《Ceo Unrivaled》


 Chapter 1 - Afterlife Decisions

    The Summers Building


    Office of the CEO - Lisa Zafira Y. Summers


    "CEO Lisa, I have cleared your entire afternoon schedule today. Your father requests your presence at the Peninsula Fine Dining Club for lunch. The reservation is done. All investor meetings are rescheduled for tomorrow."


    As warm as the sun rays reflecting on the wide horizon, the middle-aged secretary of Summers Holdings Incorporated spoke gently at the young lady sitting in the fancy office within the metropolitan of District 2.


    "My father has given me an impossible request. He wants me to get married before I turned 25! Can you set me an appointment for a blind date?" Lisa respectfully asked her secretary. She was enjoying the view of the great display of panoramic scenes through the glass wall but her romantic situation makes her anxious. For an unknown reason, she felt like she was in deep trouble. But she could not identify the cause of her emotion.


    "Yes, I will add that to your calendar of activities for this month. Shall I contact the other eligible bachelors in District 2, ma''am?" The secretary responded with the gentlest smile on her face. Just thinking about her boss being pushed by her father to enter in a relationship made her felt sympathetic. Lisa simply nodded her head and gestured for the secretary to continue her report. She took a sip of her morning coffee and stared at the sky once more.


    "All the business contracts were reviewed and the legal department is waitin-----"


    Thud!


    The gentle voice of the middle-aged woman was interrupted by the harsh sound of the cup falling on the floor and breaking in the process. Her eyes went big as blood splattered around the expensive oak table in front of her.


    "Ahhhhhhh---" The earlier composure of the secretary was replaced with a shrieked of terror! Her face quickly turned pale.


    Her eyes were still widened in shock as she stared at the young woman in disbelief. Blood started to creased down at the center of Lisa''s eyebrows. The young CEO was bleeding in the center of her forehead!


    The armchair in her seat supported her entire weight as her head abruptly leaned backward by the impact of the bullet. Her eyes were still open but there was no evidence of life on it anymore.


    The dull and lifeless gaze was staring straight at the secretary.


    "MURDER!!! AHHHHH!!! MURDER!" The horrific scream echoed across the entire floor of the spacious building.


    Various office staff and security personnel quickly responded and gathered outside the office.


    "Call the police!"


    "Call for an ambulance!"


    "Oh my gosh! What happened?"


    "Check the other building! This is from a sniper rifle!"


    Some security staff instantly ran toward the other building to check for the perpetrator.


    After several minutes, the paramedics arrived. The secretary dropped her body on the floor as her legs became limp. Such a traumatic event was too unexpected for a usual day!


    Paramedics shook their heads after another minute of examining the unresponsive body of Lisa Summers.


    "Time of death, 8:45 am." One of them mumbled as he glanced at the watch on his wrist.


    ''8:45 am'' The other wrote the time on her pad.


    CEO Lisa Zafira Y. Summers, 24, was announced dead on the spot. The cause of death was a single bullet wound on her forehead.


    With the authority coming in and out of her expensive office, nobody dared to touch anything in the crime scene. Other employees gathered near the area and the company''s operation immediately paused. Chattering started to spread while they were observing.


    "What a pity! CEO Summers is too young for her to die!"


    "She is a good boss!"


    "She is too stubborn! Security had proposed to install bulletproof glass in her office but she just shrugged their recommendation."


    "Yes, she said that she had no enemies and there is no reason for them to be anxious about her safety!"


    Some staff lamented and secretly cried for the loss of the young life with a promising future. Others feared for their safety after the incident. The entire company was quickly thrown into emotional and psychological warfare.


    The lifeless body was still on the chair as the forensic investigators took pictures in every corner of the room.


    As the slender body started to turn cold, a mysterious fog evaporated from it. Her soul slowly floated far away until it arrived at the vast clouds.


    The soul stopped a few meters away from an elder who wore nothing but a white towel on his waist. His hair was wet and it would seem like he just finished his bath.


    System!


    "The descendant of the Ye Clan. Alas, you died in sudden death! Your ancestors accumulated enough life points in the past for you to choose what you want to happen in your next life."


    Lisa Summers eyed the elder from head to foot. She was more concerned about his inappropriate outfit than her afterlife! The elder shifted his feet and gulped uncomfortably.


    "Pardon my outfit. It is still morning and well, accidents are truly unexpected! So, I am not yet dressed," the elder explained.


    Lisa sighed and finally pondered about her death. She was still planning on going on a date! But it turns out, her life already ends before she could start a relationship!


    "What are my available options?" She calmly asked the elder. Her tone has no hint of any regret.


    "As expected from a lady in the field of business... you even treated this conversation like a business proposal! Hehe, It seemed like you have unfinished goals. Well, let me see... you can choose if you want to be reborn or transmigrated," the elder answered.


    "Reborn and Transmigration? What else?" Lisa probed further.


    "It''s just the two options! What else do you want? Are expecting an entrance key to open the gates of the heaven?" The elder scowled at her insistent tone.


    "No, no... My apologies. I was just clarifying. Perhaps, a habit of mine that I have long practiced. Anyway, tell me the descriptions of my options," she stated while scanning at her surroundings.


    ''I was looking at these clouds from my office earlier. Who would have thought that I would be stepping on it now?'' She secretly thought.


    The elder gawked at her amused expression. "How did it become like a business meeting? Why do I feel like I am in a job interview now?" He scratched the back of his head and frowned.


    "Wait a moment, I will get all the descriptions of your transmigration and reborn. I don''t want to give you wrong information or else I might get fired! Humph!" The elder uttered in rush.


    He swiftly took a small gem from the cloud and closed his eyes.


    The lady waited patiently as the gem glowed brightly on the elder''s hand. After a while, the elder opened his eyes and took a deep breath.


    "Here it is. If you choose reborn, your life will restart from the very beginning. It means the infant to the adult stage. It is called a grand reset. You can have a new life out from scratch. But you have benefits! Your accumulated knowledge in business would be retained including your memories." The elder paused and looked at the reaction of Lisa.


    "I don''t want to become an infant again. Having my old memories would make it awkward to continue living with a young body. How about the second option?" CEO Lisa easily asked the elder.


    "If you choose transmigration, your spirit will transmigrate directly to a person with a damaged soul. But it is not certain of which timeline it will fall. It could be in the past, present, or future. The benefits are still the same. You will retain your business knowledge and it will merge into the skills from the owner of the body where your soul would be placed," the elder explained in detail.


    Lisa took a moment to think of her decision.


    "I have weighed the factors and risks. I am choosing transmigration. I am certain that wherever my next life is, I would still prosper," the lady firmly answered.


    "Hehehe very well then, you shall wake up and live a new life. But you must vow not to interfere in your past life. Your past identity is dead. If in case some fragments of memories in your CEO lifestyle remain, just ignore it. Punishment of death with no rebirth shall be imposed by the system if you disrupt the balance of the world." The elder stated in satisfaction.


    The clouds started to move on her feet and Lisa felt the sudden urged to sleep. Before her eyes were completely shut off, she caught a glimpse of the elder smiling genuinely at her.


    "My descendant is so smart! I am proud of her." The elder mumbled after the trace of Lisa''s soul was gone.


    ~


    In a simple apartment unit of a building near the Seventh District''s University, a girl slowly regained her consciousness. She was awakened by the itchy feeling all over her face. The first thought that came to her mind was 1st Online Tournament of District 7.


    Sofia shook her head and yawned. She had fallen asleep at her study table. A phone was connected to a cord and was still charging with a 70% battery. She slowly moved towards the bed.


    ''District 7, this place is too far from where I originally lived.'' Lisa''s soul mentally groaned and stared at the white ceiling in her room. A yawn escaped from the girl''s lips. She stared at her hands and noticed how young it looked. Slender fingers with no callous. Her nails are trimmed neatly.


    ''Online Tournament? Ahhh, I see. My new identity plays this online mobile game. Hmmm... The original soul of this body has wilted like a flower that lost its vigor. What a pity, this is due to her too much unhealthy routine.'' Lisa''s soul noted in her mind as the young girl''s body turned to a comfortable position. She closed her eyes and hugged her pillow tightly.


    As she opened her eyes again, a medium-sized digital clock glared on her bedside table.


    February 6, 2017 03:45PM


    ''Year 2017? This was 5 years ago in my previous life! So this game was recently released in this timeline. And this seventh district is holding a tournament.'' Lisa''s soul made a sudden realization and sighed. She stared at the round-shaped mirror beside the clock. The young girl''s face reflected her lack of sleep.


    Knock knock knock


    "Sofia, it''s almost 4 pm. Our night class will start soon. Are ready to go?" A voice casually called her.


    "Sofia Blanca D. Su," she softly  muttered her new name as if internalizing it in her head.


    "Yes!" She responded making sure that her voice was loud enough for the person outside her room to hear. Then, Sofia jumped out of her bed and quickly unplugged her phone. She looked around and did not find any school supplies inside the room.


    "Claire, have you seen my bag?" Sofia asked as she pushed open her door. All the memories of the young girl''s body with Lisa''s soul have merged perfectly.


    "You left it on my locker. Hurry up! We have less than 15 minutes to walk." Claire responded and sauntered towards the main road. Sofia stared at her friend''s retreating figure.


    ''The original owner of this body really paid much attention to the mobile game and neglected her studies. I should be worried about her grades!'' She secretly made a face palm before walking in haste to catch up with her friend.


    "Most of the squads are looking for tank users. Which team do you want to apply to?" Claire asked her. This young lady was also like her. She was hooked up with playing.


    "Claire, how about we don''t apply?" Sofia suddenly suggested.


    "What do you mean? Like we will create our squad? But there are just two of us! We already planned to submit our application today." Claire protested.


    "It''s okay. We can find members to fill in the lacking role. We only need three more members. You can play the assassin role. I will play the tank. What we lacked are range users such as marksman, mage, and support. And many students are available for these vacancies. We just need to find a good player." Sofia analyzed.


    "You are serious in this? We are not famous, nobody would join us!" Claire was skeptical of the idea. In her mind, Sofia was overestimating their ability.


    "I am dead serious. I don''t want to take orders from others. Imagine, if we submit our application, we need to follow their rules! But if we create our squad, then nobody would boss us around!" Sofia said to convince her friend.


    Claire looked at her for a long time, "Something is wrong with you today!" The girl blurted out after noticing how her friend spoke.


    "Yes, I haven''t drunk my coffee." Sofia bitterly chuckled while she imagined the last moment of her previous life.


    "We did stay until 4 am last night. Even I also wants to have some coffee now." Claire yawned.


    "Let''s go and grab some instant coffee first. So we will just post a notice for the role vacancy of our squad and wait for the applicants. I will put our contact numbers." Sofia continued and her friend absentmindedly nodded her head.

 Chapter 2 - A Brothers Contempt

    "If only I saw the announcement that our class was rescheduled, I could still continue sleeping right now!" Claire complained after knowing that night classes would start the following week due to ongoing renovations of their classroom.


    They were sitting in the school cafeteria finishing their coffee. Some students gave them a strange look. Seeing someone drinking a coffee at past 4 pm was rather unusual for teenagers.


    "It doesn''t matter. This is still a productive day. We have posted our squad announcements. And let''s wait here for interested students to contact us." Sofia took a sip of her coffee and examined her bag. She could not even remember when was the last time she touched her bag.


    "You look so excited opening your bag!" Claire commented.


    "Ah, it''s nothing. I just want to see what''s in here. By the way, we should change our in-game name. Since we are aiming to be part of the pro scene. We must use something meaningful and cool names." Sofia put her bag away. She took her phone and stared at her screen that was displaying her profile name - tank17.


    "What do you have in mind?" Claire inquired without looking at her. The lady was already focused on her profile also.


    "You are an assassin. You can use something terrifying. For example, Almighty Killer." Sofia brushed her short hair using her fingers.


    "Yes, that is a good name! I will get my in-game name changed now!" Claire approved. She swiftly tapped the editor settings on her profile and deleted the default name she used - assassin_00. She then typed her new name - Almighty Killer.


    "I will edit mine as CEO UNRIVALED." Sofia chuckled as she also updated her profile information. Her friend remained silent while taking all her daily rewards.


    A man suddenly approached the two ladies while they were so engrossed in their phone.


    "I have noticed your post for squad members. My brother told me that he would apply for the marksman role."


    Claire looked up and recognized the man. He was one of her classmates in P.E but in a different class.


    "Where is your brother then? If he wants the role then he should directly come and talk to us." Sofia told the man.


    "He is still in his last class. It will end at 4:30 pm." The man answered and shifted his foot, a habit he does when he is nervous.


    "How about you, Clark? Are you not playing?" Claire offered a friendly smile at him.


    "I am playing mage but I still need to practice my skills. Joining tournaments is probably too early for me." He shyly responded.


    "It''s okay. This tournament is not an individual battle. As long as you have the general knowledge of the game and the map, we can come up with the strategy of how to improve our weakness through teamwork." Sofia finally placed her phone down and paid attention to the man.


    "Sof, this is Clark, We are classmates in my P.E at section 3 class. Clark, this is Sofia, we have a night class together and we also live in the same building. It is her idea to create a squad for the tournament." Claire took the initiative to introduce the two.


    "Pleased to meet you, Clark." Sofia stood from her seat and extended her arms for a handshake.


    "Yes, thank you!" The man firmly grabbed her hands despite the loud sound of his heartbeat and smiled at her. He did not also understand why he felt nervous approaching them.


    "So, you would be a mage, Clark and your brother would be the marksman. We need one more member to register in the tournament." Claire beamed.


    "You can''t just randomly pick a member!" Clark scowled. He knew that the application for joining some existing squad was not easy. The player must show off their skills and talent to prove if they would be worthy to join the team. Yet, these ladies just told him that he was already part of their squad!


    "Didn''t you hear what Sofia just said? It''s about teamwork! Besides, she really plays tank well." Claire giggled.


    "Alright. But don''t blame me. I''m not really good." The man shrugged and yielded. But Sofia''s expression turned dark after hearing his response.


    ''Don''t blame him?'' She gritted her teeth while replaying what the man said in her head.


    "Clark, you must fix your mindset, or else I won''t force you to join the squad. Right now, we are taking a gamble using our instincts. There are full of uncertainties due to the lack of experience in the pro scene. But if you have that kind of thinking, you may just use that as an excuse to slack off and pull us down! I don''t need your lack of self-esteem and disinterest." Sofia quickly criticized him.


    The man stood straight, ''This Sofia is so mature. I just play the game for fun but she is so uptight and serious about it!'' He made a quick mental assessment of the lady before he spoke his response. "I don''t lack self-esteem. It''s just that I play the game for entertainment. It is fun to play. So I don''t see it in a serious way!."


    "Hah. Fun is one thing! Think of it like this way. This gadget is a liability." Sofia paused and waved her mobile phone in front of Clark. "Your phone needs to be charged to operate. Charging goes to your electricity bill. Playing a game requires having the internet open. It''s another bill for an internet connection. Most importantly, we spend our time. And do you know what it meant to spend our time is, Clark?" Sofia looked at him straight in the eye. Her expression resembled that of her past life as the CEO of the Summers Company.


    "I don''t know! I don''t pay electricity bills and my parents are paying for my internet connection. I am still young, I am not responsible for paying those! Geez..." Clark trembled. He felt like the lady was an elder scolding him directly for his negligence of private responsibility.


    "That''s too bad if you don''t know what time is! Then, I will tell you, time is gold. It is equivalent to wasting gold if you waste your time. This is the most precious thing you will ever have next to your life. And since we like to spend time playing our phone, let''s just convert the liability and make an asset out of it. We need to invest in our skills and win big tournaments. That way, we can earn big profits. But currently, we are at the bottom... so we will take one step at a time to achieve our goals." Sofia rubbed her fingers and clasped them together.


    Her response rendered the man speechless, ''Time is gold? Did she just saw a quote on social media? But how did playing a game become assets and liability?'' His mouth gaped and his eyes blinked rapidly.


    Even Claire was dumbfounded by Sofia''s reasoning. She looked at the lady with admiration, ''I never thought of it like that. It''s incredible that Sofia had made me realize these things! My parents would be proud of me for having a friend with good influence. Hehehe''


    "Did you understand what I said?" Sofia added after not hearing any response from Clark. The man took a deep breath and clenched his fist tightly.


    "I understand what you said but I don''t get the point of saying these things to me. My parents are rich! These electricity and internet bills do not concern me. I don''t know about my brother but he has experience in gaming contests. That must be the reason why he wants to join your squad to play for the district tournament." Clark finally managed to voice out his arguments.


    "Heh! Your parents are rich. That''s fine but not impressive. Let me tell you this, why don''t you aim for something like surpassing their richness through playing games? Now that would be a remarkable feat!" Sofia smirked.


    ''Surpassing my parents'' richness!'' A spark of zeal was suddenly ignited in the man''s eyes. A different emotion stirred at his chest.


    As Sofia observed his facial expression, she leaned her face on the table. She mentally screamed for victory. The lady knew that Clark was now convinced.


    "Okay, I will practice my skills and surpass my parents soon." Clark beamed a different aura.


    "That''s the spirit. Now, we need one more last player." Sofia mumbled and looked outside the window. Some students are forming groups and others are busy playing outdoor games. ''I used to play volleyball but now, it seems that my interest is no longer in that game.'' She mentally commented after seeing the empty volleyball court on the field


    In a distance, another guy stood from his seat and walked closer to their table.


    "Sorry to interrupt, I didn''t mean to listen to your conversation. I am Joey on section 4. And your discussion sounds interesting. I also play the game so I want to apply and fill in the lacking member. I can always adjust to whatever role the squad needed." The guy politely told them. He was also deeply moved by Sofia''s point of spending time.


    "Oh, nice! Joey, I know you! You are part of the basketball team, right?" Claire grinned and greeted the man. His tall height and striking face would make any student pay attention to him.


    "Ah, yes. I used to play basketball but my legs were injured. I don''t play anymore." Joey confirmed.


    "That''s too bad. Sorry to hear that, man." Clark told the guy with a sympathetic gaze.


    "It''s okay. My father was the coach so, I joined the team," the guy smiled bitterly.


    "I see. I am Sofia, I will do the tank role. This lady is Claire, she will play an assassin. Then, Clark plays the mage. His brother will take the marksman. Since you can adjust, then fighter or support would be yours." Sofia directly explained their arrangements.


    "Yes, do you want to practice now?" Joey eagerly inquired.


    "Let''s have a meeting first. It''s about time that Clark''s brother would join us. Let''s just wait for him first." Sofia said and gestured the men to take a seat.


    "I didn''t place a name of the squad yet because you might want to give your ideas. So the agenda of our meeting right now would be to come up with our group name. And let''s arrange our vacant time since we are in different classes and our schedule varies." Sofia continued as her members listened attentively.


    "The first district tournament would be on the 14th of this month. It is Valentine''s Event at our place which means its a big event, not just a tournament. We only have a week to prepare and synchronized our gameplay before the big day. Daily practice is essential but the school work must not be neglected. We need great time management." She emphasized and the rest nodded their head in agreement.


    While they were discussing, Clark''s brother finally showed up.


    "Oh, that''s my brother! Bro, over here!" Clark waved his hands on him.


    "What are you doing here, Clark? I thought you went home already!" The man asked curiously after seeing his brother.


    "AH, I will also join the squad. They would let me play as a mage." Clark responded with enthusiasm. But his brother''s expression turned sullen.


    "What did you say? You will be the mage? Is this a joke!? You don''t have the skills!" His brother frowned and looked disgusted of the idea that he would be playing together with his brother.


    "I did tell them about that earlier, Bro. I know my skills are low." Clark felt dejected.


    "There''s no need to talk about skills right now. If you have doubts about your brother''s skills, you can just play with other squad members." Sofia glared at the newcomer.


    "I don''t have doubts! He can''t really play the game properly!" Clark''s brother argued.


    "It''s fine. This is not an individual game. What he lacks, the other members can supply. Do you want to join?" Sofia crossed her arms over her chest and questioned the man.


    "Ha! Why would I join you? There is no way I am joining a team of a loser!" Clark''s brother told her in contempt before the man walked out of the cafeteria.


    "I feel bad. My brother is really a good marksman. And he had experienced in pro scene." Clark commented as he pursed his lips and stared at the retreating figure of the man.


    "I also feel bad that you have to deal with that kind of attitude from your brother! His attitude won''t make his ship sail farther from the shore." Sofia meaningfully mumbled as she finished her coffee. She did not expect to see such degree of rudeness amongst siblings.

 Chapter 3 - The Chronos Squad

    "Well, that didn''t go well as planned." Joey awkwardly commented after the unexpected rejection from Clark''s brother.


    "Sorry about that. My brother is a good man but maybe, he just wants to have an assurance of winning members for the tournament. He actually knows you in the game, Sofia. " Clark admitted with an apologetic eyes.


    "What do you mean?" Sofia asked with one eyebrow raising at him.


    "He sometimes watches your gameplay. Well, he admired that you can play a tank role. He said that it is rare to see your unique grasps during a team fight especially when ganking and jungle stealing." Clark answered.


    "Oh? Well, I have spent sleepless nights to master the tank role," she mumbled. ''Even the original owner''s soul was gone because of that unhealthy routine,'' she mentally added.


    "So we still need a marksman. Joey, do you have a friend who plays the game? Most of the squads were already done with their registration. If we don''t find another member, we might not be able to send an application for the tournament today." Claire turned her attention to Joey.


    "I do have friends that play this game. But they have stopped attending school. I will try to contact one of them if it''s okay?" Joey reluctantly replied.


    "This is a district tournament. It''s not required for all the squad members to be at school. Try to contact them." Sofia encouraged the guy.


    "Okay, wait a moment I will call him now..." Joey said and walked a few distances away from them.


    "While waiting, let''s plan our schedule. I only have night classes and it will start next week. So I am free anytime this week. How about you, rich kid?" Sofia glanced at Clark and playfully asked him.


    "I have a class for the entire morning. I can play around 3 pm and at night." Clark chuckled. The awkward air around them quickly left and was replaced by serious discussions.


    "I can play except Saturday. That is my P.E class and I am always tired after P.E." Claire stated.


    "We need to play a lot for this week. And then, after the tournament, we can rest." Sofia sighed and felt a bit frustrated. The unhealthy routine of sleeping so late at night needed to be changed but with their lack of time, they need to hustle.


    "Guys, I have Stephen as our marksman." Joey returned after making a call to his friend.


    "Stephen? Is he the one who was rumored that was involved with a gang?" Clark whispered cautiously.


    "Yes, he was. But he is not really a member of the gang. Anyway, he decided to stop attending class last 2 months ago and his grades are failing miserably. So, he is no longer a student." Joey placed his phone back in his pocket and looked at Sofia with an expectant gaze. He was not sure if the lady would allow his friend to join the squad. But it was certain for him that if he can make it, the man would be overjoyed.


    "Let''s cast away all prejudices and discrimination. As long as your friend can play the role, then, let''s have him play with us. Where is he? It''s better if we meet him personally." Sofia asserted.


    "Yes, he can meet us anytime. His house is just two blocks away from our school?" Joey answered.


    "Oh, then let''s go to the convenience store. Tell him to meet us there." Sofia picked a new meeting place and everybody agreed.


    ~


    The convenience store was packed with other students hanging out. Clark immediately docked his head as he also saw his brother amongst the crowd. But it was too late. The latter had seen him already.


    "Guys, look! That would be one of the squads that we will be facing next week!" His brother announced loudly and pointed in their direction.


    "It looks like your brother has found a new squad. Good for him." Claire glanced at the group before picking a pack of cookies on the display goods. Sofia did not bother responding and just went to the refreshment sections.


    As she grabbed a bottle of soda, Joey cringed behind her." You just drank a hot coffee! Now, you wanted to drink a cold soda. That''s ugh!" The boy voiced out his worries.


    "The coffee was no longer hot when I drank it. And I need sugar to stay awake." She casually responded and dismissed Joey''s weird expression.


    In the magazine aisle of the convenience store, she caught a glimpse of the newspaper headlines. It was about the murder of one of the most successful CEO in District 2. She momentarily paused and read the content.


    While she was reading, Stephen sauntered inside the store. The noise quickly muted as students avoid eye contact with him.


    "Bro!" Stephen casually called Joey.


    "Hey, bro! This is the squad." Joey gestured to his group. Both Claire and Clark nodded slightly.


    "Hello! I am Stephen. Thank you for inviting me to join your squad." The man announced loudly. The rest of the students inside the store was bewildered but remained silent.


    "Hi, I am Sofia. Joey recommended you to join us and we are lacking one member to finalize our registration..." She told the newcomer and placed the newspaper back at the stand.


    "Great! I do want to play in this upcoming tournament but there are no available squads that would let me join. Perhaps, it''s because of my background." Stephen scratched his nose and felt uncomfortable as the lady looked at him closely at his arm where a tattoo was placed.


    "Your ink looks good." Sofia casually said before she went to the counter and paid for her bottle of soda. She remembered wanting to get a tattoo on her previous life.


    "Thanks!" Stephen absentmindedly uttered his response.


    The group took the most corner table of the convenience store and started their discussions.


    "So, what do you think for our squad name?" Sofia asked the members.


    "I was moved by what you have said earlier about wasting time is like wasting gold. I would admit that this is the reason why I aspire to join this squad. So I think we can name our squad with it." Joey suggested.


    "Chronos." Clark softly mumbled.


    "Yes, the Greek term for time is also good!" Claire agreed after hearing Clark''s sound.


    "The Chronos Squad. It''s not bad. How about you, Stephen?" Sofia asked. Her eyes darted back to the tattoo on his arm.


    "I don''t have anything in mind." Stephen shrugged.


    "Alright, let''s name our group by it then!"


    The group logged in to their individual accounts synchronically.


    Sofia tapped the button with the squad feature tab on the game and created one. She then searched the gaming ID of the three men and added them.


    Squad Profile


    Squad Members (5/50)


    Lobby: 5 members online


    The Chronos Squad - CEO UNRIVALED - Sofia


    The Chronos Squad - Almighty Killer - Claire


    The Chronos Squad - Lethal Prey - Joey


    The Chronos Squad - Dangerous Predator - Stephen


    The Chronos Squad - Amateur Mage - Clark


    After their squad was created, they quickly went to the forum for the application of the district tournament. In just a matter of a few minutes, their online registration was completed.


    "Wow, there are too many squad participants!" Clark sounded after seeing the hundreds of participants on the list.


    "Yes, it''s because the minimum number of members of a squad is only 5. So many groups like us joined the competition." Claire responded.


    "Don''t think about it. Joey and Stephen, when can you play for practice this week?" Sofia asked the two of them.


    "I can play anytime. I am a free man!" Stephen quickly answered.


    "After quitting basketball this year, I have also free time..." Joey replied.


    "Alright, tomorrow at 3 pm, let''s start our practice. For now, we can just head home and rest. Let''s recharge as much energy as we can for the next days to come. Also, do not neglect your school work." Sofia commanded.


    "I''m okay with that. I have nothing to do! Hehehe" Stephen agreed. Clark and Joey gestured a thumbs up while Claire nodded her head.


    "Before we go, let''s all exchange our personal contact numbers for easy communication. If something came up, do not hesitate to contact me and the other team members. Although we are still strangers in general, we should be open to one another." Sofia conveniently handed her phone to Stephen for him to set his contact details.


    After they settled everything, Sofia and Claire left the convenience store first. Clark stayed with Joey and Stephen at the table.


    "Ah... I am excited to play next week." Stephen stretched his legs comfortably.


    "Will you be fine, Clark? Your brother seemed to throw some sinister looked at you." Joey mumbled while glancing at the other table.


    "Hehe, I am okay. He is probably concerned that I hang out with you guys. If you know what I mean." Clark sheepishly slumped his body on his chair.


    "Oh... I see. Your brother does not like me?" Stephen looked outside and waved at some passerby he got acquainted with.


    "Yeah, well... your reputation does make you unlikable. You know that." Clark boldly declared.


    Before Stephen could speak his response, his phone pinged as he received a message.


    ~ From: Sofia


    Since you have so much time, work on your failing grades.


    Stephen frowned after reading her message. It would seem like there was an air of sarcasm and a direct order from her message. He pressed the reply and type his response.


    ~ To: Sofia


    I am not aware that you could be nosy with my personal life. So you want to intervene with my personal business, yeah?


    Stephen smirked but he was not particularly upset by what she just texted. Strangely, he was looking forward to her reply. Another message quickly followed after he sent his response.


    ~ From Sofia:


    PPL. Pitiful Personal Life. Now work on your failing grades.


    ''This woman has guts!'' Stephen thought but still sent her a reply.


    ~ To Sofia:


    Aye.


    (Yes.)


    He then tapped at his contacts and edited the name of Sofia. A smile formed on his lips after seeing the new name on his phone. Nosy - +xx19376202224


    Joey noticed his friend''s amused expression but did not point it out.


    Suddenly, Stephen looked at him and asked, "Let me borrow your notes from the start of when I left attending our class."


    "You plan to return to school after two months of not showing up? Wait, don''t tell me you have developed a crush? Is it Claire or is it Sofia?" Joey gawked at his friend.


    "I could pick them both. One is the quiet type while the other is so noisy. I don''t have any complaints of their personalities." Stephen joked and Clark automatically looked at the man with wide eyes and disbelief.


    "It''s just a joke that he always does." Joey patted Clark on his shoulder after seeing his surprised face.


    "Uhmm, having many crushes is not also bad. And Stephen looked attractive." Clark recovered his composure.


    "Do you have a crush on me?" Stephen playfully asked him just as he had calmed down from his initial shock.


    "Ahh... stop teasing the man. You look like you are in good mood. Don''t mind him, Clark. He is just like that if he is in a great mood." Joey shook his head and told the man. He then grabbed some notebooks from his bag and handed them to Stephen.


    Stephen did not speak anymore. He scanned the notes and took some pictures on the pages. He then pushed them back to Joey, "Thanks! See ya tomorrow." He grinned and stood from his seat.


    After Stephen left the two, Clark finally breath in relief. "What a strange guy," he mumbled.


    "He has an easy-going mindset. Anyway, I overheard earlier that you''re not so good in the game. Let me test your skill in a one-on-one match!" Joey suggested.


    "It''s pointless. Let''s just play with random players." Clark dismissed his idea. He knew that his skill is below average.


    "Ah, nevermind! Sofia may have plans. Let''s just wait for tomorrow. I''m going home now." Joey suddenly changed his mind. He also realized that one-on-one matches would not be beneficial for Clark.


    "Okay, see you then." Clark waved his hands. He took another deep breath and had a dreamlike expression, ''Surpassing my parents'' money.''


    [A/N: 8/24/2021 Character Profile Update - Check paragraph comments for the Chronos squad info.]


    Sofia


    Claire


    Stephen


    Clark


    Joey

 Chapter 4 - Early Game

    "Clark, your brother told me that you are hanging out with an outcast of your school! Is it true? That could be dangerous for you!" The stern voice from Clark''s father greeted him after he entered their home. He sighed in defeat after realizing that his brother had told his father.


    "Dad, I have met someone interesting today..." Clark told the man. He purposely invaded the question about hanging with an outcast. He knew that his father was sensitive but also reasonable.


    "Young man, you better picked your friends properly. Otherwise, they might put you in trouble and our reputation would be affected." His father said in a warning tone. Clark could sense that the man was angry but he was trying to hide his anger.


    "Yes, I am aware, dad..." He mumbled and walked straight to his room.


    "Since you are aware, then stop hanging out with such friends. Your brother told me that you would join the district tournament for an online game. Do you think you can win? Even your brother who plays online for most of his time is skeptical about your decision. People might just criticize you!" The voice of his father followed him but the old man just sat in front of the sofa. He was busy reading his company reports through his laptop.


    Clark joined his father after changing his clothes. "Dad, this person I met, she talks about assets and liabilities. She is probably the same age as me but her views on gaming are too mature... She kind of reminded me how mom talks," he confessed.


    The old man finally looked at his son in the eye, "Assets and Liabilities?" He blankly stared at Clark while waiting for the boy to continue.


    "Yes, yes! She told me that my mobile phone is somewhat a liability. It needed to be charged and would directly consume electricity. And if I play the game, the internet connection would be an additional bill." Clark paused as his eyes darted on the graphs that his father was reading from his laptop.


    "That is a good analysis that your age should hear. After all, we have provided you everything which makes you not aware of these responsibilities." The old man commented and returned his attention to the company report.


    "She also said that wasting time is like wasting gold." Clark finished.


    "That is a piece of wise advice for a teenager. I think I have heard of that words before. Oh right! The secretary of Summers Company was interviewed on tv earlier today. The CEO was assassinated and in her interview, she does say that she would not forget the teachings of her CEO. I think that was the same words," his father assumed.


    "AH, I didn''t see the news. Anyway, this is why I joined the tournament. Dad, in the future I will surpass you." Clark smiled innocently.


    "Silly, you will inherit all of these when you grow up. Why would you need to surpass me?" The old man laughed at his idea.


    "Because it would be a remarkable feat..." Clark repeated the words of Sofia.


    "Alright, I look forward to that day that my son would surpass me. Just be sure that no one is taking advantage of you," the old man choked his words and become teary-eyed.


    "Yes, I will. Dad, I need to rest early. Since the tournament would be next week, we need to constantly practice." Clark told his father and walked towards his room. He thought that it would be hard to convince his father to let him play the tournament. But seeing that the old man did not speak any objection at him, it meant he approved of his decision.


    Meanwhile, Stephen planned on burning the midnight oil reading the notes on his phone. He glanced at the time on his and a thought suddenly came to his mind. He quickly composed a text message.


    ~ To: Nosy


    I''m bored. Play one match with me.


    He waited for a response but nothing appeared on his phone. He tried to read on the notes but he could not concentrate. Five minutes passed by, Stephen composed another text message.


    ~ To: Nosy


    Don''t ignore me! Just one match to relax my brain. It''s hurting from reading notes.


    His phone finally pinged as he got a reply.


    ~ From: Nosy


    Go, send invite.


    Stephen grinned and quickly logged in to his account. He went to the game lobby and looked for Sofia''s name. He clicked at the invite button on her profile which was also accepted in just a matter of seconds.


    "What are you doing?" He used his mic and asked Sofia.


    The match timer was still playing on their phone as the game tried to give them random allies.


    "I''m sleeping." Her response came out as a whisper.


    "It''s still past 10:25 pm. You sleep so early!" Stephen tone down his voice.


    "Yeah, the civilizations of pimples on my face are growing rapidly because of lack of sleep." Sofia pointed out. Stephen could also hear a yawn in between her words.


    "Ah... now I felt guilty for disturbing your beauty rest!" He playfully commented.


    "You should be. But then again, this civilization of pimples is already living in my face before you had disturbed me. So, there''s not much of an impact. Pick your marksman!" She dictated after seeing that the man was about to get the fighter role.


    "Which type of marksman do you want? Archer or Gunner?" Stephen chuckled and changed his role.


    "Whichever you want to use..." Sofia answered. She then saw the archer character next to her tank.


    They both went silent after their characters were transported to the map.


    "Where are you going?" Stephen asked her after watching the tank moved towards the middle lane. He was confused as there was already an ally mage taking the lane.


    "Just follow me..." she murmured and went past through the river of the map. He finally understood that the tank was aiming for the opponent''s jungle.


    "We are stealing their jungle?" Stephen asked with an amused tone. It was his first time playing with Sofia and he did not expect her to be that aggressive. A burst of excitement surged on his chest.


    "Are you scared to steal their jungle?" The rich laughter followed as she playfully provoked him.


    "Oh, no you don''t tell me something like that!" Her provocation was effective and his marksman quickly moved towards her tank.


    The two of them attacked the jungle monsters without the enemy noticing their movements.


    "Luckily, our enemies are not paying attention to their jungle..." Sofia mumbled when they easily got the buffs. Stephen could hear the rustling sound of her pillows as she adjusted her body into a more comfortable position.


    "Let''s go to the bottom lane and gank their marksman..." Sofia stated after a couple of minutes had passed on their match.


    The two characters moved in haste while the unaware opponent in their bottom lane was killing their creeps.


    (A/N: If you don''t know this term... Creeps are the small warrior NPC equally divided to aid each team during the battle. Sometimes called minions. When killed, gold coins or EXP would be rewarded to the character.)


    Sofia dashed her character forward and stunned the unaware opponent in the process. A quarter of its HP was automatically deducted.


    (A/N: HP stands for Health Points, which means the life of the in-game character.)


    Stephen made a follow-up attack and launched a barrage of arrows before their target could recover. The opponent could not even move its character until its HP bar went to zero.


    First Blood!


    The system quickly announced the first kill in their match.


    "Nice! The stunned effect on your skillset seemed to be longer than the other tank characters." Stephen smiled while they started attacking the initial tower of their enemy in the bottom lane. The two managed to push until they destroyed the secondary tower of their opponent.


    "Yes, it''s longer." Sofia mumbled and glanced at the map. She noticed that their support and fighter were also at a disadvantage in the top lane. Three enemies were trying to destroy their initial tower.


    "Let''s join their clash," her tank sprinted towards to top lane while Steven''s marksman character just teleported directly in the direction.


    As she arrived, the signal to launch their attack quickly appeared on their screen.


    Her tank caught the three opponents as she activated the ultimate. The allies next to her did not waste time and produced the damage. Within less than a minute all the opponents were slain by them.


    "Nice set!"


    "Great set!"


    The support and fighter commended in their quick chat after slaying the three opponents.


    "Push." Sofia responded as she stared at their score. 4-0


    Just as they moved towards the middle lane, another notification showed on their phone.


    Their enemy conceded.


    Victory!


    It had just been less than 5 minutes but the enemy already surrendered.


    "If we can make our opponents surrender during the tournament, it would be nice!" Sofia smiled as she stayed in the lobby to collect her rewards.


    "One more game?" Stephen offered. He felt the need to play more after the game ended too early.


    "Finished reading your notes. I''m sleeping." Sofia answered.


    "Ah, I want to play one more match!" He insisted.


    "You can do that later. It''s not like this game will be gone." She reasoned out.


    "True. Alright, good night to you. I think we can win next week." Stephen said.


    "Hmmn, we can. Bye." Sofia quickly disconnected from her mic and tried to log out from the game.


    Unbeknownst to them, one of their ally who was playing the fighter role was streaming their gameplay live on his social media. He was one of the popular streamers with plenty of followers.


    Various players from different countries and districts who were able to watch them quickly reacted and started talking about it.


    "The marksman and tank are duos!"


    "Yes, they have the same squad name."


    "It''s my first time to see that Chronos squad. Are they streamers too? I''ve searched their names but I could not find any result."


    "Oh, their squad has only 5 members! They are new."


    "Maybe they are veterans? I hope they streamed their gameplay also."


    "What veterans?! This game was just launched for less than a year!"


    While the social media was talking non-stop about them, the squad notifications also pinged on Sofia''s phone before she could turn it off. She was staring at the abnormal number of applicants that wanted to join their squad!


    "What is happening?" Sofia wondered but did not accept anyone on the application list.


    "Random matches do not seem to give us improvements if our enemies would directly concede. I need to link to another squad and asked them for a practice game. Squad vs Squad." Sofia made a realization after their match.


    She drafted a proposal and sent a private message to the top 5 squads in the global ranking. All of the four squads ignored her message but she received a response from EZgaming.


    Sofia promptly opened her chatbox.


    EZgaming Trex: sup? Squad vs Squad this afternoon?


    It quickly dawned upon her that this squad was in a different timezone!


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: not tonight. SEA server...


    EZgaming Trex: Ooops, not the same server. It''s EU server.


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: My bad. Apologies!


    EZgaming Trex: Ok. Try checking FAB_Gamers. They are in SEA server.


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: Copy. Thanks!


    Sofia searched the FAB_Gamers and sent her proposal in a direct message to their leader. She also included the time her team would be available.


    FAB_Gamers WINS: Squad vs Squad. sure! 3 pm tomorrow. Send member status?


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: Just average skills. One is not so good yet. I appreciate it if you can arrange the best gamers on your team though.


    FAB_Gamers WINS: are you sure? your members may cry if they are up with these beasts.


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: We want to test our skills as a squad.


    FAB_Gamers WINS: ok. I saw your gameplay earlier in live. So, I will choose the best members of my team. I''m sure they would be interested in fighting against you. See ya!


    Sofia blinked her eyes as the online status of the other person in the chat turned dull.


    "It was on live?" she mumbled and finally understood why there were so many applicants on her squad.


    After a while, she decided to place her phone on the table and head back to sleep.

 Chapter 5 - The Hidden Intentions Behind The Actions

    The following day, Sofia received another message from FAB_Gamers WINS. The squad leader sent her that list of the party members that would be fighting against her squad for their practice match.


    She looked at their names in delight and told the squad members about the arrangement.


    "No way!!! You have an affiliation with the FAB_Gamers squad? Man, they are famous! They live in district 6 and their members are treated like gods in this game!" Joey exclaimed out of excitement.


    The group were hanging out in her small apartment and were waiting for their opponents to go online.


    "Not really, we just talked last night and their leader agreed of a practice match arrangement today..." Sofia told him with her casual tone. Although she had spent time playing, she was not so familiar with who was famous in the game.


    "Guys, let''s take a picture!" Claire interrupted and all of them paused before smiling in front of her camera.


    "What?! Are you sure? Their leader is the guy with the in-game name WINS. Is it really him?" Clark also joined their hype. He was an avid fan of the FAB_Gamers squad and he almost knew all their members.


    "It''s like this. Stephen and I played a random match last night. It turns out that one of our allies was a streamer and our gameplay was streamed live on his social media. It was a quick match but their leader saw it. So he agreed to have a practice match with our squad." Sofia explained without thinking too much about it.


    "Oh, boy!!! We are so lucky! To think that it is the Fab_Gamers squad that has agreed to practice with us. This is too unrealistic!" Clark eyed Joey as he grinned from ear to ear.


    "Wait, you played last night without inviting me? That is so unfair! You should have included me, right?" Claire questioned with a domineering tone. She did not even bother to conceal the jealousy in her voice.


    "Well, I was already asleep when Stephen texted me to play. It''s just one match." Sofia patted her head and smiled apologetically.


    "Who is your best friend now? Since when are you so close with that Stephen?" Claire dramatically looked down.


    The man in question just chuckled and did not say anything.


    "Eh? We are in one team now. Don''t be jealous." Clark stated.


    "Yes, Clark is right. Don''t be jealous, Claire." Joey grinned.


    "Alright, guys, their lineup is already complete. Let''s go to the lobby and wait for the invite. Be sure to learn from this practice." Sofia instructed and the group turned their attention to their phone.


    The match invite was quick and all their opponents were silent. Their character quickly appeared on their base.


    Joey moved his character to the top lane while Clark went to the middle lane. Claire started to farm in the jungle. Sofia and Stephen went towards the bottom lane to clear the wave of enemy creeps.


    On their opponent''s side, nobody was handling the middle lane. Their assassin was also farming in the jungle while the mage was facing against Joey. Their fighter was on Stephen and Sofia''s lane. The marksman and tank were missing.


    "Be careful of an ambush!" Claire was the first to notice that the marksman and tank were missing.


    Just as she clicked her warning, the notification of first blood followed to show up on their screen. Their mage was killed by the FAB_Gamers marksman and tank within the first minute of the match!


    "Sorry." Clark could only mumble while waiting for his character to be resurrected.


    "It''s okay." His teammates said in chorus.


    "OH DARN!" Claire gritted her teeth when the jungle monster that she was trying to kill got last hit by the opponent''s marksman! On top of that, her HP was almost gone. With the single hit from the opponent''s tank, her character was also slain!


    2-0


    The difference between their gold and exp from their enemy made a huge gap. The two deaths quickly placed them on the disadvantage.


    "They are good! Really good!" Claire gulped and joined Joey on the top lane.


    Another wave of creeps was spawned and Clark attempted to push the middle lane to destroy the initial tower.


    But their enemy was quick! The moment their creeps were cleared by Clark''s mage, they would appear and attack the mage.


    As minutes passed, Sofia quietly observed their situation. The towers were still even but the gap in their gold was too concerning. Their score was already 4-0. One death from their assassin and three deaths from their mage.


    "Don''t die." She softly mumbled towards Stephen before her tank left their lane and hurriedly went to the middle lane.


    Stephen nodded his head and understood what she meant. She will be guarding their mage instead of his marksman!


    Clark continued to pursue his lane despite the number of his deaths. Although he felt the burden on his shoulder every time the enemy kills his character. He does not know where else to go.


    ~


    In the FAB_ Gamers Training room, the players started to complain.


    "This match is too boring! Why did WINS hook us up with these noobs?" the marksman of their team groaned.


    "Didn''t you see the live stream last night? That CEO UNRIVALED player tank was quite good!" Their mage spoke softly.


    "Ah, I was asleep last night! Let me test if this enemy tank is really worthy to be our opponent," the marksman quickly moved towards the middle lane without waiting for their tank.


    His fingers were about to click his skills and launch a sneak attack but the button suddenly turned gray! His character was silenced!


    Before he could recover, the resurrecting countdown already appeared on his screen.


    "What?!!" he stared blankly at his phone. He could not comprehend how his character died. The marksman was killed by Clark''s mage!


    His ally mage shook his head and whispered, "WINS did warn us to be careful in jungle stealing and ganking."


    Ganking! The dumbfounded marksman finally understood what happened. He had assumed that their enemy mage and tank were on the middle lane. But in fact, there were not only two players on the mid. The moment CEO UNRIVALED started her rotation, the assassin also followed! This is why his character was silenced and was stunned successively. Then the mage activated his ultimate to finish his HP!


    "Not bad..." The player using the FAB_Gamers marksman muttered and his face turned serious. With his death, their initial middle tower was also destroyed!


    One single death but it was crucial for the entire team. The Chronos squad managed to turn over their gold earnings as the enemy jungle was also stolen by them.


    "You are too reckless!" The tank beside him murmured coldly after noticing that their jungle monsters were gone.


    Just as the marksman was about to speak his response, their mage was also slain by the Chronos mage.


    "They are on the top lane!" the player of the mage quickly announced but it was too late. Their initial tower on the top lane was also destroyed!


    "Our gold is already behind!" their assassin prompted.


    It was 4-2. But because of the loss of their towers, the gold gap was completely overturned.


    "AHhh! Help me in the bottom lane!" the FAB_Gamers fighter quickly retreated. He urged his allies after seeing that the Chronos tank and assassin were joining the marksman ganking against him.


    Another minute passed and all the initial towers of FAB_Gamers were destroyed. They started to feel panic after realizing that the Chronos squad was getting an upper hand against them.


    "Which lane are they pushing?" the fighter asked. He was confused since all their initial tower was gone. He was not sure which lane he should focus on guarding.


    "Their rotation is abnormal! Wait, they are back in the middle lane! Come!" the marksman immediately called.


    His character stood behind the tower while waiting for his allies. But CEO UNRIVALED dashed inside the tower and Claire''s assassin suddenly leaped towards him to snatched him out. As the FAB_Gamers'' marksman was suspended in the air, the arrows of the Chronos marksman quickly followed and drained his HP for the second time.


    The overall score became 4-3. One more kill from the Chronos and it would be a tie. But the match is not about the scoring of kills. It is about who could destroy their base. And it is too early to conclude who would be the victor of their match!


    "AHH... you guys are too slow to respond!" the player of the marksman snarled after his character died.


    "GG!" the tank player sarcastically responded at him.


    "Guys, this is embarrassing. The squad that we are fighting is not even as famous as we are. Yet, you are arguing because of them," their assassin scowled at their behavior.


    "Let''s attack together and push in their middle lane," their fighter suggested.


    Soon, their character quickly cleared the creeps of the Chronos team. But before they could destroy the initial tower, their opponent had already pushed their bottom lane.


    They suddenly become conflicted about whether to protect their secondary tower or destroy the initial tower to the enemy.


    "Push!" their mage proposed.


    As they managed to destroy the initial tower, the Chronos was already attacking the final defense in their bottom lane!


    "AHH... retreat!" the fighter ordered and they quickly returned to protect their tower.


    Their tank leaped towards the enemies and the rest of them followed to throw their attacks. However, the Fab_Gamers failed to realize that their pieces of equipment were not sufficient to kill their enemies.


    CEO UNRIVALED received all of the damage and also managed to survive. Her allies quicly retaliated and throw their attacks too. As the clash of different skills became chaotic, the FAB_Gamers were slain one after another.


    Wiped Out!


    The screen quickly showed the notification after the entire enemy was annihilated. The leading score drastically changed. 4-8


    "It''s over." The FAB_Gamers mage player scratched his head. He assumed that the Chronos would quickly end their match.


    But to his surprise, their entire team went back to their base to recover their HP and MP. This action left him speechless.


    "HAHAHA They are really noobs! They could have destroyed our base, but they did not! What a great mistake!" the laughter from the player who was using the marksman role echoed to the entire training room. His allies were also smiling after knowing that the Chronos was not pushing anymore. They could still win!


    Meanwhile, in the office of the leader of the FAB_Gamers squad, a man drank his tea silently. He was secretly using a spectator''s mode and watched the match.


    A cold smile formed on his lips after observing the Chronos members not pursuing in destroying their base. To a gamer, it could mean that the opponent was just an amateur and lacked experience. But to his perspective as the leader of their squad, it was a gesture of mercy and respect!


    It was clear that the Chronos squad deliberately retreated to maintain a harmonious connection and avoid hatred from their group. This was not because they were noobs. Even noobs understood the clear opportunity to gain victory. But the opponent chose to recover their HP instead.


    "After all, we are strangers and our relationship is still fragile." WINS muffled a laugh and placed the cup of tea back on his table.


    He understood the hidden intention of his opponent''s action. The man clicked on his chatbox and looked at the first message of CEO UNRIVALED. It contained an attachment proposal. As he reviewed the file, he subconsciously placed a hand on his mouth and pondered deeply.


    ''This CEO UNRIVALED, is this person a real CEO?'' He became suspicious as the content of the proposal was neatly written and the context was explained in a concise and precise manner. And now, as he saw that the Chronos wanted to maintain a good connection with his squad, his suspicion also increased. Only those who had experienced in business field truly could comprehend the importance of connections!


    ''I hope we could meet in person,'' he mentally said and composed another chat message.


    FAB_Gamer WINS: Ah, there is no need to show mercy. xD


    After sending his message, he stood from his seat and walked towards the training room.


    The match was already ended as his squad made their comeback and defeated the Chronos. He sighed and pursed his lips tightly as his squad members were rejoicing at their victory. He stayed silent and did not want to spoil their happiness.

 Chapter 6 - Stephens News

    "So, how''s your practice game? Let me know what you think of the Chronos squad." WINS casually asked his squad members. His attention was darted on the boy who played the assassin role. The boy was the youngest member on the team.


    "It was quite shocking. Particularly their team rotation. It lacks of focus. But at the same time, it made me confused of which lane they were targeting to push!" the assassin boy answered in a respectful tone. He pointed how the Chronos destroyed all the initial towers on the three lanes.


    "I think it was mind blowing! I have never felt my heart beating so fast for the longest time. I felt so alive during the clash!" the tank user added. He remembered how they got wiped out during the clash but still managed to win.


    "They did have potential. Their tank was undeniably the one who carries them," the fighter user commented.


    "Boss WINS, you were right. They are good at ganking and jungle stealing. It was not clear in the early minutes of our game and we even stole their jungle once. But in the later game, they have completely dominated us in gold," the mage user confirmed with a beaming smile.


    "Cheh! Boss, I think those players are just noobs. It was a boring game," their marksman user criticized.


    "AH, you really lack in right judgment! How could it be boring when you are smiling after the game!" the tank user frowned and glared at the player. There were plenty of members in FAB_Gamers squad and it was the first time that they party together. They usually have a different teammates depending on the availability of their players.


    "The Chronos mage got most of their deaths. It can be considered as feeding. Yet on the late game, it was also the mage who got the most numbers of kills. I think all the kills were not coincidental, it was arranged by the tank. Whoever is the CEO UNRIVALED, that player is controlling the tank skillset to make sure that their mage would get the last hit," the assassin user told them about his analysis.


    "That''s right! I was also certain that the tank becomes the core. The team got 8 kills and the tank got 8 assists. That already means something in the team fight, right? So, don''t call it a boring match," the fighter user also looked down at their marksman.


    "AH... but they did not push on our base after we got wiped out. Which means, they are still noobs," the marksman user defended. WINS only nodded his head in understanding.


    "That part is also confusing. If they push to the base, we would not have a chance to win. It was still a good game. I don''t mind if they want for another match," the tank user nodded his head and looked at his squad leader.


    "Yes, me too. Boss, ask them for another match!" the mage user grinned.


    WINS was contented with the squad members'' assessment. Hearing the satisfaction in their tone while speaking meant that the Chronos squad was a worthy opponent for them.


    "That''s good that you enjoy the game. I will tell their leader for another practice match and contact you if they agreed." WINS dismissed. He decided to go back to his office and left his squad members in the training room by themselves.


    As he sat down at his comfortable gaming chair and looked at his monitor, which showed his chatbox, he noticed a reply from the Chronos leader.


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: You are a smart leader. You will surely prosper!


    WINS secretly laugh, ''The way this person speaks has an air of density and volume. It was not just a mere chat. It was a message that holds a lot of assurance and conviction. As if the person was certain of what the message contains.''


    He slowly pressed his keyboard keys and lazily typed a response.


    FAB_Gamers WINS: one more match?


    They, gamers, are like this. They don''t need a lengthy chat message to convey what they were trying to say. They could even shorten up a single word with the fewest possible alphabet character and the person they were having a conversation with could still understand them. They were not strangers with acronyms, contractions, and abbreviations of words either. In fact some would invent their own way of chatting.


    ~


    "AH... Why did you ask us to return to our base! We can push their tower, you know?" Clark was complaining at their loss. They almost reached victory.


    Yet, the almost was still equivalent to defeat.


    "It''s okay. It was a practice match. The idea was to test our skills." Stephen told Clark. Even though he did not understand why Sofia told them to retreat, he does not seem to care that they were defeated because of her decision.


    "Stephen is right. We should internalize what happened during that match." Joey suggested.


    "The lesson here is that if we don''t push in the very first chance we have, it will lead to our defeat." Claire laughed. She was not affected by the result either.


    "You have a point, Claire. Hehe, How''s the experience?" Sofia asked them.


    "It was not easy! They have killed me 3 times and I felt frustrated and burdened!" Clark quickly lamented.


    "Yes, they are good," the rest of them agreed.


    "Our opponent next week would be the same as them. We should think of a strategy on how to win." Sofia looked at her phone while speaking. Stephen who was sitting behind her secretly took a peek at her screen and saw the conversation trail between the other squad leader.


    "How did you get acquainted with that squad leader WINS?" Stephen curiously asked.


    "Oh, it was last night after we play..." Sofia said while her attention was still on her phone.


    "What happens after we play last night? I thought you would sleep?" Stephen gazed at her and inquired quietly. Their companions were now focused on the mobile phone.


    Sofia stretched her arms and legs before turning her attention to Stephen. "I realized last night that random matches won''t be beneficial to us. So I checked the top 5 global rankings squad and message their leaders if they are interested in a squad vs squad fight," she slowly spoke.


    "Okay... I have a piece of bad news, do you want to hear it?" Stephen quickly changed the topic.


    "Bad news? On a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is the highest and 1 is the lowest, how bad is your news?" Sofia calmly stared at his face.


    Stephen absentmindedly traced the tattoo on his arm, "It''s probably 10 for you."


    "That worst? Go on and spill your bad news..." she ordered.


    "So I went to school earlier this morning. The school head said that my offense was too heavy that they cannot overlook the situation. I was already expelled on their record," Stephen said with apologetic eyes.


    "The school gave you an expulsion? That''s really bad," Sofia felt concerned. She glanced at the time on her phone and stood from her seat.


    "Where are you going?" Stephen asked while she walked towards the other room. Sofia did not give him an answer but Claire looked up and realized that the lady was heading towards her bedroom.


    "Are we done with our practice? They are sending another match invite in the lobby," she said loudly.


    "No, go and continue playing without me. I will ask them to let us borrow a player to complete our lineup." Sofia answered while sending a message to the leader of FAB_Gamers squad.


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: something important came up. I will leave my team to you. hehe lend me two of your players to complete our lineup?


    FAB_Gamers WINS: Two players! Are you making me responsible for your squad? that''s a shameless request!


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: if you feel responsible, then, thank you? it''s not shameless coz you have plenty of members? and we are only in minimum? thank you?


    FAB_Gamers WINS: why the question mark... should I say you''re welcome?


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: Thank you! with no question mark.


    FAB_Gamers WINS: Fine. Give me something in return.


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: I''ll give you skin. Which one do you want?


    FAB_Gamers WINS: I''ll think about it first. Wait for me to ask for the most expensive skin.


    The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED: Please practice modesty!!!


    For some unknown reason, WINS was enjoying their exchange of conversation. The other person has an air of eloquence that kept him amused.


    After their quick chat ended, Sofia emerged from her room wearing a different outfit. It was casual jeans but with a white top and a black blazer. She also placed a hair clip on the side of her head.


    "Are you going out?" Claire asked.


    "Yes, I am tagging Stephen with me. You three, I leave you to practice here. Their leader will let us have a temporary member to join you." Sofia explained and grabbed Stephen along with her.


    "They are close?" Clark asked Joey who was initially the original friend of Stephen.


    "They seemed to be close now?" Joey shrugged and focused on his mobile phone.


    Claire just looked at the two figures as they walked out of the apartment. She silently returned her attention to the game and noticed that their lineup was complete. On their team, there were two additional players from FAB_Gamers squad who joined them.


    "Is this okay?" Clark asked after seeing their lineup.


    "On practice matches, this is okay. But it''s rare because squad leaders normally do not lend their members to their opponents." Claire explained.


    "Ahh... It was that tank and mage earlier. Should I change my role?" Clark asked when he noticed that the two opponents became their ally.


    "Hello!" the male voice greeted them through the speaker. It was their new tank user ally. They conveniently access their microphone for better communication.


    "Hi!" Claire responded.


    "OHHH... A girl gamer? I''m Brandon. What''s your name?" the tank user swiftly asked.


    "The name is Claire. Our mage is Clark, the fighter is Joey. It''s just the three of us. Our tank and marksman went out." she explained and made a quick introduction.


    "Hi Claire, I am Michael, the mage user but I can do marksman for now. Hi also to Clark and Joey! Brandon and I will be your ally as requested by our squad leader." another male joined their conversation.


    "Okay. Thank you for your time, Seniors. We are grateful for allowing us to have a practice match with you. We are just real amateurs in this game." Claire responded respectfully. They were aware that their squad is not like a normal group of players. They are in the pro scene and their time is also valuable.


    "I noticed that your Chronos squad is barely in a minimum member. But why do you need to have a practice match?" Brandon''s voice followed the speaker.


    "Oh, it''s because our district will have a tournament on this game next week. And we decided to participate in the tournament." Joey answered. Clark was speechless as he could not imagine that the players he had idolized were actually playing with him!


    "Which district are you guys in?" Michael suddenly inquired out of curiosity.


    "It''s in District 7." Clark finally found the guts to speak.


    "Ohh... that would be a great thing to watch. I will tell our squad leader if he would allow us to go." Michael said with enthusiasm.


    "Yes, we would surely watch you guys." Brandon agreed. He also made a quick search on his computer and typed District 7 Online Tournament. The search result was few but on point. It gives the details of the participating squads and the venue.


    "Oh, there are a lot of squads joining in your tournament. Good luck guys!" Brandon added after seeing the lists of participants. He scrolled down his mouse until he saw the name of the Chronos squad on the list.


    "Thank you!" Joey stated as the timer of their on going match started counting. Soon after, they became silent and the second match commenced.


    ~


    Outside the apartment, Sofia and Stephen were heading towards the school. Several people threw them an awkward look.


    "I swear to get plenty of sleep after the tournament..." Sofia mumbled. She assumed that the students were looking at her because of the pimples on her face. With her short hair, it was noticeable.


    "Let me see that civilization of pimples that you are talking about." Stephen halted and turned her around to face him.


    "It''s here." Sofia casually pointed on her right chin near the ears.


    Stephen tilted her chin and stared at the skin. Her face was not really full of pimples but there were indeed a group of red marks that were swelling on the side.


    "Ahh.. so this is the civilization. I see." Stephen rubbed the red marks gently but Sofia smacked his hand.


    "Don''t touch it! It would become worse!" she finally turned around and started walking. Stephen grinned behind as he followed her lead.

 Chapter 7 - A Quick Meeting With The Headmaster

    As the two approached the entrance gate towards the school campus, two guards also blocked their way. Both have a respectable stance and Sofia could tell that these guards were old enough to be respected.


    "I''m sorry but we do not allow delinquents, non-students to enter. We just received this order this afternoon," one of the guards eyed Stephen apologetically.


    Stephen just scratched his head and looked embarrassed. He was told by their headmaster that it was his last time that he could enter the school grounds earlier.


    The guard also felt conflicted.


    Sofia smiled at the guards respectfully, "We have no intention of breaking the school rules. But we need to speak with the headmaster. He needs to be there."


    "Young lady, we cannot do anything anymore. We were scolded earlier..." the other guard looked on the ground to avoid the persuasive gaze of Sofia.


    "Wait here then," she glanced at Stephen before entering the gate.


    ''She did not argue with the guards?'' Stephen mentally questioned as he stared at her retreating back until she turned into a corner and was gone from his sight.


    The headmaster''s office was just a few walks away from the entrance gate. Sofia quickly reached the door. But before her hands could knock, a flyer that was pinned on the bulletin board caught her attention.


    The flyer was for the senior students but the topic had perked her interests.


    WHAT: Basic Financial Literacy Seminar


    WHO: Graduating Senior Students


    When: Feb 8, 2017 Wednesday 7:00am - 12:pm


    Those who are interested are also welcome to join! See you there!


    The content of the flyer was brief. Below were the organizer''s and the faculty staff''s signatures.


    Sofia took a photo of the flyer and sent it to the other members of the Chronos Squad. Then she finally tapped her hands on the office door.


    The knocking sound was soft. It was enough for the person inside to notice that somebody was outside yet the volume did not interrupt them from what they were working on inside.


    An old secretary quickly opened the door.


    "May I help you?" she asked while smiling at Sofia.


    "Good afternoon, Ma''am. If it is not a trouble, may I speak with the headmaster?" Sofia softly told the old secretary.


    "Yes, the headmaster is here. Come in!" the old secretary quickly pushed the door wide open to let her enter. She did not even ask the headmaster for permission. Somehow, there is something in the way Sofia spoke, perhaps her tone, that made the old secretary welcome her.


    "Aunt, who is it?" the headmaster asked without looking at the newcomer. The headmaster was a woman who looked like in her late thirties and the old secretary was her aunt.


    "A lovely girl is looking for you!" the old secretary announced with enthusiasm.


    Her tone made the headmaster curious and looked up. As the two of them made eye contact, she could only admire how clear the gaze of Sofia.


    ''Is this a young miss from a rich family? What does she want?'' the headmaster mentally asked. Her eyes slowly traveled at the outfit of Sofia. From head to toe, she looked at her.


    Under the scrutinizing stare of the headmaster, Sofia remained her head upwards. She did not flinch even a little.


    ''What a domineering composure! For a young student to possess this bearing, it''s too rare! Which family did this girl come from?'' the old secretary secretly admired from the corner of the office. She could not sense any hint of being a spoiled brat in Sofia''s action. All she could feel was Sofia''s aura of authority looming around.


    After a few minutes of examining, the headmaster placed her hand on the table and clasped her fingers.


    "How can I help you?" she asked in a tone that does not sound like the headmaster of the school at all. Even her aunt was surprised hearing her voice. Heck, she was also surprised of her voice!


    "Good afternoon, Headmaster Pamela. I am Sofia Su, one of the students in the junior night class. I am a friend of Steph---" Sofia abruptly paused. She did not know the complete name of Stephen! This was the first mistake she had ever noted. She should have asked him for his complete name!


    Fortunately, the headmaster was quick to understand what she wanted to speak. Stephen''s case was the highlight of her headache that day, hence, she knew directly where the discussion would be heading.


    "For Stephen Jiang''s case, it is a confidential matter. We have data privacy and I cannot disclose this to you," the headmaster stated with a firm tone.


    "I understand about the importance of data privacy, headmaster Pamela. I was with him earlier, yet because of his status in school, the guards did not allow him to enter our premises. But I still came here, not to discuss the private matter about his case but to say something. I hope you can listen to me, headmaster." Sofia explained with a crisp sound. She remained standing in front of the headmaster for the lady did not invite her to take a seat.


    But, the way she spoke and the way she stood in front of the headmaster, it was as if her position is higher than the woman sitting behind her desk.


    "You want to say something? Go ahead..." the headmaster retracted her hand and brushed her hair uncomfortably. She felt like the air between them was suffocating her!


    "Headmaster, at some point in our life we make mistakes. I am not here to pursue you about ''nobody is perfect'' discussion because I am certain that you are more knowledgeable than me. My reason for coming to you is to say that a second chance is the way of the heavens to allow us to finish our goals," Sofia halted. Unknowingly, she was talking about how she ended up as a student from her former CEO status. When the realization hit her, she lost in her tracks.


    The headmaster was confused of her words and just stared at her.


    Sofia grabbed her silence as the opportunity to continue talking.


    "I don''t know what Stephen had done, but I am sure that he had made his reflection for the two months that he was out of school. If he is expelled, his future will be ruined. If you give him a second chance, in the future you might be able to see him leading this country, or become the biggest sponsor in this school. Those people who are sincere, they know how to appreciate the gift of second chances. Please reconsider your decision of expelling him. This is only what I am here, headmaster Pamela. Thank you for your time." Sofia gave a customary bow to the headmaster and walked out of the office.


    "Sofia Su..." The headmaster mumbled with a deep frown on her forehead. She stared at the door where the young lady exited.


    "Have you noticed how she talked, aunt?" Pamela asked her aunt who was pouring tea on the cup.


    "Yes, I have. The tone, the mannerisms... perhaps, Miss Su have gone into a private family training. You know those extremely rich people, they would send their children a trainer to monitor how they act in public," the old secretary answered while handing the cup of tea to Pamela.


    "I was left speechless! Her tone did not give me any room for argument! How can a student possess such a way of delivering a speech! And aunt, you know me! I never allowed people to overrule my decisions. But her tone... it is weird and convincing!" the headmaster carefully took a sip of the hot liquid as the two of them pondered what had just happened. It was just a matter of five minutes...or less. The shortest meeting if she would ever consider it as a meeting. Yet, it left her questioning everything.


    Pamela did not know what to feel. Even if she wanted to feel insulted by the way Sofia spoke to her, she could not. Sofia''s tone and words have maintained politeness and respect towards her.


    She is not happy either. A student just questioned her decision. This has never happened in her career as the headmaster of the school. It was the first time!


    "The lady has a point." the old secretary sounded. "Second chances..." She muttered as the fragments of memory started to play in her mind.


    Pamela treated her aunt like real family more than her biological parents. She was pregnant back when she was in college and her family disowned her the moment they knew. Her aunt was the one who took care of her when her family abandoned her to save their reputation.


    "Second chances..." The headmaster smiled bitterly and glanced at the photo in the picture frame of her desk. It was an image of three people.


    "Yes, look at you... you become the headmaster of the school. Who would have thought that you would be successful, right?" her aunt quietly sat down on the chair opposite her.


    "Sofia Su..." The headmaster mumbled again. It was as if she was carving the name in her memory.


    Not long after, she took a folder containing the file on the desk. The sound of a paper being tear dominated the silent office. After she discarded the paper in the bin below her desk, she grabbed the mouse and unlocked her computer. Her fingers quickly pressed the keyboard keys as she went to the school admin forum and retracted the expulsion of Stephen Jiang.


    Pamela took a deep breath before she proceeded to check the student''s files. She scrolled down until the name ''Sofia Blanca D. Su'' caught her eyes.


    She double-clicked the file quickly but the information inside was too little. It was just the information that Sofia had said to her when she introduced her identity earlier.


    Student Profile


    Student Name: Sofia Blanca D. Su


    Age: 17


    Year: Junior High


    Section: Night Class


    The old secretary turned around and took a peek at her monitor after seeing her confused expression.


    "She is from the night class. Most of the students in that section are working and studying at the same time. So, they were not required to give so much information," her aunt explained after seeing the few details on screen.


    "Then, she is not from a rich family? Ahh... but it''s too unbelievable. Only the upper-class rich daughters and sons could possess the kind of aura that is around her," Pamela whispered.


    "Well, perhaps it is like the stories in televisions. These dramas involving rich daughters being sent to pretend to be poor. It was also some kind of training for them," the old secretary chuckled as she remembered the favorite TV series that she had been following.


    "I see. Aunt, please send a notification to Mr. Jiang''s contact number that his status in our school was changed. He is no longer expelled. He can report tomorrow and comply with the projects that he had not submitted for the last two months." Pamela nodded her head and closed the profile tab.


    Sofia exited the gate and saw Stephen having a conversation with the two guards.


    "Oh... Young lady, did you not spoke with the headmaster?" one guard asked her. Stephen also wanted to ask the same question as it was just a matter of few minutes and she already returned.


    "We have spoken already. It was just quick because I don''t want to disturb the headmaster. She is also a busy person managing the school," Sofia smiled.


    "Ohh... okay," the guard said and did not speak further.


    Some groups of students were also exiting the gate. One of them was Chris, a senior student and the leader of the FATALITY Squad. The most famous squad in their district.


    "Ohhh, look what we have here! Isn''t this the tank pro? I am waiting for you to submit your application to our squad!" Chris arrogantly approached Sofia.


    "Nahh... bruh, have you heard of the news that Jasmine said? She won''t be applying. She will be our enemy in the tournament!" one of the students behind Chris spoke.


    "Is it? Which squad did you apply to? I will make sure to trample it on the day of the tournament!" Chris turned serious. He was, indeed, looking forward to getting Sofia on his team. He saw most of her gameplay and he was certain that it would give his squad a great advantage if she plays with them.


    "We will meet there." Sofia just spoke one sentence and turned away from him.


    "Whichever squad it is, it will become a loser!" Chris called loudly but the lady did not bother paying attention to him.

 Chapter 8 - Their Vision

    Stephen was quietly walking behind Sofia. He was opening his unread messages. One was from Sofia and the other was from the school.


    He clicked the one that Sofia sent him and stared at the content.


    "This seminar has nothing to do with us. This is for our seniors." Stephen voiced out after reading all the content. It was the picture of the flyer that Sofia had seen on the bulletin board outside the headmaster''s office.


    "Anyone interested is welcome to join the seminar... That''s tomorrow morning until 12 pm." Sofia responded emphasizing the note printed below the flyer.


    "But why are you interested? Next year, we will also have this type of seminar. Besides, this is just boring discussions about how to spend our money," Stephen argued.


    "Financial literacy is not just as simple as how to spend money. We will learn a lot. The investment planning, stocks and bonds... I''m sure the seminar will cover these topics," Sofia answered. But in reality, she already knew everything about financial literacy. The reason why she wanted to attend was to make her members know the basics.


    "Why do we need to learn from this?" Stephen innocently looked at her. The frown on his forehead had creased deeper. He was not interested in the seminar at all!


    "We will win that tournament and we will use our money to invest in things that are profitable. This way, our money grows. Time will come, we will become capable of forming a company." Sofia looked at him straight in the eye.


    "Say what?!" Stephen was at loss. Perhaps, her way of speaking was too much for his teenage soul!


    "You have no choice, tomorrow, I am forcing you to attend the seminar. If you do not attend, I will replace you," Sofia''s sternly told the man.


    Stephen sighed, "I didn''t say that I won''t attend. It''s just that, we are probably the junior students who would attend that seminar. It would be awkward. And the speaker may place us in a hot spot."


    "It doesn''t matter. As long as we can learn," Sofia shrugged. They entered the convenience store and ordered a take-out. Chris and his group were trailing behind them.


    "So, tell me which squad are you on?" Chris blocked their way out and stood at the door.


    "Don''t waste my time," Sofia looked at him as if he was in trouble. He absentmindedly took a step on the side and let the two exit the store.


    "Bruh, according to Jasmine, that tank user did not apply for a squad. She made her own squad!" one nosy member told Chris after the two left.


    "Really? How did Jasmine know these details? She had not attended school since yesterday!" Chris asked while he looked for a vacant table to occupy.


    "Duh? her boyfriend was James. It is said that James wanted to join the new squad as a marksman," the member reported.


    "What a loser! Does he actually want to change his squad? What''s next?" Chris glanced sideways and hinted his member to continue. He was also careful that nobody could hear their conversation.


    "So, James told his younger brother, Clark, to inform the squad. But for some weird reasons, his brother was recruited as the mage user. James was outraged and canceled his application to them," the member finished with a sigh.


    "Ahhh... so, there are no special members in the squad that she created? What squad is it?" Chris clarified.


    "In the forum, they have registered their group as The Chronos Squad. Well, for special member... there is her. Isn''t she possess unparalleled tanking skills. She should count as a special member, right?" another member joined their conversation.


    "Yeah, I guess. We need to get a tank killer to win the tournament. That tank user is a difficult opponent," Chris clenched his fist with determination. He was already bothered that Sofia would be one of their opponents.


    Meanwhile, in the apartment of Sofia, the three members have long stopped playing on their mobile phone. They were having a movie play on one of Clark''s mobile phones. They watched together in silence.


    The movie was interrupted when Sofia''s message was notified on the phone.


    "Let me check the message," Clark extended his arms and took the phone. Joey and Claire stretched their body comfortably while waiting for Clark to finish reading the message.


    "Sofia sent me a picture of a seminar flyer for senior high students..." Clark announced and showed them the message.


    "Basic Finacial Literacy Seminar... Is she into this kind of stuff? This is like for business courses right?" Joey muttered.


    "All I know is she loves playing on her phone. This sudden interest in business is also strange for me," Claire responded.


    "Uhhmmn... she spoke about assets and liability last time. So, I guess... she is into with this stuff..." Clark commented.


    While the three of them are discussing, Sofia and Stephen emerged from the door.


    "We brought food! Help yourself... come!" Sofia announced.


    The three abandoned members pouted. "Did you just bribe us with food for abandoning us?" Claire joked.


    "Hehehe Let''s not play anymore. Let''s attend a seminar tomorrow morning. Just tell your teacher if you have a class, I''m sure she will excuse you," Sofia distributed the packaged containing their food to the group. Each was a meal packed individually.


    "Oh, our teacher already announced this seminar before. She said that we can attend if we want to." Clark told her as he began chewing his food.


    "Yeah, I also remember about this seminar being informed by our class president. There is no problem if I attend this," Joey seconded.


    "That''s great! Take note of the time. It''s 7 am. Be sure to wake up early." For a moment, the four of them just stared at Sofia like she was an alien to them.


    "What?!" she demanded after getting a weird glance from the group.


    "You sounded like a mother, Sof!" Claire giggled and the rest laughed.


    "What mother?! Hmmp, if you don''t show up tomorrow, I will replace you in the squad. If you show up late, I will still replace you. This seminar is important." Sofia scowled at her team.


    "But this is for our seniors. We are still juniors though. The school will conduct the same seminar next year. And it will be our turn to attend on that," Claire complained.


    "You and Stephen think the same. While there is an opportunity to learn, grab it. Learning has a phase. Next year, our learning would not be the same as this year." Sofia told them.


    "Say, why do we need to attend this seminar?" Claire probed.


    "I want our group to prosper in the field of earning money. Our goal right now is to win the tournament. But if we don''t know how to handle the prize money, it would be wasted. This seminar will serve as our light to the path of making profit," Sofia directly told them.


    "Yes, I want to surpass my parent''s money!" Clark joined her.


    "Okay... I don''t know. If we get there... like we become insanely rich. I will write a book about my life with a title, I sign up as marksman, I end up becoming a rich man," Stephen playfully suggested.


    "Hahaha, that''s a good one bro!" Joey was amused by the idea. But Sofia just stared at Stephen.


    "Then start plotting your storyline! We will get there..." She smirked and focused on her food.


    "I might!" Stephen beamed.


    "This is also good. We have the vision that is more than just winning a competition. A vision that would cater to our future. We are still young, but it''s not bad to plan our future early! Okay, I am in! Let''s go to that path." Claire nodded her head and clapped her hand.


    "But the prize money is just hundreds of thousands. When we split these... or what is our plan for the prize money?" Joey asked.


    "Just now focused on enhancing our skill to get the prize money. We cannot count the chicks if the eggs are not yet hatched. Otherwise, we are setting ourselves for disappointment. We will go one step at a time. The first step is to win.... and win more. The many tournaments, the better. Let''s have fun while doing this," Sofia stated trying to lessen the pressure of her group. She realized that if she pushed her ideas at them, her members may get overwhelmed.


    "Right. Pass me a cola, Sof." Stephen pointed the plastic beside her. He was the first one to finish his meal.


    "Here," Sofia casually handed the cola before they continued to eat in silence.


    "Sof, the FAB_Gamers may watch the tournament. Depending on their leader." Claire opened up to the two who were not aware.


    "It''s good to maintain a good relationship with them. As long as they do not cross the line or put us at a disadvantage, we can be friends with their members. But our loyalty must be in our squad." Sofia could somehow guess why the squad was interested in the tournament. The Fab_Gamers may be looking for potential members to add to their squad. And district tournaments are a great place to see potential candidates. This is why she reminded them about being loyal to their squad.


    After eating, the group decided to leave Sofia in peace.


    A driver picked Clark from her house. Stephen was just living nearby, so Joey accompanied him to his place. Claire was just in the same building. She was just a floor below the unit of Sofia.


    ~


    "Heh, here is the son who hangs out with the thugs!" James announced as Clark returned home.


    Instead of getting angry, Clark smiled at his brother. "Dad, I will sleep early. Tomorrow, we will be attending a seminar..." he told his father before walking towards his room.


    "Dad, why are you not scolding Clark?"


    Clark heard James'' voice questioning his father before he closed the door of his room. He could only shake his head.


    "It''s also good to hang out with friends, son. Socializing is important in business..." James heard his father responded to him softly.


    "You are so lenient with Clark, dad. You are unfair!" James yelled angrily.


    "How so? How did I become unfair? Since when did I treat you two without fairness... Both of you have the same access to a personal driver. Anytime you want to go out, you can. Money was the same. James, isn''t you who always makes your brother''s life hard? I have been silent of you looking down at him. But it might also be better to confront this behavior once and for all!" his father turned away from the report that he was reading and focused on his eldest son.


    The boy was short-tempered, unlike his brother. But his attitude reminded him so much of his youth. He could not blame his eldest son if he had inherited something troublesome from him.


    James went silent and his eyes were planted on the carpeted floor of their living room. He did not know why he was so angry. Perhaps, it was plain jealousy.


    His brother had genuine friends but he could only hang out with the people that wanted him for his money. There is no one that he can hang out with just for the intention of having fun. All of his friends are eager of taking advantage of his money and use him for their own fun.


    "Yeah, it''s my fault. I don''t know why I said it, dad." James apologized. Despite his short temper, he knew that it was his fault and he does not have a problem admitting his mistake. One quality that made his father admired him.


    "I understand that you are concern with the safety of your brother. But he is old enough to make his decisions. As long as he is not doing illegal things to be happy, we should respect the type of friends he wanted to hang out with," his father patted his shoulder.


    "The two of you are siblings. You should share mutual respect. Don''t pick on your brother anymore. If you have time, must apologize to Clark." The old man added before turning his head to the company report showing on his laptop screen.

 Chapter 9 - Sibling Bonds

    Clark was about to sleep when he heard someone knocking on his door. Soon the door was pushed slightly opened and the head of his brother emerged from the doorframe. They both smiled politely.


    "What''s up, bro?" Clark casually asked James. Although the older brother sometimes provoked him by words, Clark would never fight back to him. He sees this older brother with a degree of respect similar to his father. This is not Clark being meek it''s just that he knew that if he would be in trouble, his brother would come to his rescue.


    "You are sleeping now?" James asked after seeing that his younger brother was already under the blankets. It was just past six in the evening. A strange time to call it a night.


    "Uhm, yes. I know it is still six and nobody sleeps this early... but, I need to wake up before 7 am for a seminar. You know me, I might not be able to wake up at six if I don''t sleep this time," Clark replied thoughtfully. After leaving Sofia''s place, he was really planning on sleeping.


    "The seminar? You mean that financial literacy or another seminar?" James curiously asked.


    "That''s the one. Well, Sofia and the squad will be joining the seminar tomorrow. This seminar is the light for us," Clark quoted Sofia''s words earlier. He did not know that without discussing their goals, these words are too vague and could be misinterpreted.


    "The light? It''s just a seminar. We are also required to attend it," James responded to his brother.


    "Hmmn, do you need anything, though? I might not be able to wake up if I don''t sleep early," Clark sighed as he glanced at the wall clock.


    Like most of the teens, Clark was too greedy of sleep. He could sometimes sleep for more than 8 hours. His body could even extend to 12 hours of sleeping!


    Some gamers would extend their time playing games in public computer shops. But Clark''s talent is to extend his sleeping time almost every day! This was why his gaming skills were below an average player. Because he did not pay attention to improving his gameplay and he did not spend nights playing games.


    "Alright. Sorry for earlier if I snapped. It''s just that, the squad that I joined in, we were having a practice in the game the whole day. And we encountered series of defeats. Our group was arguing too badly and my mood was affected." James rubbed his palms and pursed his lips as he explained his situation to his younger brother.


    Clark nodded his head slightly in understanding. The game could be frustrating like this. It is enjoyable to have a winning streak. It is depressing if it is a lost streak. The conflict between teammates could rise drastically if each team member would blame each other instead of reflecting on their own gameplay.


    Clark suddenly remembers his first game that day. His mage died several times during the early minute of the match. Those deaths of his mage made him realized that his skills were just below average. It was too far from his teammates.


    If he would be teamed up by another squad, the members would have already yelled at his lack of skills. They would have trash-talked him. It was the usual response for most of the teammates who have a noob team member.


    But, the group just told him that the deaths his mage procured were okay. Sofia''s tank even assisted him to overturn his situation and gave him kills. They were helpful to him. Nobody in his squad blamed him for feeding. (A/N: Feeding is a term that means accumulating too many deaths in the game, allowing the opponent to have a great advantage of the entire battle. Mostly, this term is used when a player intentionally allows the opponent to kill their character.)


    "Oh, it''s nothing. Big bro, they are not thugs. In fact, I have played with my favorite squad. The Fab_Gamers agreed to have a practice game with us." Clark recounted with gentleness in his eyes. He had never thought that a day would come for him to face these members of top squads.


    "What?! The Fab_Gamers? The famous one? Are you sure that they are legit?" James jumped in surprise. At first, he did not plan on chitchatting with his brother. But after the topic was mentioned, James pushed the door widely and entered.


    Clark did not mind as James pulled his gaming chair and sat on it. He just leaned on his headboard and continued talking, "It was the legit squad. They even let us borrow two of their members. I think Sofia contacted them to play with us."


    James'' face showed a hint of admiration as he eagerly listened to his brother. "Ahhh... that tank user. With her skill, I am not surprised by the FAB_Gamers squad''s decision to practice match with your group. They were probably curious about her tanking ability. How was it? They are good right?"


    "Yes, we did not win on any match against them..." Clark mentioned, perhaps, to make his brother feel at ease on his losing streak.


    "They are part of the top squads in server ranking. Even the top 5 global rank squad recognized this group. It is enough that you guys were able to play with them. You are lucky! If I did not act on my impulses, I could have also played with them." James mumbled as he reflected on his inappropriate reaction when he found out that his brother would be a mage in the squad.


    "You really need to work on your temper, bro. Maybe you are right, the FAB_Gamers squad is probably curious about Sofia. That''s what the others also said. Our goal was to develop our skills for the competition. Not to win yet. So it''s okay if we lose on the match against them." Clark scratched the back of his head and yawned.


    "That''s nice. Good luck to your squad. Although you are not a skilled player. But the match is indeed a team competition. You have a reliable team leader." James stood from his seat and walked slowly towards the door.


    "Good luck also bro. See you tomorrow." Clark stated while watching his brother waved a hand and exited his room.


    A gentle smile formed on Clark''s lips. He has a good brother but also a short-tempered one. James always reacts first before thinking of the consequences behind his action. This was the only fault he could see in his character. But then again, he is just a teen. So, his father always gave this attitude of him a leeway.


    Clark decided to close his eyes as he drove his consciousness towards the slumber state.


    It did not require Clark to wait for his alarm clock to ring. His body was fully awake at past 4 in the morning. It was too early but considering the time he slept last night, there was nothing unusual on it.


    The boy quickly left his bed just in case his body would be tempted to go back to sleep. He has a 90% tendency of extending his sleep given the time he woke up. He took a shower and was done preparing after 5 am.


    "Morning, dad!" his father nearly jumped in surprise as Clark''s voice echoed in the silence of the dawn. The old man was on his usual spot, reading some news on his phone.


    "You are so early!" his father remarked while his eyes were following the movements of Clark.


    "Yes, I am! I have to attend a seminar this 7 am. It''s about financial literacy," he replied while preparing his coffee.


    "Financial literacy..." his father mumbled and cast a strange look at his son. He remembered this boy had told him that he will surpass his riches. He did not expect that his son was really serious about it.


    "Yes, well... our group has big plans. But right now, we need to learn the basics of handling our finances. One day though, one day... our money will make money for us," Clark casually said.


    "That''s nice, son!" his father looked at the busy Clark with a gentle expression.


    Out of a sudden, the telephone interrupted their interaction. His father answered the call while Clark proceeded to pour a lot of creamer on his coffee before drinking it.


    "You''re coming? Do you want me to pick you at the airport?"


    "That''s good, darling. I missed you too. I love you. See you later."


    Based on his father''s response to the call, Clark could guess that the other person on the line was his mother. His mother was in District 5, working as a private financial advisor.


    Clark glanced at his father and saw a genuine smile on his lips. "It''s mom? I should have talked to her," Clark pouted like a child.


    "Ahh... Your mother is in rush. She is about to board on a plane going here. Right, you said you would attend a seminar. Your mother will be the guest speaker at the seminar. So, you will meet her at school later," his father explained.


    "Really? Cool! My friends would be able to meet mom there!" Clark grinned while some thoughts were running in his mind. He wanted to see his friend''s surprised reaction later.


    The sun rays gradually broke into the dawn. Light sprawled from the opened windows of their dining area. The light breeze entered the room as James walked in.


    "Do you want to go to school together?" his elder brother asked casually.


    "Oh, yes!" the quick response of Clark followed. Excitement was evident in his voice.


    The sun was fully shining up on the horizon, the two siblings shared a comfortable silence in their car. A driver was gently steering the wheels while they were sitting in the back seat.


    Clark looked at his phone and saw a message.


    From: Claire


    I''m here in the venue. Where are you?


    Clark paused and stared at his screen for a while before typing a reply.


    To: Claire


    Almost there, save me a seat next to you.


    The entire music hall was occupied by the seniors when Clark and James arrived.


    Clark looked around and saw his friends sitting in the front chairs. Joey and Stephen were sitting together. The two were leaning their heads on the table like they were sleeping. Sofia was occupying the chair behind them. She just sat their with a sophisticated posture and observed the students. Meanwhile, all of the chairs have bags and Claire was on the other column separated by the aisle.


    "Hey, guys!" Clark waved his hands at them and walked towards Claire. Stephen and Joey looked up just waved their hands swiftly before they ducked their head back on the table.


    Claire smiled at him but did not say anything. He had noticed that among them, she was the quietest one. But, she was not definitely a shy type. Claire could talk with confidence, but she just mostly did not want to speak.


    "Glad you make it, Clark!" Sofia nodded her head with an approving expression on her face. Clark sheepishly smiled and noticed that it was just 15 minutes before 7 am.


    "What time did you arrive, Claire?" he whispered and leaned closer to her.


    "The school was not yet open when we arrived! Sofia went to my unit a wake me up." Claire murmured.


    "There was an announcement that the students who would attend this seminar will be excused in every class for the entire day. So we are all free this afternoon." Claire added in between a yawn.


    "So, do we have a scheduled match this afternoon?" Clark inquired.


    "Sofia said we will be stalking and observing this afternoon, we won''t be playing..." Claire answered.


    "St--stalking?" Clark cautiously clarified if he heard what the lady said.


    "Oh... she meant that we will search the other squads that have joined the tournament. Then, we will check their game styles and how they play. Knowing our enemy will give us an advantage. I think most of our opponents are also doing this," Claire shrugged.


    Clark only nodded his head.


    ''Winning a tournament is not really just simple as playing the game with best skill! It also involved stalking,'' he secretly noted.

 Chapter 10 - To Impress A Hot Lady

    "Noisy!" Sofia grunted at the chattering sound all over the place. In her table was an open notebook with a page drawn with several circles. If one would look closer, these could be interpreted as the map of the game. The circles were protective towers and the two stars in two corners were the bases. She was analyzing a game strategy! Perhaps, a perfect rotation technique for her team.


    Her fingers gripped tightly at her pen and proceeded to draw more lines and dots on the page. She even placed a label on the dots. M for the mage, T for the tank, A for the assassin, F for the fighter, and S for the shooter or marksman.


    Her short hair almost covered her face but she did not bother to tuck it away. The lady was so immersed in what she was doing.


    "Hey, what are you sketching?" one student sitting next to her asked curiously. The student took a peek at her notebook and saw the circles and different labels beside it.


    Sofia stopped writing and finally combed her short hair using her fingers.


    "It''s a plan," she answered and tapped her pen on the desk before she looked at the man. He was wearing big eyeglasses that covered most of his face.


    "A plan? That does not look like a plan to me!" the student frowned as his eyes was still glued on the notebook. He was the son of a famous architect in District 7. Thus, when Sofia told her of a plan, his mind directly assumed a housing plan sketch that his father usually draw.


    With the lines of his forehead, Sofia could deduce his confusion quickly. The man finally looked up and meet her gaze. She offered a small smile and carefully closed her notebook.


    "Ah! Sorry for disturbing you!" the boy snapped and realized that she was not his classmate. He had approached a stranger!


    "It''s okay. That was a gaming plan, she answered.


    Realization slowly appeared in his face. He had assumed wrongly!


    "A gaming plan! Are you taking an IT specialization? Was it like a design of a game environment? Sorry, when you said that it was a plan, I assumed it was a housing plan," the boy scratched the back of his neck and confessed with an apologetic smile. His fingers flew on his eyeglasses and adjusted them slightly.


    "To be precise, it''s a gameplay plan. I will be participating in a tournament on the 14th. Have you heard of it?" Sofia asked. Her tone was warm and friendly making the boy felt comfortable chatting with her.


    "Yeah. That is the hype topic of the school lately. It was the first-ever online tournament in our district. So, it''s a plan for that tournament. I don''t play these mobile games so I am not familiar with it," the boy responded as his right arm leaned on the chair.


    Their casual chat soon ended when a young woman, about in her mid-twenties entered the hall. Her long hair shined like expensive silk. She was wearing a fitted school staff uniform which accentuated the curves in her body. Despite the number of students inside, her fragrant perfume managed to linger in the air.


    Sofia eyed the young woman with an approving look. She liked how the woman carried herself in front of the student. The woman looked sophisticated. That was a dazzling entrance!


    Sofia was not alone with her judgment. Almost all male students turned their heads in the woman''s direction and the chatter noise quickly evaporated in the air. Her uniform combined with a pair of black 3-inch heels looked so perfect. This fashion sense was a head turner!


    "Students, it''s already 7 am. Our seminar will officially start. I will require to maintain this silence until the end of the seminar." The young woman spoke. Her voice was like a tune of melody which quickly enchanted the students inside.


    "Yes, adviser Lu." Some students spoke while others remained silent. Nevertheless, all attention was on her.


    Sofia felt her phone vibrated in her pocket. As she opened the unread message, she softly giggled. It was from the man occupying the seat in front of her.


    From: Stephen


    Damn! She is hot!


    Sofia lazily hit the letters on her screen as she typed her reply.


    To: Stephen


    Do your best in the tournament and she might acknowledge your existence.


    Soon, another message followed before she could unlock her phone.


    From: Stephen


    Why in the tournament? With my reputation, she probably knows me already. winks!


    Sofia smiled and took a deep breath.


    To: Stephen


    It should be TARNISHED reputation, right? If she knew, then there is already a NO stamp specially made for you.


    After sending her response, the young woman took a few steps closer towards their row.


    "I see that there are also junior students joining us today! I am delighted! But please, refrain from using your mobile phones unless it is an emergency." The young woman eyed Stephen with an authoritative look. Her approach confirmed that she indeed knew Stephen''s identity.


    Stephen slightly bowed at her and placed his phone down. The young woman gave him a satisfied look and went back to the center table.


    Just as Sofia thought that Stephen was done with his text, her phone vibrated once more!


    From: Stephen


    Woooo, I could get used to the scolding routine all day if it''s her!


    Sofia shook her head and unlocked her phone. She looked straight ahead and focused her attention on the young woman.


    "This seminar is for the preparation of you - graduating students, as you all would venture in the real world soon. But for the lower years, thank you for showing interest in this seminar today! Some of you would pursue college while others would go for a job. Make sure you listen and learn. Financial Literacy is broad but we will discuss the basics that would give you awareness on how to manage your money well." The young woman started and all students hurriedly took their pen and write notes. She continued to discuss the benefits and essentials of the learning that the students would gain in the seminar.


    Sofia remained quiet in her seat. She already knew everything that the young woman was saying. Her intention was not to attend the seminar for her own gain but to bring her teammates for them to learn. While she does not need to attend the seminar, she absolutely understood the importance of accompanying her members.


    "Right now, I would like to know who is aware of what is a stock and what is a bond? Anything that you know about this subject, feel free to raise your hand," the woman suddenly asked after more than an hour of talking. She waited patiently for any student who would volunteer to answer.


    One student finally raised a hand and spoke shyly, "Stock, is it the stock market and stock exchange?" The response was not an on-point answer but just a clarification about the term. But the woman still gave the student an appreciative smile.


    Sofia heard the boy next to her mumble, "Hey, why are you not taking notes?"


    She turned her head at him and gave the boy an emotionless smile.


    "Yes, it is. I am referring to that stock," the young woman nodded. But her attention shifted to the row where Sofia was sitting. She assumed that these two students were chitchatting.


    "Ehem... The young lady in the second row. Do you want to share your ideas with us?" the woman called Sofia''s attention.


    As Sofia turned her head back and made eye contact with her, she noticed the direct contempt in the woman''s expression. It was as if there was an unspoken prejudice written all over the young woman''s face. And Sofia never liked prejudices!


    Though she understood why the woman called her out. But it was not entirely her fault that she engaged in the quick chitchat. She hasn''t even spoken a single response to the boy sitting next to her!


    ''Stocks and bonds huh... I could discuss that for an entire day...'' Sofia pondered as she cast a knowing look. She slowly rose from her seat. Her hands were clasped together as her eyes scanned at the crowd of students.


    Most students are not looking at her. They were still busy taking notes. Yet some had prying eyes that felt like they were scrutinizing her.


    "Stocks and bonds are both investments," Sofia started and paused for a moment. She saw the unsatisfied expression of the young woman.


    "Yes, young miss... we have covered that already," the young woman said and urged her to continue.


    "Bonds, to say... is like writing an IOU, but not just as simple as getting a debt that is casually done among friends because it''s an investment. It is a loan form of investment an investor purchased from a company or government. It ends for a certain maturity period. Usually, it''s 10-30 years. But some bonds like notes and commercial paper or commercial bills would end earlier than that... depending on the terms of the bond. And also, sometimes, investors could pay their bonds earlier than the terms agreed on it. It''s called callable bonds. On the other hand, stocks are like buying ownership of a company. This is what the fellow student said about the stock market and stock exchange... When you buy a stock, you own a portion of a compaaa--ny..." Sofia slowly halted and realized that she had said too much information and covered unfamiliar terms for the students. In fact, she was about to say how to earn money with the two investments! Good thing she noticed the awkward atmosphere within the hall otherwise she would just continue to speak!


    ''What is up with this student? How does she know these terms? Why is she talking like a speaker of this seminar!?'' the young woman secretly thought while Sofia was still speaking her answer. It is to say that the young woman standing at the center table was also taken aback by her response.


    "Hehehe I read this on some article," Sofia quickly added before she sat down. She could only offer an alibi for there was no way a junior student like her would master this knowledge.


    "Hehe, thank you. This young miss is so keen. I am impressed!" the young woman finally eyed Sofia with deep respect.


    Sofia nodded at her recognition and felt that her phone was also vibrating in her pocket.


    It was another message from Stephen.


    From: Stephen


    I am impressed.


    ''This boy has no originality!'' Sofia mentally noted at Stephen''s message. He just texted her the same words that the young woman said! She quickly typed a reply.


    To: Stephen


    Free tips from me. That is how to impress a hot girl in front. Effective. Tested and proven. Try it!


    After a couple of hours, the young woman introduced a guest speaker. She looked like a respectable office lady in her short skirt and blue suit. Clark smiled after the speaker entered the hall.


    "You look so happy!" Claire whispered after noticing his unusual smile.


    "That''s my mom," Clark softly answered. There was a gentleness that sparks in his eyes.


    Claire stared at the woman and back at Clark. She did it twice as if she was comparing the two physical aspects.


    "Ohh... I see," Claire mumbled and finally noticed the resemblance of their facial feature. The two have the same shape of eyes and jaw.


    Clark''s mother gave off a dignified aura. She scanned the rows of students in front of her as if searching for someone. When her eyes darted at James, she slightly smiled. Then as she noticed Clark, her eyes widened, and smiled at him also.


    "Based on what I have overheard, I assumed that some of you had made an advance study about this seminar. That''s really admirable!" Clark''s mother commented and glanced at Sofia.


    "My mom likes Sofia..." Clark muttered.


    "Heh! Sofia is likable. As long as you are in her side. If you are on a wrong side, she could destroy you." Claire subconsciously responded but Clark was too focused on her mother''s lecture that she did not catch her words clearly.

 Chapter 11 - Clarks Lunch Invitation

    When the seminar was over, Clark urged his friends to meet his family yet nobody approved of his invitation.


    "It''s not a good idea to come over to your house, Clark. Well, at least not for me. You know my reputation right? I''m going to pass," Stephen shook his head as his face turned sour. He had known that Clark was a son of a rich family. Hence, he quickly thought that the parents would not like him. Especially with his situation in school that he was almost expelled. He would be seen as the bad influence type of friend that all parents would tell their kids to avoid hanging out!


    Their group was just about to go out of the hall but their pace was slower than a normal walk. Most students who were in rush had even bumped them several times but they did not mind it at all.


    "It''s just eating lunch in my place. Come on, guys! You must come! I already told dad that I will bring my friends over. My dad already agreed," his tone was almost in the boundary of pleading. For some reason, he was compelled to bring his friends with him.


    He repeatedly tried to pursue them, yet, Stephen was unwilling and won''t give in. Claire also gave him an ugly look.


    "No, Clark." Claire also rejected without saying any reason.


    "You see, my mom rarely comes home because of her job. It''s why we are celebrating." Clark explained hoping for them to understand the important occasion.


    "It should be a family matter, right? Not all celebration can be intruded. That would be inappropriate." Joey supported not going on his place.


    "No, no, no... Not at all! My brother would also bring his friends," Clark waved his hands simultaneously.


    Only Sofia remained indecisive. But it''s not because she could not come up with a decision. The lady was wearing AirPods on her ear and was listening to some podcast. Her attention was somewhere else! She was not aware of the ongoing dispute!


    Sofia felt a slight tug on her arm. As she looked around, she saw Clark''s determined face.


    "Sof, let''s eat lunch in my place. My family is celebrating today and they cooked plenty of foods," he smiled at her with expectant eyes.


    "Sure! An invitation from the son of a rich family, this is once in a lifetime!" Sofia playfully said as she put away her phone and AirPods.


    "Ehh? We are going?" Stephen looked at Sofia with furrowed brows and few lines on his forehead. The girl just waved her hand as if it was nothing.


    "Yes, our driver is waiting in the school''s parking space. Let''s go!" Clark walked faster and lead them ahead.


    "His parents will just look down on us," Stephen whispered at Sofia.


    "You think too much. Aren''t you the one judging Clark''s parents before meeting them. Don''t generalize," Sofia retorted with a serious gaze.


    "Ahh... You are probably right. Then, I can only hope that this would not turn out bad," Stephen shrugged.


    "I don''t feel like going. I haven''t joined dining the rich and it would just make me conscious of how I eat," Claire also approached Sofia after Stephen.


    Sofia patted Claire''s shoulder, "Practice socializing, if we go to the pro scene, we will be required to socialize and eat with different people. Things will change so it''s better to learn to engage with the upper class."


    Learn to engage with the upper class! Claire bit her lips and her face looked grieved. She could not imagine herself socializing with the elites.


    "I''ll show you the ropes of how to build a company from scratch. Soon, we will stand at the top. But before we get there, we would need to socialize with different types of people. You''ll be fine," Sofia added and gave her friend a reassuring look.


    "Are you planning on building a company? Is it why you are so interested in attending this seminar?" Claire queried.


    Sofia nodded at her and smiled, "In the future, our group will become one. It''s too early to decide which company should we venture. We need to have adequate knowledge and funds. Just have confidence, we are still young. The possibilities are endless."


    ''The possibilities are endless!'' Claire breathed some air and thought of their future goals. It seems impossible but Sofia''s tone was too convincing that she started to picture out an image of herself owning a company!


    "How did you know these things? You seemed so different since yesterday, Sof. Last week, all your talks are about tanks and the great combination of skills to kill an opponent. But now, you are talking about business!" Claire pointed out her observations.


    "Well, last week, I have mastered everything about how to use a tank. Now, I realized that this routine is a liability. I charge my phone and buy internet to play. It''s all for the sake of entertainment and there is no profit from it. So, it is good to convert this knowledge as an asset. I will make sure that we will benefit with each time we spent in the game." Sofia glanced at her and slightly smile.


    As the group arrived at the school''s parking lot, a driver wearing a formal uniform quickly hopped out from a gold seven-seater SUV. The driver swiftly opened the door and greeted them.


    From the looks of the car, all of them could guess that it was newly purchased. Perhaps, a new edition unit. Sofia also remembered in her past life seeing this car. But she never owned an SUV.


    After they settled inside the car, the driver smoothly drove towards Clark''s house. They were too busy paying attention to their phone that the ride was too silent. The kind of silence that only they would feel comfortable sharing.


    Every now and then, Clark''s driver would take a peek at them in the mirror. It was the first time that his young master would bring over a group of friends. The driver just turned on the music and did not disturb his passengers.


    Sofia glanced at the road and noticed the changes in housing designs. From commercial buildings, they coursed on the road with exquisite and residential type houses. After several minutes, the car turned left and entered into an exclusive villa until it stopped at the mansion.


    "We are here." the driver announced and went out. But before he could open the door, Joey already jumped out of the car.


    Joey gave the driver a timid smile, "It''s okay, Mister. We are not rich. I am not used to people opening car doors for me."


    The driver did not speak a response but he respectfully bowed his head.


    "Rosen - Zhang residence," Claire read the tiny plaque placed on the wall. The letters were written in a stylistic calligraphy imbued with color gold paint. A status symbol indicated that the residents were not simply rich but also distinguished in the community for charitable works.


    "Your last name is Zhang or Rosen?" Claire asked. Until now, they have not known their full identity. But it was normal as it had just been days since they knew each other.


    "It''s Clark Rosen Zhang. My middle name is Rosen," Clark mumbled as the group followed his lead. Marbles and pebble stones were arranged on the pavement giving the steps a unique decoration.


    "Let me guess, rich kid! This is your residential house, and you have many more houses for vacations, right?" Sofia teased and Clark nodded in confirmation. Affluent people really owned many properties!


    "Wow! So much money, ehhh!" Claire playfully smacked his arms.


    "Ouch! You don''t have to get physical on me, Claire!" Clark rubbed his arms easing the pain from Claire''s hands. Some redness quickly appeared.


    "Ohh the Zhang! You are really rich! You own that chemical company!" Joey commented as if recollecting the details that he knew about Clark''s family.


    "Nahh... It''s my father''s business," Clark plainly answered.


    The house is a typical huge rich house with a modern design. They caught a glimpse of a flowering garden and neatly trimmed plants on the side. The lawn was wide and perfectly maintained with water sprinklings for the grass.


    "Do you have a pool?" Joey curiously asked Charles.


    "Here? No, we only have a beach house somewhere in Boracay Island," he grinned shyly after seeing the surprised look on his friends'' faces. He didn''t mean to sound boastful but the topic has been opened and before he could realize it, his mouth had already answered his friend''s question.


    "Say whaaat?" Joey dramatically prolonged his words as his eyes widened from the information he just heard.


    "Kidnap this boy and ask for ransom! HAHAHA" Stephen joked and Clark''s rich laughter followed.


    "Well, speaking of kidnap... do you have bodyguards?" Claire quickly inquired while looking from side to side.


    "I have. They are mostly special agents and are just everywhere," Clark admitted.


    "I told you, guys. This is a residential house and he got many more houses around the globe! Bodyguards and monies... Rich kids life! But you lack one thing, Clark!" Sofia smiled as her eyes scanned the overall design of the house.


    "What does he lacks?" Stephen muttered.


    "He lacks women!" Sofia giggled.


    "Ehhh... women? I do have an ex. But right now, I don''t want to engage in a relationship." Clark spoke softly.


    "Yeah, me too. My last break up was too messy that I just want to lay low," Joey sympathized with him.


    "What can we say, one is from a rich family and the other is an athlete. That''s completely a definition of girl''s magnet!" Claire snickered.


    "HAHA You''re probably right, Claire. But wait until you hear from this bad boy''s love life!" Joey pointed to Stephen putting him in the hot seat.


    "AHHH... Yes, another magnet!" Claire shook her head and throw Stephen a glance.


    "Ohh, please! I never had a relationship!" Stephen denied and glared at Joey.


    "Yes, not a relationship. Just a series of flings," Joey chuckled.


    "I can''t help it. Girls like hot boys like me." Stephen smirked.


    They all laugh as they entered the house. Expensive paintings were decorated on the wall. The kind of paintings that can only be bought in auctions. Unique designs of vases holding fresh flowers on the center table until their eyes darted to the old man reading something on his laptop. Presumably, Clark''s father.


    "Dad! My friends are here!" Clark confirmed their presumption when the old man looked up and waved his hand at them.


    "Hello, you kids must be hungry already! The food is ready but Jasmine has not yet arrived. Who knows if she was caught up with endless chitchat in the school!" Clark''s father joked as if ridiculing Clark''s mother.


    On the large antique wall clock, the time was already 12:18 pm.


    "Guys, this is my father, Charles Zhang," Clark stated and the group slightly bowed at the old man.


    "Dad, this is Sofia, Claire, Joey, and Stephen. They are not my classmates. Oh, Claire and I are in the same P.E class... Uhmmn, We are on the same squad. And our group will be competing in the Tournament on the 14th," Clark continued to introduce them quickly.


    "Feel at home," The old man said and gestured a handshake from each of them which the group obliged.


    They noticed a sound coming from the outside, laughing loudly. Some are giggling and snickering.


    "Wahaha, I got it!"


    "Wait a second, retreat... hehe"


    "On my signal, one, two, go!"


    "Attaack! HAHAHA"


    "It''s James and his friends, they are playing in the balcony," Clark told his friends.


    As they were about to get comfortable on their seats, Clark''s mother arrived. Charles smiled gently at his wife and spoke, "Welcome home, dear!"


    "Ahh... It''s good to be back! I volunteered to be the speaker of the school''s seminar so that I can swing by to you. How are you and the boys?" Jasmine said as the couple shared a tight embrace.


    "It''s good to see you back. The boys invited their friends." Charles said.


    "Hello, I see you all in the seminar! I am Jasmine Rosen. Although I am married to Charles, I kept my maiden name. Hehe" Jasmine greeted the group warmly.


    "Thank you for having us," Sofia spoke formally.


    "You''re welcome! Let''s eat! Sorry, I have a long conversation with your school head. She is an acquaintance and we kinda have a catch-up chitchat. hehe," Jasmine looked at them with an apologetic gaze. There was also no air of arrogance with her tone. From far usual rich wife aura. All they could sense is the friendly and warm smile the woman is giving them.

 Chapter 12 - Coincidental Meeting With Joeys Ex

    Far from their expectations, it was not really a family lunch but a grand celebratory buffet dining. Staff and waiters were standing at a center table where different dishes were placed. The food was mostly an international cuisine.


    There were other well-dressed old guests also. Some were men in suits with ladies on their side.


    "I told you, this lunch is prepared by my father. And he hired an international chef to cook all these meals. He also invited his friends in the business." Clark whispered to his friends after they all got their food served.


    "Indeed."


    "Let''s eat!"


    Jasmine and Charles approached the table where their eldest son, James, and his friends were occupying. At one glance, anyone could tell that his friends were also from the rich and reputable families around District 7.


    "Errr, this is awkward," Joey mumbled as his eyes cast on one of James'' friends.


    "What''s the matter?" Clark inquired


    "Your brother''s friend... that girl wearing the purple hairband. That''s the ex that I just mentioned." Joey answered.


    At first, he just felt like there was a familiar laugh when he heard James and his friends laughing on the balcony. But it''s a distinctive sound, one that only carved in his memories. He tried to dismiss the familiarity of the sound. Yet, when they went to the dining hall, he realized that it was really his ex.


    Claire swirled her glass of soda and secretly looked at the girl. "What a small world! HAHA It looks like she did not notice you yet. Did you too have a bad break-up?"


    Joey shook his head, "It was worst than a bad break up. Remember when I said that I have an injury? My injury was not related to a sports accident. It was because she hired men to beat me."


    All of them went silent and gasped for air. They were taken aback. Joey just opened up something so personal and tragic about his life.


    "Hehehe it''s a long story. A romance that led to enmity," Joey clicked his tongue before he turned his attention to his plate.


    "Did you cheat on her? For a girl to hire people to beat you, that means she is really angry," Claire mumbled.


    "It was her who cheat on me. But she did not want to break up. I insisted on leaving her, so she got angry. Though, I have no regrets on leaving her," Joey explained. "Let''s not kill the celebratory mood with my past relationship," he added.


    "Sorry about that," the group whispered their sympathies and started eating. They shifted their attention from the people around them to the food on the table. No one spoke for a few minutes.


    "Good thing the foods are delicious, Eat many!" Sofia tried to revived their mood and passed a bowl of meat to Joey. The nodded in agreement. The taste was superb!


    Just as they were about to finish their food, Joey''s ex caught his familiar figure and finally noticed him. The lady haughtily walked towards their table without minding the confused glances that her friends threw at her.


    "What are you doing here?" the ex interrogated. She placed her hands on her waist and stood like a dignified person.


    Joey did not need to look who was speaking. He slumped his shoulder and leaned on the chair. His eyes were still on his plate as he answered, "I am one of the guests."


    "One of the guests? Well, not anymore! Get out!" the lady screamed. People quickly turned their heads towards her to see what was happening.


    Charles and Jasmine excused themselves from their friends and immediately left their table to approached the ruckus.


    "What''s wrong?" Charles asked. He recognized the girl. He glanced at the other table where James was occupying yet, his eldest son was nowhere to be found.


    "Uncle, I don''t want this person here. Get him out, please!" the lady said in a tone that demands urgency.


    "Dear, they are Clark''s guests... stop--" Jasmine was trying to smoothen the situation but she abruptly stopped in mid-sentence after the young lady took a glass on the table and smashed it on the floor!


    CRASHH!


    The sound of crashing and breaking echoed the entire hall.


    Sofia watched closely her group members as she sensed that it would be getting out of hand at any minute. Clark was looking at the floor indicating that he was greatly embarrassed. Stephen and Claire were also upset as they glared at the lady. Only Joey gave a blank face.


    "Thank you for the food. It''s almost 1 pm, my group needs to practice. We have a great time! Please don''t mind us! This is just a misunderstanding between schoolmates!" Sofia smiled towards Clark''s parents and looked around the other guests. She gathered her legs that were lazily stretched and stood from her seat.


    Clark cast her a look of gratitude. "Mom, I will be practicing at Sofia''s place," he softly informed his parents.


    "Okay, dear." Jasmine smiled at her son. Charles also nodded but did not speak.


    The rest of the members did not say a word. Claire and Stephen took a gulp from their glasses and slowly wiped their lips. They easily got the hint that they needed to leave before anything bad could happen. Joey just gave a quick look at his ex with his emotionless face.


    As they were about to leave, Sofia also stared at Joey''s ex. "Hope we meet at the tournament next week," her voice was cold, devoid of any sense of friendliness.


    Upon hearing what Sofia had just said, the lady stood frozen. She felt some chills in her spine. Her sense of superiority almost got crashed. She even pulled a chair and sat down.


    ~


    In the car, Clark awkwardly stayed quiet. He felt sorry and did not know what to say. The driver could also sense the tense atmosphere so he just turned the volume of his radio louder.


    "The food is delicious, Clark. So, the lunch was worth it. Hehe," Joey was the first to break the silence.


    "Darn! Your ex is crazy, bro! Breaking glass in front of the host! It''s good that you left her!" Stephen tilted his head while remembering what had just happened.


    "I know right!" Joey laughed and gave them a goofy smile.


    "Sorry guys. That lady is the daughter of my father''s client. So, we cannot offend her. So sorry, Joey." Clark finally found a courage to speak.


    "Ahh, I know her family background. Don''t worry about it," Joey assured Clark that he was not offended.


    "That ex of yours, she will be participating in the tournament, right?" Sofia asked calmly.


    "Yeah, they were on my brother''s squad," Clark answered.


    Sofia felt her phone vibrated in her pocket. As she opened the screen, there was a notification in her mail. It was a message from the Tournament Committee.


    "The elimination round of the tournament is a battle royal," she spoke while staring at the image of the game map. Above the map, there was a label written. 40-Player-Map.


    The map was wider and there were 8 bases which mean there would be 8 squads that would compete in one map for a single round. The last surviving squad that could manage to protect their base or destroy all the opponent''s bases would win. Each base has only three protective towers. From the look of it, it would be a game of protecting and defending style.


    "The elimination round would be a passive-aggressive gameplay!?" Stephen sounded.


    "This would be more exciting! Forty players in one map to compete in a single round. That''s a good strategy," Sofia commented.


    "So, if we don''t win in the 40-Player-Map... we cant proceed to the next round?" Clark nervously asked.


    "AHH, don''t call the bad luck! We will win!" Claire smacked the boy on the shoulder.


    "It''s an elimination round. The point of this match is to eliminate many participants. This is not just a battle of skills and strategies but also a battle of luck," Joey pondered.


    As they arrived at Sofia''s unit, they proceed on their plan. All they do was searched every squad that would be participating in the tournament. One by one, they watched their gameplays and studied a possible strategy to use against them.


    Sofia took a notebook and even make notes of the highlights of the game. They were too engrossed that they have not realized the time. The sun quickly set and the moon and stars shone in the sky. But the group did not stop until they realized that they have been yawning several times.


    Outside the building where Sofia lived, an innocent driver had been answering anxious calls from Clark''s parents. He was facing a great dilemma.


    "Where are you? Where is my son? Is everything alright?"


    "Boss, your son went inside this building together with his friends earlier. And I haven''t seen him get out." the driver answered cautiously. He was just inside the car waiting for Clark to come out but even his shadow never showed up.


    "Make sure to bring Clark home before 11 PM. Or else I will teach the both of you a lesson!"


    "Yes boss! I will contact the young master now!"


    Back in Sofia''s place, she reflected something. In her past life as the CEO, Lisa was used to working late. Reading and signing contracts as well as planning company investments. Now that she become Sofia, she realized that there were not many changes in her life. The only difference was the driving force within her towards achieving success.


    She caught a glimpse of the time on her phone and realized that it was already late.


    11:05 PM


    "Call your parents and tell them that you are staying over for tonight." she suddenly stated.


    "AHHH..." Clark jumped in surprise after seeing the time. He was even more worried when he saw more than 20 missed calls from his parents and driver. He accidentally turned his personal phone into silent mode!


    The last message that was shown in the notification was from his driver.


    "Young Master, come out already. Your parents will beat me if I can''t bring you home before 11 PM. You need to go home."


    "Guys, I have to go home!" Clark worriedly scanned his phone and read the messages. He slowly looked for his father''s contact number to call him. Just as he was about to press the call button, an incoming call notification appeared on his screen.


    "Clark, where are you? It''s past 11 PM already!"


    It was his father''s voice on the other line.


    "Dad, I forgot the time. We were planning for the tournament," Clark quickly answered.


    "Ahh... I instructed your driver to bring you before 11 PM. You have us all worried!" his mother''s voice followed.


    "Sorry to make you worry, mom! I will be staying over in Sofia''s unit. It''s just near the school, mom."


    "Alright, it''s better if you take a rest. Be careful."


    Clark sighed in relief after the phone call ended.


    "Are we staying here for the night?" Stephen yawned.


    "Your place is just near. You can also go home," Sofia told him.


    "Ehh.. my body is tired. I''m staying... hehe," Stephen quickly mumbled and laid down his body on the floor.


    "The two of you can use my unit. I have two larger sofas. Come!" Claire pointed Stephen and Joey to follow her but Stephen did not move on his spot.


    "Errr, I''ll go," Charles volunteered.


    In the end, Joey and Charles slept in Claire''s unit. Claire and Sofia shared a bed while they threw a blanket and pillow for Stephen who was already asleep on the floor.


    "I felt like my mind is drained. I''m sleeping now," Claire stretched her body comfortably told Sofia. She then quickly went on her bed.


    Sofia just smiled and grabbed her gaming chair. She opened her computer as she planned to continue to watch gameplays.


    "You''re not sleeping yet?" Claire called her.


    "Maybe later!" Sofia answered and placed her headphones on. She continued to write notes and sketched some formations that only she could understand.


    The night quickly turned into dawn. Sofia finally finished watching the gameplays of more than a hundred squad participants. She mostly fast-forwards the videos and just observed the clashing and dynamics of the squads.


    She closed her eyes for a while and leaned her body on the chair. Her body was totally exhausted.


    Slowly, she leaned her head on the table and fell asleep. Her fingers were still on the mouse but she no longer mind how uncomfortable her position was.

 Chapter 13 - The Elimination Round Planning

    Sofia did not even bother to close the door of her bedroom. She had been so sleepy that after her head touched the edge of the table, her consciousness drifted away.


    Just as she fell asleep, Stephen was also awakened by the coldness of the floor. He slowly stood and stretched his body. A yawn escaped from his lips.


    He was tempted to open his phone but as he examined his pocket, the device was not there! His eyes blinked a few times and scanned the area until his eyes darted at the widely opened door of Sofia''s bedroom.


    From his location, he could see the girl was curling on the table with her head touched on her keyboard.


    Stephen furrowed his brows and grabbed the blanket from the floor. He quietly walked inside and throw the blanket to Sofia.


    The girl hugged the linen and a small smile appeared on her lips.


    "You don''t need to work so hard." Stephen''s hoarse voice sounded inside the room. He saw the notebook containing Sofia''s sketches dropped beside her feet. On the corner of the page, he saw few letters scribbled on it.


    LZYS


    He picked up the notebook and placed it on the monitor. Then, Stephen quickly went out and closed the bedroom door. He swiftly walked back to the sofa and did not think of looking at his phone.


    "Did Joey and Clark went home last night?" He wondered while his body comfortably laid down. He let his arms rest on his forehead and decided to sleep again.


    Thursday, Feb 9, 2017, 5:00 AM


    Despite the lack of sleep, gamers like them can actually survive and continue the day without proper sleep.


    Claire was the first to wake up in the morning. As she opened her eyes, she immediately looked at the table and saw Sofia sleeping on the chair.


    This scene slightly surprised her after noticing the blanket in Sofia. She remembered that they placed it on Stephen before the went to sleep!


    "Hah!" Claire pursed her lips. She walked out of the door and slightly glanced at Stephen.


    After a while, Claire went out of the building and walked towards the convenience store. True to its name, the establishment was always open 24/7 giving the students like her the convenience they needed.


    "Good morning, Claire!" the salesman greeted her with familiarity. She had been a regular customer of the store that she already memorized the shifting of its staff.


    "Good morning! My friends are staying over at my place, may I take out 5 cups of plain coffee? Add some single packs of creamer and sugar also. I don''t know their preference. And 5 servings of bacon and egg sandwich," Claire narrated. She usually orders 2 cups of coffee with two packs of sugar and 3 creamers. Yet, she discovered the other day that Sofia''s taste preference had changed. Her friend had been drinking pure black coffee.


    A weird taste but Claire did not question it. She just guessed that it could be because of Sofia''s lack of sleep that the lady wanted a strong coffee than the usual creamy one.


    "Playing games?" the salesman smiled at her offering small talk while her bacon was still in the fryer.


    "We did not play. We were watching the gameplays," Claire responded.


    The salesman muttered a remark but she was still sleepy and did not catch what he said. She was in daze.


    Outside, there were a group of students jogging on the side of the road. The dawn gradually breaks into daylight. Claire silently watched the passerby while waiting for her order.


    After several minutes, the salesman packed everything she ordered in one bag. Claire made her payments using her online payment app, then, she quickly returned to Sofia''s unit.


    She knew that the guys have classes, so, if they refused to wake up, she will have to force them to wake up!


    As she entered, the lingering smell of coffee dominated the place. The strong coffee aroma awakened Stephen.


    "Hey!" he greeted and walked towards the table.


    "AHH..." Claire jumped in surprise. Stephen just laughed at her reaction.


    "This is so thoughtful of you, my friend! Why is it five? Joey and Clark did not go back to their home last night?" Stephen commented when he noticed the 5 cups of coffee and a bag full of food.


    "You''re welcome, Stephen. Clark and Joey are on my unit. Could you wake up the two?" Claire asked.


    "Oh, I see. It''s just a floor down, right?" Stephen clarified.


    "Yes," Claire mumbled as she also walked towards Sofia.


    Waking Joey up was easy. A light nudged on his shoulder and he already opened his eyes.


    However, Clark''s situation was a different feat.


    Stephen had been shaking the boy''s body side to side. Yet, Clark did not even show any hint of stirring from his rest.


    "What the heck is this guy?! AHH, Rich kids are really troublesome!" Stephen had almost kick Clark out from the sofa that he was sleeping. The boy just buried his head on his pillow not moving an inch. He was fully undisturbed despite the shaking that Stephen was doing!


    "CLARK! WAKE UP!!! BOYYY! HEY, WAKE UP!" Stephen shouted near his ear as if calling his soul from its deep slumber.


    Nothing! There was no physical response or whatsoever from Clark.


    Joey helped Stephen, but their efforts did not have any result. The two sighed in frustration and went back to Sofia''s unit.


    "Clark won''t wake up!" Stephen hatefully stated. He had never met someone who could sleep like Clark!


    Claire who was about to bite her sandwich paused halfway and put her food down. She silently walked towards her unit, leaving the two guys without a word.


    "Dude, it''s almost 6 AM. You better wake up or I will spill a cup of coffee on you!" Claire threatened while standing on her door.


    As if by some miracle, or perhaps a survival instinct, Clark bolted awake. He gulped and stared at Claire with fear.


    "HA! Good, you are awake!" Claire commented and left.


    She assumed that Clark would follow her yet when she turned her head around, the boy was nowhere near her! The hallway was empty!


    Claire gritted her teeth and stormed back to her unit. She saw that Clark had gone back to sleep!


    "You really want me to pour a hot coffee on you?!" her voice was too loud that her friends in Sofia''s unit could hear it.


    Clark quickly stood straight and blinked his eyes to adjust from the light. "I''m awake... I''m awake," the boy mumbled. He slightly walked out of the apartment.


    Sofia woke up and saw the two guys on the table.


    "Is Claire shouting? It''s too early to be angry..." she trailed and sat on the chair opposite Stephen''s seat.


    The guys stared at her with an awkward expression. The dark circles below her eyes have gone bigger and there a red pimple at the center of her forehead.


    "The civilization made another branch," Stephen laughed.


    Sofia absentmindedly traced her fingers on her jawline and frowned.


    "It''s on your forehead, now." Stephen casually told her and took a pack of sugar and creamer. He carefully mixed it on his coffee.


    Sofia slowly rubbed her forehead and felt dejected. "I need beauty rest after our tournament. A week of sleeping is a must," she muttered.


    Joey quietly ate his sandwich. His eyes observed the two. While Stephen added sugar and creamer to his coffee, Sofia just gulped the liquid.


    "That is so bitter!" Joey finally spoke after seeing how Sofia drunk her coffee without any sugar.


    "It is." Sofia nodded and picked a strip of bacon from the pack.


    Joey gawked at her in disbelief. Nobody drank a coffee like that!


    Sofia was not aware of Joey''s reaction and continued to drink her coffee until it was finished. She then opened her phone and check her unread emails. One particular message caught her eye, she saw the tournament''s update.


    ~


    40-Player-Map - One round game. One survivor squad could proceed to the next match.


    The line up of Contenders:


    The Chronos Squad vs. Elite Players Squad vs. Legendary Gamers Squad vs. Noob Amateurs Squad vs. Beast Squad vs. Pilot Gaming Squad vs. Hidden Wind Squad vs. HyperCarry Squad


    Submit your squad''s official player for the elimination round before 3 PM today.


    ~


    The last note was the squad who got more than 5 members. Since every match, there were only 5 members required, these squads were required to select official members for the elimination round.


    In the next round, they can appoint other players. This is the benefit of a squad with many members. Players can just rest and watch their fellow members play.


    Unfortunately, for the squad like Sofia''s who are just on the minimum members, they won''t be resting. All of them would need to play all the way to the finals!


    Sofia took her notebook then quickly flipped the pages, searching for the opposing squads'' names that they would soon be facing for the elimination round.


    She reviewed all the game highlights that she had been scribbling all night.


    One by one, her eyes were meticulous, scrutinizing every strength and weakness of their opponent. Not long after, she started planning their formation.


    Clark, Joey, and Stephen called her to say goodbye. She just waved her hand and did not look at them. Her fingers were fast, drawing the same circles with labels on the page.


    It was a bit tricky since there would be 8 bases inside the map. For them to win, they need to destroy the 7 bases. Or they could defend their towers and wait as their enemy fight each other.


    Sofia had not also neglected another possibility that could occur with the kind of map that they would be using.


    With the 8 squads competing, some squads may form an alliance to destroy the others first. Then, they would cross the bridge after their team would be left. After all, they were gamers. And the possibility inside the game is infinite.


    One could find a wall but would also look for a loophole to escape on it.


    Sofia thought carefully, ''Is alliance applicable in the Chronos squad? If we will not find an ally, then, we would be an easy target! What should be the best option to do?''


    After several minutes of careful consideration, she came up with an answer. ''Although I am confident with my skill in using a tank my teammates have not grasped their full potential yet. Their abilities are still developing. I could try to contact these squads and offer a possible alliance.''


    She immediately sent a brief chat message to the squad''s other leaders.


    But soon, Sofia was slapped with the reality of the Chronos squad status. The response she got from the leaders was all rejection and ridicule.


    They were just a newly formed group. They have no solid gameplay to back up their standing. In the eyes of the leaders, her squad would be seen as a freeloader!


    Her squad was nowhere near the prestige and reputation of the other squads. Hence, nobody wanted to be their ally!


    Sofia was not upset. She just combed her short hair and twitch her stiff shoulders. The situation was understandable.


    No squad leader would want to team up with a group that could potentially let them sink! Their decisions were all reasonable.


    Sofia sighed deeply, "There has to be another way."


    Her mind slowly drifted to the crucial games that had overturned the result of the entire match. One player had created a legendary combination of a hooking skill and the teleportation command. A genius IQ in gaming.


    This was in the memories of the real Sofia. Perhaps, the original owner of her body idolized these kinds of players and made her inspired to work hard to practice her gameplay.


    For the entire day, Sofia read all the in-game characters'' data. From their skills to their cooldowns. She also examined the inventory items that the characters could buy during the game. She checked all the costs and the cooldowns.


    "If I can''t make an alliance with the other squads, I will make the game allied on us."

 Chapter 14 - Name Your Salary?

    Friday came and Saturday passed. The group buried their attention to practice the game. They experimented with a lot of different skill set combos.


    "If I use my assassin''s skill to silence the opponent, and Clark would follow through my attack then use his mage''s skill to stun the target, that combo would leave no escape! A sure kill!" Claire discussed.


    "True. Silenced + Stunned. It''s a one of a fatal combo as long as your actions are synchronized." Joey nodded several times.


    "It''s a good combo to kill an opponent if the map is the usual 5 members against 5 opponents. But for the elimination round, there are 35 enemies... we can''t execute the combo," Sofia was also restless. She had been telling her members everything that she could picture out to happen during the elimination round.


    "The last possibility that could happen in this 40 - Player - Map is that our squad will be facing against the 7 others. 1 vs 7. All of them will target us first. We have no gaming records or any reputation. We are newbies, so, it''s natural that they would think that it is easy for our squad to get eliminated first."


    Claire felt the hair on her neck stood straight! Clark''s face turned sour! Stephen and Joey gasped an air!


    If all the squads would target them first, the situation would be very difficult! 7 squads meant it would be 35 players vs 5 of them! How are they going to survive?


    Even if they would burn incense in all temples around district 7 for them to gather huge luck, would it be enough? Can they win if they would really face 35 players?


    The four members went silent. They don''t need to ask how Sofia came up with the possibility. They were all gamers. It was easy for them to imagine pseudo-alliance. Even in other games that hosted cross-server guild wars, such alliances already exist!


    All of them were waiting for Sofia to talk further. To give the group some directions. Since she opened the possibility, there should be a plan on how to escape defeat!


    Of course, everything was already prepared by Sofia. This was the reason why she was sleepless. With the pen in her hand, she carefully pointed one bigger circle on her note and underline three smaller circles.


    "One base, three towers... these are all the defense that the game would provide for us. Creeps for the offense. But creeps movements are not controlled by players. These small soldiers would just stay few distances away from the tower to attack an opponent within their range. To say, they act like the tower guardians. They won''t move forward for there are too many bases. It could be also the limitation of the game for having so many squads clashing on one map. Now, if all the 7 squads would attack us, our priority is to protect the towers. If one tower would collapse, we will be invaded easily. It is already good as defeat."


    The four of them nodded. They were listening intently while Sofia is pointing to her sketch with circles and labels.


    "All of you must secure your character''s HP, thus each one of you must need a shield. A defensive item. An armor or anything that could absorb damage. Just one item. The rest, I will take it all the defense. To counter their damage, we also need to regenerate. The best strategy is to abandon the fighter and we will switch to support. By abandoning the fighter, we have to avoid clashing against them. For the support, we need healer type that could boost our HP."


    "I can be the support user, but how can we maximize our damage if there is no fighter? If we take a defensive item, our damage would also be lower than several points!" Joey asked.


    Among them, Joey could play any role in the game. He had vast experience in gaming as he was also playing other similar real-time strategic games. He was aware that if one offensive item will be substituted with a defense one, the character may increase its resistance to incoming attacks but it also meant that the character''s damage when casting counter-attacks would decrease!


    Sofia also knew his worries. She gently waved her hand to quickly stop the boy from his concern.


    "It''s fine. I will maximize our damage."


    Joey wanted to ask if how could Sofia use her tank to maximize damage? But he zipped his mouth and did not question her. He knew she had made a consideration for her plans. A consideration that he was confident would work for them!


    Sofia continued explaining, "The best thing about this 40 - Player - Map is that... it does not have a respawn command. I have read it in the rules of the elimination round. Players can no longer come back after dying once. They can only wait for a complete victory or defeat of their squad. If the player is killed, the squad would become crippled. This is how we fight them. We will take advantage of the no respawn rule. Claire, you are the assassin user, make sure to kill as many players as you can!"


    Kill as many as you can! An order of complete rampage!


    "A bloodbath..." Clark absentmindedly whispered.


    "Yes, a bloodbath. Hide and kill. Try to sneak into the enemy''s territory and gather their gold by killing their creeps. That would be your strategy, Claire. An assassin''s mastery is not just to eliminate but to annihilate." Sofia looked up. Her phone was vibrating but she did not mind picking the device.


    It''s just that she was in the middle of her explanation! She can''t afford to be disturbed by whoever was calling or texting her.


    "Now, for the marksman, deal maximum damage. If I signal a launch attack, do not hold back and use all the available skills you have. When there are no more skills to use, give me a signal of retreat." Sofia looked up and met Stephen''s eyes. The latter nodded his head in acknowledgment.


    "Clark, you are a mage. You don''t need to fight in close combat. So, just stay on the base. You can summon three elements and use them. Wind, fire, and water. If you see many players are going towards us, just cast your fire and burn them. If the fire is not available, then, use the water to drown them. If the two are still in cooldown, knocked them using the wind. Your skill is very useful against many enemies. And if you die, we may lose our chance to win." Sofia declared.


    "Okay, I will stay in the base. I don''t want to die also," Clark scratched his head and smiled shyly. Mages were the weakest character and could easily die in a gank. And Clark''s mastery was not as good as the other members yet.


    "Joey, playing the support role will not be easy in a chaotic battle. You need to time the heal perfectly. One mistake could cost death." Sofia glanced at Joey.


    "I know, I will pay attention and focus on all of our HP," Joey answered.


    "Good! For our gameplay formation, I will take the top lane tower, marksman and support in the middle lane, our assassin in the bottom lane, lastly, the mage in the base. This is the full defense formation. We will not play aggressively. We will wait for them to initiate an attack on us." Sofia finished. She suddenly felt thirsty after talking too much.


    Talking and giving commands, these things were not new to her. When she was the CEO Lisa, it was a part of her daily routine. Investor meetings and client conferences were part of her daily calendar.


    Sofia absentmindedly licked her dry lips and brushed her short hair with her hand.


    One pair of eyes sitting opposite her gulped and secretly stared at her face. No, a particular region on her face. Yet, Sofia was oblivious of this prying gaze.


    "Okay, this should be exciting. Don''t be nervous, guys, The purpose of this game is to enjoy. Of course, with the awaiting prize, it would be a more competitive and thrilling experience. Let''s do our best!" Stephen grinned.


    Everyone smiled. They had been spending time in Sofia''s unit. The group even cooked food and had felt at home.


    Sofia did not mind them also. Normally, there should be one place for them to stay. Pro players were like that. They owned one facility just for them. The training area, gaming room, veterans, and newbie lounges... But right now, it was too far for their team.


    Despite Clark''s riches, he also managed to mingle them like siblings. His personal driver had also stopped waiting for him in the car.


    Sofia let the driver wait for Clark inside her unit. Now there were six of them hanging out together.


    Clark''s driver became their instant personal timekeeper. He would remind them of the time while watching the zeal and burning passion of the youth in the game. Something he could relate to during the days of his youth. Those were the times when one was not aware of how cruel the real world is.


    On Sunday afternoon, while they were still having a discussion about their strategies, a stranger came to the reception of the building, looking for Sofia.


    The reception lady quickly informed her that she had a visitor waiting.


    Their group meeting finally paused as she went outside to meet the stranger. When Sofia arrived at the reception area, she looked confused. There was only a woman, about the same age as her, drinking tea.


    The woman saw her and was smiling from ear to ear. Sofia waved her hand and joined on her table.


    "You were looking for me?" Sofia asked directly.


    "Yes, my squad leader sent me here to hire you. Join our squad? We are competing on the 14th ---" the lady spoke but Sofia raised her hand to stop her.


    "I am also competing on the 1st Online Tournament in our district. We might meet in there." Sofia interrupted sparing the woman the effort to explain to her.


    "Oh... hehe well, this is awkward! My squad leader sent me last week but I have colds and so, it''s only today that I came to you. I am not also paying attention to the participants," the woman scratched her head and looked apologetic.


    Sofia tilted her head and was in deep thought. In her mind, if the lady went to her a week early, the original Sofia would definitely agree to join her squad. Things would have been very different!


    The woman suddenly looked determined, "My squad leader is very interested in you. He believes that your gaming skills deserved to be paid with appropriate money. This kind of skill should belong to the best squad. Is there a way for me to let you agree in joining us? You can name your salary."


    Name your salary! This type of persuasion, the 24-year old soul within Sofia completely recognized its intention. The woman wanted to poach her!


    The woman did not think of anything and directly offer money to Sofia. For her, no one could reject an offer when a big money is at stake!


    Unfortunately, the woman failed to calculate the overall situation. Sofia was not into getting cash. Receiving cash from an employer would never satisfy a soul born for business. Her aim was to gain profits without being bound by somebody else.


    "You have misunderstood," Lisa stated and clasped her fingers.


    "Huh?" the woman asked in bewilderment.


    "From your offer, I assume that you are thinking that I am joining a squad, am I correct?" Sofia''s tone resembled a degree of professionalism that the woman felt tense after hearing the question.


    "Isn''t that what you had just told me? If you are not in the squad, then, why did you tell me that you will be participating in the tournament?" the woman argued. There was a slight tremor in her voice that even she could not explain why she felt nervous.


    "I will be participating, but I did not join a squad. I created one." Sofia met her gaze and a slight smile appeared on her lips.


    "Ohhh..." for a long time, the woman was speechless. She did not think about it. Now that Sofia corrected her assumption, she felt embarrassed.


    "Who is your squad leader?" Sofia curiously asked.


    "Brent Lee. He is the successor of his father''s series of enterprises in the district. But he also likes to play the game, so he formed a squad. The Lee Gaming Squad," the woman answered.

 Chapter 15 - An Old Friend

    ''Brent Lee,'' Sofia made a mental note. Out of a sudden, an image of a beautiful man, tall with dazzling eyes who was 3 years ahead of her replayed in her memory. She knew the man! Or to say precisely, the original Sofia was acquainted by this man!


    Sofia adjusted her body to a comfortable position. She looked at the woman in the eye and smiled warmly.


    "Ah! Brent? Yes, I know your squad leader personally! Don''t worry, I''ll message him after this conversation," Sofia asserted.


    She found in the memories of the old Sofia that Brent and her, they have known on a different role-playing game. It was an MMORPG game with guilds, missions, and quests. They were both in the same guild. But time had drifted their interest in the game and they lose contact.


    It was a typical bond that gamers shared. One can be so close with another player online like they have known for a long time. But this bond could also be cut without realizing that they have forgotten their bonds.


    It''s just how online life works. One day they would see a friend inactive in a day. Then, the day would eventually turn into a week. Weeks would go by months and the next thing they knew, they would be staring at the lobby looking at the screen as the months were converted into years that a friend had gone offline.


    A cruel bond.


    Sofia never realized that Brent still recognized her. He was like an older brother to him. But in their case, Brent was the noob. She was helping him finished quests so many times in the past.


    Her confirmation surprised the woman as well, "You know our squad leader on a personal level?"


    This reaction was normal since the man was too aloof. He was like a person with thousands of walls barricading within him. No one got close to him on a personal scale. Even his parents and siblings were not so familiar with the man.


    "Ohh well, not really. We just played in the past. Anyway, I must go back to my unit now. I''ll contact Brent, and explain to him the situation. Have a great day!" Sofia pushed her chair carefully and stood from her seat. She offered a warm smile again before she turned away.


    The woman who was still sitting on the chair stared at Sofia''s retreating back. She even admired how graceful the way Sofia walked.


    "Is she the rumored girlfriend of Brent? Hmmn, I have never heard of anyone who could talk about Brent in a casual manner. I better asked him later. hihihi, " the woman murmured and her lips curved into a wicked smile.


    After finishing the tea, the woman grabbed a black shawl that she had stuffed in her bag earlier. She covered it on her head concealing most part of her hair and face down to her shoulder. She also put dark and bigger sunglasses on her eyes and left the building.


    There was also an air of sophistication on how the way she strode towards the exit. It was the kind of elegance that only the elites have mastered.


    The building receptionist bowed as the woman passed through her desk. Just by looking at the woman''s outfit, the receptionist knew that this woman was not simple!


    A modern sports car was parked adjacent to Clark''s car. It was from a regal brand that would be enough to demand attention and recognition. The woman took a key from her bag and pressed the button on it.


    The car door quickly opened vertically. It was like a wing of an eagle that was ready to fly high! People quickly stopped on their tracks as they saw the car.


    Some passerby looked at her car with admiration. Others quickly got their phones and took pictures of her car. It was a limited edition sports car that only a few people in district 7 owned.


    "This car was just released today! Wow! I didn''t know someone had already owned one!"


    "Shhh... Don''t make your voice too loud. You might offend its owner!"


    "I know! I was just appreciating!"


    "We must take a good shot and brag this on social media! hehe, This kind of thing rarely happens in our place!''


    The onlookers could not keep themselves quiet. They started chattering and discussing how good the advertisement of the car was. Some even secured a selfie, and quickly bragged on social media. The post was directly a hype gaining many likes and comments!


    The woman took her moment to slide her body inside the car. The car door slowly closed. In a blink of an eye, the gorgeous sound of the roaring engine echoed on the road as the car sped up and departed the place.


    People who were left standing on the side of the street had the same thought at that time while watching the car drifted on the opposite lane. The woman or the car, those two were both products of luxury!


    The sports car abruptly stopped at a grand and exquisite manor. The exterior design resembled that of the classical era. A servant bowed to the woman as she entered the inside.


    The sound of her steps disrupted the silence of the place. Near the fireplace, a young man was sitting on an expensive chair. He did not bother to see who had just arrived. He continued to read something on the stacks of papers on his table.


    "Bro, your girlfriend is cultured and acts properly. Although she lived in a cheap building apartment, she had manners. You have good taste!" the woman spoke with admiration.


    The man finally looked up and threw the woman a confused expression. His lips formed in a line. But there was a hint of gentleness reflected in his eyes.


    This man was exactly Brent, the squad leader of the Lee Gaming Squad. And the woman was not just a squad member but also his younger sister!


    "What girlfriend are you talking about?" the man spoke and pushed the papers away from him.


    "Hehehe bro, you don''t need to hide it from me. Although the girl was not rich, I like how she presents herself during our conversation. I''m sure our parents would approve of her." the woman playfully said. In her mind, she was certain that her brother was keeping a secret relationship with Sofia out of fear that their parent would not allow it!


    On the other hand, Brent was at loss! He had no idea what his sister was talking about!


    Just as he was about to speak, his phone buzzed. As he glanced at the screen, he saw a message from a long-time online friend. Brent subconsciously smiled as he opened the message.


    From: sofia


    Is this still your number? I''ll call.


    The girl used to call his number directly whenever there were unfinished quests that they needed to do. But now, she seemed more distant and professional.


    In a blink of an eye, Brent managed to type his reply.


    To: sofia


    Yes, long time no see!


    His sister was silently observing the expression that her brother was showing on his face. Then she remembered that Sofia did tell her that she would contact Brent!


    "EHHH... is that the girlfriend?" she said with a teasing tone.


    Brent glared at her as his phone buzzed again. This time it was an incoming call from Sofia.


    "Yo!" he casually answered the call and walked few steps away from his sister.


    His sister quickly jumped near him and placed her ear on the phone to catch their conversation.


    "You have sent your squad member to recruit me. It would have been great if we play in the same group. But now, I have a squad and we will be participating in the 1st Online Tournament of our district also. Heh, be sure to survive in the elimination round!"


    Sofia''s last tone was serious but Brent knew that it was meant as a joke. The two of them were just like this. They could throw arrogant nothings or hateful words with no real meanings. A trashtalk between close friends.


    Brent eyed his sister. The woman just gave him a peace sign. "T-that, well I''m glad for you if you have a squad already, Sof. Be ready, I''ll make sure to crush you on the tournament."


    Brent heard Sofia''s taunting laugh. One that he had been accustomed to hear a few years ago. The kind of laugh she would only make if the quest was too easy to finish. "Hehehehe Crush me? You bet! Alright, I gotta go. See ya at the tournament!"


    The other line ended their call without waiting for Brent to speak his goodbye. His sister was completely astonished! No one had ever dared dropped a call from her brother. Yet, Sofia had done it!


    And what made the woman more amused was that her brother just shook his head with a grin on his face.


    "Bro... wiped out that silly grin on your face. You look like an idiot! Why don''t you introduce your girlfriend to the family already?" his sister asked.


    "Oh, Sofia and I are not in a relationship. She is a reliable friend of mine."


    Reliable friend! For his brother to acknowledge someone like that in such a high credit... it was but once in a blue moon!


    "Wait a minute, you are the squad member that she was referring? Bah! What a blunt lie!" Brent criticized.


    "Haha, Bro, remember last week. I asked you who are the best players that could possibly join our squad. You said her name. So I made a little digging and was impressed with her gameplay. I called her contact info but she did not answer. So I searched her address and talk to her earlier directly."


    In the end, the woman just used his brother as an alibi. She had not intended to use the man though. It''s just that, she was slightly shaken by how Sofia asked her that she end up mentioning her brother.


    "Well, she is not available. So, don''t pester her. And by the looks of it, I have a foreboding feeling that she already had this tournament in the palm of her hand." Brent told his sister.


    "Bro, you are single. I think this Sofia is also single. Since you have established a friendship, why don''t you level up your relationship? Anyway, you are rich! No woman would reject you." the woman made a casual remark.


    Brent coughed slightly, "Don''t meddle on my personal life." His tone had quickly turned distant. As if the woman in front of him was not his siblings.


    The woman shrugged and gave him an look that could be interpreted as ''you -are-impossible!''


    "Assemble the squad members and tell them to practice thoroughly. Maybe I will join the tournament. Put my name on the line-up," Brent ordered.


    Although he was the squad leader, the Lee Gaming Squad had many members. So, Brent did not pay attention to this competition at first. But after knowing that Sofia would be joining, his interest also perked.


    His sister beamed in delight after hearing his words. "If you are joining, then, it would be a sure win! I will register your name right now!"


    "Ahhh... I''m just going to play for fun. Don''t put your hope too much into winning this tournament. There is already a beast waiting to devour us." Brent chuckled and recalled how Sofia laughed earlier. It was really the kind of laugh that had given him an assurance of victory a long time ago. But now that they would be facing as an enemy, her laugh could also meant as an assurance of defeat!


    "Is she that good?" his sister sat on the couch and hugged the oval pillow.


    "She was the one who taught me the ropes of how to complete difficult quests on the game that we were playing once. To say that she is good would be an understatement," Brent replied.


    "When she rejected my invitation to join us, I kinda offered her money. I even told her to name her salary and our squad would comply," the woman recollected.


    "There are gamers that cannot be swayed with money. Some of them are hungry for victory. They just want to win and win." Brent looked at his sister with sympathy. He could feel that for his sister to resort to money, she must have wanted to get Sofia on their side badly!


    "I guess, she is that kind of gamer. I looked for her information. Her gaming styles. She plays a tank but her gameplay is versatile. She can adjust. Her tank would take all the damage from an opponent. And she could also manipulate her tank and deal damage. This is a rare skill I have not seen before," the woman confessed.

 Chapter 16 - Activity Gone Wrong

    Feb 13, 2017, Monday


    The entire vibe of the university was full of excitement. The students were very active.


    But as for the reasons of this enthusiastic aura, it could be divided into two: the half population of the students was excited for the next day would be Valentine''s Day. They have prepared so many activities and was eager to have fun. Whereas, the other half of the students were fired up because of the upcoming Online District Tournament. With the hundreds of squads joining the competition, many were also discussing about it.


    Each of these two groups was very busy with their preparations. Some students were occupying the benches and were clearly playing games on their phones.


    For the side of the students who were looking forward to celebrating romance, they were also busy with their own tasks. Their classroom walls and bulletin boards were filled with heart decorations. Love quotes were scribbled on tiny pieces of paper and stuck inside small jars. Secret admirers were preparing for their confessions. The entire school was full of red balloons and glittery papers.


    Key chains, couple shirts, single roses, bouquets, and other romantic kinds of stuff were ready to be displayed in some stalls. Confession booths, kissing booths, and others could also be seen around the campus.


    At a few distances, Sofia was staring at the other students who were pouring their efforts into the Valentine activities of the school. She secretly admired how the group of students was working as a team. Somehow, remnants of her old memories flashed before her.


    In her mind, she could not remember any school activity like this in her past life. What she remembered was receiving an exclusive piece of jewelry made of golden rutilated quartz specially designed for her from a suitor. A hundred roses with a dinner invitation to a lavish restaurant. Some memories of her past youth were too vague but she knew there were many boys pursuing to have a romantic relationship with her. Only to be rejected in the end.


    For some reason, at present, she could not also find an interest in joining the school''s Valentine''s event. Perhaps, like her past life, her heart was allocated for something else.


    Just like other gamer students who were looking forward to the upcoming tournament, Sofia''s mind was completely set to play for tomorrow as well. She has even forgotten about the school activities!


    ''I died without any romantic relationship in the past. I should at least make effort to cultivate romance in this new life,'' Sofia wrinkled her eyebrows in deep thoughts.


    Cultivate romance! This seemed to be a very difficult conquest for her to achieve. All her time was allocated to gaming. Just like her past self which also used to bury herself in doing business. Sofia subconsciously clasped her fingers at her back while her expression turned serious.


    She slowly moved her feet and walked forward. The sunlight was warm for three in the afternoon walk. Clouds were painted brightly in the sky.


    It was too early for her night class to start. But arriving early in school was intentional.


    She planned to visit the school''s library or find a quiet spot where she could think freely, at the same time, she would not lose track of the moment. Otherwise, if Sofia stayed in her apartment, there would be a tendency that her mind would carry away and forget the time.


    "Nevermind, I''ll think of a plan after the tournament," she whispered in the air as her eyes were still locked at the group of students arranging some flowers inside a booth.


    Just as she was about to turn in the corner, Sofia felt a sudden arm forcefully yanked her shoulder! Darkness quickly enveloped her sight as her eyes were covered with some sort of cheap linen. Someone had blindfolded her!


    Her heartbeat quickly went wild. Initial thoughts came rushing in her instinct. ''My new identity is not a distinguished family in this district. Who would be interested to kidnap me?'' Sofia asked in her mind.


    To think that someone would kidnap an ordinary girl in a broad daylight and inside the school, this situation just doesn''t seem right!


    She felt a force that shoved her back and Sofia was forced to move and continue to walk. The rapid sound of her heartbeat resembled a drum being hit wildly by a rock band drummer. She was panting and gasping for air.


    Sofia was too scared to even speak a word! Beads of sweats started to appear on her forehead and her legs were slightly trembling. She felt like any moment, she would collapse!


    Out of a sudden, she was hollered in a chair to sit on. Strangely, some giggles and girly chuckles with suppressed waves of laughter caught by her ears.


    "Is this on video?"


    "Yes, this is live!"


    "Alright, nice! Nice!"


    Murmurs around her grew louder and she could not help but think of another question. A probability that any junior high student would experience at some point in her life.


    ''Am I being bullied? These students, are they making fun of me?'' she asked in her mind. But she could not recall any past bullying incident in her memories. She was just a wallflower in the school. There was nothing note-worthy of her existence.


    The blindfold in her eyes was deliberately yanked from her face. The arms that were holding her tightly had loosened their grip. Sofia squinted her eyes to adjust her vision.


    As she looked up, she saw a boy sitting opposite. A group of students was surrounding them as they sat at the table.


    "Sorry, did we scare you? It was a test for tomorrow''s event." The boy looked slightly apologetic. She remembered him. He was the senior student who was sitting next to her during the Financial Literacy Seminar that her group attended.


    Before Sofia could process the apology of the boy, her hands flew right straight on his face!


    The students watching them stood frozen as her palm connected on the boy''s cheek followed by the crisp sound of a slap. Their giggling was stopped in an instant.


    Nobody dared to say a word. Even the boy did not expect to be slapped.


    "OMG! Did she just slap Kevin?!"


    "This girl! Hey, why did you slap him?"


    Two girls glared at Sofia but her cold face made them cower in fear.


    "Are you stupid?! I could have collapsed because of this test!" Sofia angrily snarled at them. Her veins had even formed in the side of her face. She was still struggling to regain her composure.


    "HA! You sure are overacting!" another girl from the crowd stated in contempt. In the eyes of the students, there was nothing bad in their actions. The slap was totally uncalled for.


    How could they understand? Sofia had been paying attention in games that she could not relate to these types of school activities.


    Sofia opened her mouth to speak a response, but a teacher beat her chance to say a word.


    "What going on here?" the teacher asked.


    "Teacher, that girl slapped Kevin in the face. Look, her palms were even formed on his skin." one girl quickly reported.


    "Miss, violence is not tolerated in this school---" the teacher apprehended her.


    But Sofia met the teacher''s icy gaze with her cold stare.


    "Wait until I sue you for attempted kidnapping! You brought me here against my will! You attacked me just as I was walking peacefully on the campus! Oh, I forgot, you have this live on your video, right? Good, you have spared me the effort of getting a piece of evidence!" she warily eyed everyone inside the booth.


    Some students laughed at her remark. They have no idea what Sofia was talking about. They just shrugged and continued to call her an over-acting! They even started taunting her with names.


    But standing few feet away from her, the teacher was shaken by Sofia''s tone.


    "Everyone! Go to the guidance office!" the teacher immediately ordered. Such serious word like kidnapping was too much for the teacher to handle.


    Kevin stood from the seat, feeling humiliated. His family was recognized and respected in District 7 for their involvement in the real-estate business. The entire school knew his identity, or so he thought?


    It turned out, one junior student was not aware of who he is!


    Kevin strode silently together with the other students. Girls quickly gave him a sympathetic look.


    "Kevin, are you okay?"


    "She was crazy! We should have not picked her!"


    To say, Sofia was randomly picked by them. She was the only student who was walking near their blind dating booth. So, they conveniently took her. They just didn''t know that Sofia would react badly. They blindfolded her as their activity involved blind dates!


    If glares could kill, Sofia had long been dead. She could feel that the students behind her were staring wickedly at her back. The intensity was too obvious.


    Sofia was walking ahead of them. Ahead of the teacher even! As if she was leading them towards the guidance office!


    Office of the Guidance Counselor


    She paused and knocked on the door.


    "Come in," a voice consented from the inside.


    Sofia bowed at the guidance counselor and stood on the side, letting the students get in.


    "What''s the matter?" the guidance counselor asked.


    Sofia did not speak of any greetings. Her afternoon was no longer good. The peaceful mood within her had drastically changed into 180 degrees. Worst. So much for her earlier plans to go to the library, she actually ended in the guidance office instead!


    "The Valentine''s activity that the seniors will be doing tomorrow is too risky and could be considered as an assault! I was walking on that building towards the library when somebody yanked my arms and put a blindfold on my eyes. I thought I was being kidnapped!"


    "W-wait for a second, young miss... Why would you think that you are being kidnapped?" the guidance counselor frowned.


    Sofia was in a momentary daze after hearing the question of the guidance counselor.


    If it was her original soul, the young Sofia would have thought that the counselor was also stupid! She just declared what happened to her, which could clearly give the man the picture of a person being abducted. Yet, the counselor asked why she had thought that she was kidnapped? It was indeed a silly question.


    But for the 24-year old soul within her body, it was not stupidity. The counselor was just acting like a fool to provoke her! To make her make mistakes so that she would be punished.


    ''Too bad for you, counselor, you would be a fool if you think you can fool me!'' Sofia eyed the man with seriousness.


    Sofia took a deep breath as she finally recovered from the shock she just experienced. "Guidance counselor, could it be that you have forgotten what was an abduction meant? If that is the case, I will be happy to search and read it to you," Sofia''s tone was full of boldness.


    The counselor did not expect her to retort in such a manner. The man was experienced in psychology. And the student''s usual reaction when he treated their complaint with indifference was full rage or anger. Students would start yelling or shouting profanities at him. And when that happens, he could trap the student and give him proper sanction for the improper reaction that he also instigated.


    This time though, the student in front of him had managed to maintain cool composure. She even answered him boldly!


    "Do you want me to search the meaning, counselor?" Sofia repeated after the man did not speak for a long time.


    "Ehem! So this is a misunderstanding! You thought you were abducted but it was just part of the activity of the school." the guidance counselor was forced to confront her with a different tactic.


    "I see," Sofia muttered. She quickly perceived which side the guidance counselor was taking. It was on the side of the senior student who remained quiet up until now.


    "I''m glad that you have reflected it, young miss! This misunderstanding is common." the man clicked his tongue and smirked. Sofia clenched her hands and balled them into a fist.


    "You have widened my horizon, sir!" Sofia quickly replied with a meaningful tone. One that can be hinted at with sarcasm and detachment.


    "Alright, all of you reconcile. The seniors can go. Young miss, I have more words to discuss to you." the man instructed. The students quickly went out.


    Kevin gritted his teeth. He glanced at Sofia once last time before he exited the office.


    "Young miss, you are smart. You can understand why I am not partial to you. The student that you slapped is an important figure of this school. He was our benefactor. His family donated a huge sum of money for this school to develop like this."


    Sofia crossed her arms on her chest, "Counselor, my concern has nothing to do with his family. I slapped him because I almost lost my mind about what they have done. I am not against that Valentine''s activity. I know that it was for fun. My point here is that there should have been an announcement made before they performed it. In that way, an ignorant student like me who was oblivious to this type of activity would be aware. If I was aware, I wouldn''t react that badly!"


    The counselor gawked in amusement, "Good, you have a point. I''ll make sure that the school activities will be announced later."


    "That''s good. Awareness is essential if they pull this kind of activity. Then, I''m taking my leave. Goodbye, counselor. Sorry to trouble you." Sofia said and walked away.


    The guidance counselor could only stare at her back until she was out of the office.

 Chapter 17 - Art Of Trash-talking

    ''Awareness is essential...''


    Sofia''s words lingered in the guidance counselor''s thoughts. The man closed his eyes tightly and slumped his body on his chair.


    "Why do I felt like I was being lectured by a student? I am the guidance counselor here. However, that student, I could also not find fault of her words!" he reflected as his hand massaged the bridge of his nose.


    In the hallway, Sofia''s steps were rushed. The trip to the guidance office did not last for 20 minutes but her mood had turned sour.


    "Hey!" a voice called her. She turned her head and saw Kevin, standing a few steps away from her.


    "So, I think I remember you. During the seminar, you were sitting beside me," Kevin started.


    "Get to your point," Sofia snapped. She didn''t feel sorry for slapping the boy. And if he would demand an apology to her, she might just slap the other side of his face!


    "Well, I came here to apologize. Really, it was a misunderstanding," Kevin gestured a handshake.


    Sofia looked indignant, ''You came to apologize?''


    The boy was actually told by the teacher who witnessed the incident the possible consequence if Sofia would sue their actions. If his family would know about the incident, he was also afraid that they would scold him for not taking things into careful consideration.


    Sofia waved her hands and dismissed Kevin without saying a word. She turned around and started walking. Although she had calmed down, the word ''misunderstanding'', pissed her off. But knowing that the person has a special background, she chose to leave.


    After seeing that the girl was treating him coldly, Kevin tensed up.


    "Allow me to take you to dinner tomorrow to show my sincerity." Kevin quickly persisted.


    His invitation caused her steps to halt. Sofia turned around once more and stared at Kevin with scrutinizing gaze. He suddenly felt uneasy with how her eyes examined him. He felt like it could pierce through the depth of his soul!


    "I have plans for tomorrow. If you can move this invitation to Friday, I would take it," Sofia spoke.


    Move the invitation! Her tone held an air of authority that Kevin could not help but make a quick comparison of how his father talked to his staff. The tone really had a resemblance!


    Sofia unknowingly just acted as if she was rescheduling a business engagement!


    "Err, sure! Friday it is. I''ll take your mobile number so I can contact you," Kevin gulped. He felt like his mouth went dry. For some reason, he suddenly felt thirsty!


    Sofia scanned his code and the two proceeded to exchange phone numbers.


    In one of the benches, Joey and Stephen were watching the two secretly. It was the first time they saw Sofia chatting with other students on the school grounds. Stephen took his phone and typed a message.


    To: Nosy


    Who''s he?


    Joey shook his head and nudge Stephen''s elbow. "It looks like your crush is getting another admirer. Hehe, you have a rival! You should up your game!" he casually commented to tease his friend.


    Stephen gave him a cold glare. "Nonsense!" he mumbled.


    "Ahh, Sofia looked like she is upset!" Joey noticed as the girl placed her hands on both of her waists, "We are like watching a show of two lovers-quarrel!" he added.


    After a few minutes, they saw Sofia and Kevin walked in separate ways. Not long after, Stephen also got a reply from her.


    From: Nosy


    son of a respected benefactor in this school?


    Her response ended with a question mark which indicated that she was not so aware of the other student''s identity. This gave Stephen an idea that Sofia is not close with the boy.


    "Do you know that guy?" Stephen asked Joey.


    "Yes, his father is an architect. They are well-known in our district. Seriously bro, where did you come from? Why did you not know him?" Joey answered in a playful tone. But Stephen does not look amused at all.


    Joey rolled his eyes after seeing the stiff expression on Stephen''s face. Silence followed to take over their conversation as the students walked by.


    The school grounds were wide and the grasses were kept neat by their school gardener. When the last period of the class would dismiss, most students would usually stay on the school grounds to hang out with their friends.


    They would form a mini group and sit on the plains. Some would make a group project. Others would gather for entertainment. If the group is not playing a mobile game, then the group is gossiping. A typical thing that the students have long practiced.


    Every class dismissal would be a highlight of their day. Especially if there were good quality of gossips in the school.


    Speaking of good quality of gossip, news traveled so fast about the slapping incident involving Sofia and Kevin. Perhaps, it was because of the live video on social media. It quickly becomes the next subject of talk in the students sitting on the field.


    The video attracted most girls. To say, if it was in-game, Sofia may have unknowingly pull the aggro on several groups of nasty enemies.


    "I didn''t know that there is a student that has a guts of slapping Kevin."


    "How dare this girl. Who is she?"


    "There is a name in the caption. It says, Sofia Su. Search this name!"


    "Yes, this ignorant girl! How can she be angry at him!"


    "Ehh? There are no results of her name?!"


    Offensive comments and a series of profanities quickly piled up on the video. Some students tried to tag Sofia''s account on their hateful remarks. Students were so easy to judge and condemn Sofia for her actions.


    Fortunately, the original Sofia was a game addict and did not care about a social media account. She had an account on social media but it was like a throw-away account.


    Like a fake account, she just uses the account for essential game announcements or game quests. There was nothing on the account that had a direct connection with her real life.


    But even if she would see the foul comments and trash talks about her, Sofia had long been exposed to these types of things. She had played so many games and was used to this type of talking.


    If there would be a battle of trash talking, a gamer like her would surely take a lead!


    Stephen casually checked his social media accounts and also saw the main sauce of the student''s gossips. The live video was clear and their faces were focused on the camera.


    "Ohh, Sofia went on a fight with that guy!" he said and gestured to Joey to look on his screen.


    "Ouch! Remind me not to make Sofia angry! Her slap looked like it hurts so bad!" Joey commented after watching the video. He even rubbed his cheeks dramatically as if it was him that was getting slapped!


    ~


    The night class finally started and Sofia was on time to join. She sat on the desk next to Claire. There was a comical blank expression on her face.


    Their teacher did not give the class a lecture. Instead, there was a meeting of their activity.


    "Night class, what are the activities that you have planned for tomorrow?" the teacher asked.


    Suddenly. the students started to look at each other. The entire room went silent. There were no plans at all! In fact, almost all the students in their section would be joining the district tournament!


    "I won''t go to school tomorrow, teacher." one student bravely spoke as the silence inside their room has become more uncomfortable to handle.


    The 14th of February was always declared a non-working holiday in District 7. Schools and offices would be open but it would be for the celebration of the Valentines. Students can choose whether to go to school but if they prefer to celebrate the occasion in private, it would also be allowed for them not to come.


    "You won''t go to school? Do you still consider yourself a student on this campus?" the teacher scowled. Anger was evident in her tone.


    No one dared to speak a word.


    "Who else won''t come to school tomorrow? Raise your hand!" the teacher demanded.


    Incredibly, one after another, all students raised their hands. Even the students were shocked to find out that none of them would come to enjoy the Valentines events in school!


    The teacher was a bit old and was not aware of the tournament. After seeing that all students were raising their hands, she immediately felt complicated.


    "What is happening? Why is it all of you? Speak your answers!?" the teacher asked in confusion.


    "Ma''am, there is another public activity in the district. I will go there tomorrow."


    "Yes, teacher. We will join the district tournament."


    "Me too, I will join the online tournament!"


    "I will not participate in playing. But I want to watch the competition."


    Sofia''s classmates answered simultaneously. Their teacher remained silent until the noises stopped.


    "I see. In this case, you are dismissed early. Have fun on your errands tomorrow. See you on Wednesday!" the teacher announced.


    The entire classroom broke into cheerful chaos. Some students bow at the teacher and thank her for her kindness. Other students shared a high five and eagerly left the classroom.


    Sofia and Claire were also happy. As the two stepped out of the classroom, they saw their three friends. Clark, Stephen, and Joey were anxiously waiting for them.


    "Why are you here?" Claire casually asked.


    "Listen, guys, the school ground is not safe to take. Let''s use the back gate." Joey whispered and looked vigilant.


    "Huh? What''s wrong? Is there a gang fight? Was it your ex-girlfriend hunting you?" Claire probed further. Like Sofia, she did not also pay attention to social media, so she was not aware of the increasing hate that was directed to Sofia online.


    Joey frowned but did not say a word as he bitterly remembered his last encounter with his ex.


    "Eh? You don''t know? Well, I will explain in the car. My driver is waiting for us at the back gate. Come on, hurry up!" Clark stated and almost dragged the two ladies.


    "Why do you look so scared, Clark?" Claire raised her eyebrows and stopped walking.


    "Get moving, Claire! It''s because someone slapped the school''s benefactor earlier. It''s all over the forums of our school. Now, we have to escape before the fans of the benefactor find out!" Stephen commented and slightly pushed Claire to move forward.


    Moments, later the five of them arrived in Sofia''s place unscathed. It had also occurred to Sofia''s mind was happening. She quickly checked the school forum.


    Vicious terms such as ''piece of trash'', ''ignorant barbarian'', ''dumb b*tch'', ''princess of violence'' were filtered by Sofia''s eyes.


    "HAHAHA ignorant barbarian!" Claire''s laughter exploded after reading the particular comment.


    She then made her reply: ''you are so smart!''


    Claire was still grinning from ear to ear as if she was praising the quality of trash talks that she was reading.


    Clark who caught a glimpse of her expression looked troubled. "Are you really friends? Why are you praising those students who say mean things to her!?" he suspiciously inquired.


    "Ahhh, my friend! Let this big sister teach you an important lesson about trash talking. Listen carefully," Claire mumbled and looked at Clark in the eye for a few seconds.


    "Okay, don''t stop and continue!" Clark replied with annoyance.


    "For us, gamers, trash-talking is an art. And art should be appreciated!" Claire giggled. Her chest was even shaking as she suppressed her laughter, "Now that you know this secret, go and find your art!" she added before her attention went back to her phone.


    "What kind of principle is that? Trash talking is never good. It is also a form of abuse!" Clark pursed his lips and wrinkled his forehead.


    "Hehehe, later when you spend more time in the game, you will encounter more artistic trash talkers. You better toughen up your psychological strength! Some gamers use trash talk as a gaming strategy. If you are weak and will be easily affected by these foul words, the gaming world is not for you to pursue." Claire casually shrugged.


    "So, if someone will speak mean words to me, what should I do?" Clark curiously asked.


    It had just been recently that he paid so much attention to the game with a degree of seriousness. In the past, he only played for fun. He would even leave in a match if he feels it is too difficult. He didn''t care if he would be AFK nor the impact of his AFK at all!


    Claire shook her head and glanced at him with sympathy, "Clark, you can just ignore them. With your poor skills of trash-talking, it is better if you don''t respond if someone would speak foul words to you. Silence could also anger your enemy. Hehe"


    "Right, right," Clark scratched the back of his neck shyly nodded.

 Chapter 18 - The Hype And Excitement

    As the airbus 320 aircraft landed carrying the passengers from District 6 Airport bound to District 7 Airport, one of the flight attendants quickly made an announcement for the passengers inside the airplane.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, we have just landed at District 7 Airport..."


    Tourists were quickly awakened by the flight attendant''s speech. It was still 5 in the morning and almost all passengers were sleeping when they heard such a landing announcement.


    "Finally! I hope our shuttle is already here." one passenger murmured in between his yawn.


    This was just the 2nd flight scheduled for that day. And passengers had the option of taking 12 different schedules at their convenient time. Usually, there would be only 30 to 40 passengers that would take this flight because of its estimated time of arrival. Five in the morning was just too inconvenient to travel for most regular passengers of this airline. But, right now, all the seats were occupied inside this aircraft.


    District 7 was not much of a tourist destination. There were only a few things that could possibly attract travelers to this place. But for some reason, this plane was fully booked!


    In fact, even yesterday, all flights bound to this airport had been fully booked. Airline personnel was also baffled by the influx of people traveling to their place.


    "Hey, why are there so many people visiting in our place? Is there something going on?" One flight crew asked his companion. The number on their manifest was just too unbelievable as it had never happened in the district before.


    "Maybe there is a celebrity couple? I am not sure either. I just came back yesterday from my overseas trip. I am also amazed to see this many people here." The other female flight crew responded in confusion. She quickly assumed that there might be a famous celebrity visiting their place for Valentine''s day. Otherwise, she could not think of another possibility for tourists to come to her district!


    These curious flight crews eyed the passengers secretly and noticed several distinctive similarities of their customers in flight. After few minutes of observing, they started to chitchat.


    "Can you see? They are like students on a field trip. But, who would go on a field trip during Valentine''s day?"


    "You are right, these passengers are traveling in a group!"


    "Yes, and they are like wearing a uniform blazers and jackets or something!? Look, look! The group sitting on the wing side seats are mostly wearing identical jackets with a logo that I am not so familiar with. What is WASD?" the female flight crew actively noted in detail as her eyes were darted to the passengers that were using a team jacket which had a print of selected keyboard keys, ''WASD''.


    "It could be an acronym of their school? Maybe a department of their course? The letter D could stand for a word Department, right?" the other crew made a wild guess.


    Based on their remarks, they really had no idea what the logo was. For these two who were not familiar with any games, these letters were also not relatable. So all they could do was to imagine what the logo meant.


    But, if any gamer would take even a slight glimpse of these letters, and the way it was printed in neon lights, they could easily identify the function of those keys. It was customarily used for the movements of the character inside the computer: ''W'' key to move forward, ''A'' key to move backward, ''S'' key to turn left, and ''D'' key to turn right. A very basic knowledge all gamers knew.


    It could seemingly mean that the group wearing those blazers was comfortable with WASD and printed it on their team jackets. Or perhaps, there was a deeper meaning of these keyboard to their group!


    In the front seat of the plane, a passenger who was sitting near these curious flight crews tried to open his mouth to correct their knowledge. But in the end, he took a big gulp as if he was swallowing his words of wisdom down to his throat. In his mind, it would be too much to explain. So he decided to just stay in silence.


    Just as this passenger thought that the two crews were done having their discussion, the female one turned her head and looked on the other aisle of the plane.


    She made a momentary pause and gestured again to her companion to look in the direction, "Then, see also the lavatory side passengers, their jackets were printed with computer part, it is a mouse with an artistic blazing design, right?" she added.


    Her companion nodded in agreement, "It does look like one. And most of these passengers are traveling light! They have no check-in baggage with them. The majority are also wearing eyeglasses and earphones. They are probably really having a field trip for a day in our place." the other crew commented.


    The passenger near them shook his head and took a deep breath. As he overheard their conversations, he slightly felt guilty for letting the two airline crews having their assumptions wrong.


    "We are not on a field trip. We are here to watch the online tournament of this district." He finally uttered some words without making eye contact.


    The curious crews quickly looked embarrassed and smiled at the passenger.


    "Ahh, so you guys are all gamers?" one of the crew initiated to ask further. She stared at the passenger but the man just looked at his phone.


    "Yes, I think so." the passenger replied before placing his earphone on his ear, finally ending the conversation.


    As all the passengers began to disembark the aircraft, some of them noticed three familiar figures. The figures were wearing shades on their eyes. Their attire was also simple. They were just wearing T-shirts and casual shorts.


    With their attire, they could easily blend with the locals. The figure walked straight to the exit door and stood at the corner as if waiting for somebody to pick them up.


    "Ahh, darn! Are those the members of FAB_Gamers Squad? Am I correct?" a boy murmured while looking at the three figures. Despite the disguise of these figures, he still managed to see through their identity.


    "Shhh, that''s not just a member! The one wearing the black shirt is their squad leader," another boy nudged him to keep his voice low.


    "Eh? the one with in-game-name WINS? No wonder, he looked so elegant!" the boy whispered secretly admiring the back of his idol.


    "Yes, bah! I didn''t know he would also be interested in watching this tournament!" another member from the group of the boy interjected.


    "This is one interesting competition indeed! Let''s go grab some coffee first before going to the venue." their own leader said in amusement while glancing at the three figures.


    Back in the plane, after the passengers were gone, the young pilot of the aircraft also walked in a hurry. This man was just in his late twenties. He constantly adjusted his pilot cap as he almost ran towards the staff room.


    "Captain, what''s the rush?" his co-pilot asked.


    "I''m watching an important game. See ya!" the pilot just waved his hand and did not bother to turn around.


    "Oh, damn! Is it today?! I have a ticket to the tournament also! Wait!" the co-pilot looked at his expensive wristwatch which shows not only the time but also the date. He then ran towards the captain. It merely slipped his mind, thankfully, he was reminded by the captain!


    To say, these pilots were close friends and also veteran gamers. They play some early generations of various games when they were in their teens.


    But as they focused on college, they also stopped playing. Yet, it does not mean that they have lost their interest in games. These two were flying airplanes as their passion but they were always gamer by heart. If they have a day off, they usually spend it exploring new games.


    The flight crews looked at the two dazzling pilots who were like in a contest of running marathon towards the staff room.


    "Should we also watch the game? It looks like fun! Anyway, our duty is over for today." the female crew who had been bubbly since earlier suggested.


    "Sure! Let''s buy tickets!" her companion agreed.


    The two immediately browsed at their district forum and easily located the information of the online tournament. But as they tried purchasing a ticket, there was a large message prompted on their screen.


    SOLD OUT!


    "Ah! It''s not available online! Maybe we can purchase over the counter," the female crew sighed.


    "Over the counter is not possible also. The site declared that the ticket was sold out since last four days ago. No channels are selling anymore!" her companion bitterly responded and showed the message.


    "Wow!" the female crew was lost in words.


    It was such a piece of shocking news to them. Even movies in theaters rarely announced concerning sold-out tickets of their shows! No wonder, District 7 Airport had been bustling since yesterday!


    On the side of FAB_Gamers, the three notable figures in the pro scene rented a car and hired a driver to drive them to the venue. Their leader was hoping for them to stay lowkey.


    The driver was a bit old but the man kept them entertained by telling them the local places that their group could visit.


    Few minutes after they left the District 7 Airport, they were struck by a traffic jam.


    The driver anxiously glanced at the group, "Yesterday and today, this road had been experiencing heavy traffic. But it is not like this. This road is usually good as empty." he partially explained.


    "District 7 is surely in buzz for this Valentine''s event!" WINS responded to the driver with a friendly tone. It was still early, and the tournament would only start at 9 am, so he is not worried about the traffic.


    "Hehehe, yes. But it is not because of the Valentines! It is because of the gaming event during this Valentine''s day!" the driver laughed.


    Indeed, the hype for the current year''s Valentine''s was not about romance. But was about the online tournament! To say, it was not about couples displaying love for each other. Instead, it was about the group of gamers showcasing their love for the game!


    "Boss WINS, did you contact the Chronos?" the man sitting on the left side asked curiously.


    "It''s too early to contact them." WINS chuckled.


    "AHH, yes, yes. By the way boss, the director of our squad told me that he prepared us a reservation at a hotel near the venue. Which place should we go to first? The hotel or the venue?"


    "Ehhh, have you forgotten? We are just the audience in this tournament. We are not participants. Things are not the same! Let me tell you, the line for the audience is crazy and super long! It''s better to go to the venue directly. Am I right, Boss WINS?" the one sitting on the right side argued.


    WINS nodded, "Yes, let''s go to the venue so that we can choose a good seat. As for our breakfast, we can just eat while waiting in line."


    "Ok boss. I hope we get a good seat. I wanna see the people behind the Chronos squad. Hehe, maybe we can meet them later? After the competition?"


    WINS just smiled at his teammate and did not speak anymore.


    ~


    The Public Gymnasium of District 7


    The entire vicinity was bustling even though it was not yet 6 in the morning. Students, workers, locals, and other visitors have gathered for the most awaited Valentine''s event in District 7.


    There was a wildness in the air that could only be felt for this particular occasion. Some places may have a romantic ambiance but in this public gymnasium, anyone could feel the burning fire from everyone''s interest in gaming.


    It does not matter if it was a participant or an audience. The degree of excitement in the atmosphere was just insane!


    The diverse people were lining in two entrances. The first entrance was for the organizers, staff, and participants of the tournament. The second entrance was for the audience of the competition.


    But the audience entrance was still closed despite the huge number of people falling in line! The management announced that they would only open the door at 7 am in hope that these people would disperse and eat their breakfast first.


    But nobody moved from where they stood. None of them was willing to give up in their line!


    The line from both entrances was long but all the people were patiently waiting for their turn to get inside. There were even families that came just to watch the game. Everybody had been anticipating for this day to come!

 Chapter 19 - A Newbie?

    One of the organizers looked at the participants while his index finger placed in between his lips. "Shhh... Please listen to big sister Fen." He stated and gestured to the lady behind him to step forward.


    "Hello, everyone! To all participants for this competition, attention! Squad leaders, get your assigned booth numbers here," the lady staff whom was called big sister Fen enthusiastically announced to the participants. The smile in her face also reflected how much she looked forward on watching the participants play the game as well.


    Every squad leader immediately formed a line and take turns to get a number.


    "Please wear them anywhere that our fellow staff could see it easily." the smiling staff instructed each time she would provide an item to the squad leaders.


    Upon receiving their numbers, all squad leaders were directly amazed. At first, they were expecting to receive the usual paper. That it would be in the form of a typical paper folded or placed in an envelope where their designated numbers would be written on it.


    But, the staff actually gave them a cute object! If flipped on the backside, there was a bar pin attached on it. It did not take long for them to realized that the accessory was a brooch!


    Their number was inscribed on a brooch with beautiful gaming calligraphy.


    Most of them were instantly impressed by the amount of preparation that the organizers poured into the tournament. Normally, a district competition like this would only use a piece of paper with a written number. However, right now, the organizers had stepped up their level and paid much attention even to the tiny details!


    At that moment, they could feel the dedication of the people behind the tournament!


    On the top part of the brooch were tiny letters that state: 1st Online Tournament Squad Leader. Below this was the name of their squad. And then, written in bigger size font was the number of their booth.


    Even Sofia who had experienced a sheer amount of sophistication in her past was impressed by the preparation! She could not help but admire this sophisticated idea!


    She glanced at her brooch with a tiny yet warm smile on her face. Somehow, there was a glimmer of pride swelled up within her. This was the passion of the original Sofia. To play games and joined the pro-scene. To win and continue winning!


    As for the 24-year old soul within her, her instinctive desire was obtaining profits.


    Both their goals have blended perfectly into one: Sofia''s first step of earning profits is by winning tournaments. But she knew that playing in the pro scene is but a fleeting career. When she gets older, she would be replaced by the younger generations. Yet, this fact did not make her worry. With her capability in business, everything would eventually fall into the right places.


    She stared at the scribbled brooch for a while.


    1st Online Tournament Squad Leader


    The Chronos Squad


    3


    NO, in fact, it was not just Sofia. All of the squad leaders took a momentary time to pause and look at their brooches. With just this tiny object, it was already enough token to burst their self-esteem.


    With the hundreds of participants in the game, the organizers were able to devise a strategy and assigned each participating squad in a match with a booth. Every booth was wide enough to accommodate eight squads. The arrangement of allocating participants to one booth was that all opponents for a single match would share the space.


    As Sofia''s squad was placed in 3rd booth, it also implied that they would be playing on the third round of the elimination match.


    "Third match. Let''s go!" Sofia said after she returned to her group. She also showed them the number.


    "Awww, that is so cute! Are you going to wear it? Though, these accessories are kind of not modern." Claire pouted and quickly muttered her opinion after seeing the brooch.


    "Hmmn, help me pin this on my left chest. It''s not really outdated to wear a brooch. It feels kind of royalty. Hehe, Maybe we can also personalize a brooch for our squad," Sofia smiled. She used to own several brooches with unique designs when she was still a CEO. Wearing this kind of accessory was common in business meetings and attending galas.


    "That is also a good idea. Some squad has personalized pendants and necklace. Others are bracelets or jackets. Ours could be a brooch!" Joey joined their conversation. The idea was sudden but when Joey heard Sofia said that wearing a brooch gives a royal feeling, he quickly agreed.


    "This event has been well thought by the organizers." Stephen casually said while walking next to Joey.


    "It is. Job well done to the organizers for their creativity!" Sofia easily replied a compliment and guided her group directly into the third booth.


    One staff who happened to pass near their group quickly grinned after hearing her praise and recognition. Such simple appreciation could actually give bigger impact.


    "You can actually recognize creativity? I thought your mind is only focused on your tank!" Claire playfully said while her eyes were still on the brooch that was pinned on Sofia''s left chest.


    Her remarks struck Sofia with a sudden realization. Yes, the old Sofia who had lost her soul would never think of complimenting a staff. The original Sofia would never pay attention to this kind of detail!


    "Hahaha, sometimes there are DIY ads. It can''t be helped. After seeing them so many times, I am probably influenced!" Sofia laughed and used an alibi. Fortunately, Claire did not think too much about her response also.


    As they arrived inside the third booth, Joey was busy on his phone contacting Clark. He was the only member that had not arrived yet. But knowing him, they could already identify the reason behind it.


    "This Clark is still asleep for sure! If he comes late, I will really strangle that kid!" Joey grumbled as few wrinkled lines were shown on his forehead.


    "Why are you so anxious? We have time. It had just been 7 am. I''m sure his driver will bring him here on time." Stephen yawned and directly sat on one of the sofas.


    "Ahh, you are right! Heh! Perhaps, I am just a bit nervous!" Joey scratched his head and also sat beside him.


    "Haha, I am not nervous," Stephen smirked. Then, his eyes darted on the next booth, "Now, I see why you are nervous!" he teased.


    Familiar faces were occupying the 2nd booth. Clark''s brother, James and his other friends were there. Of course, Joey''s ex was among them!


    "Tsk!" Joey clicked his tongue and rolled his eyes. "Now, look at that. Clark''s brother is here but Clark is not!" Joey continued to complain.


    "Should we asked him if where his brother is?" Stephen continued to bother Joey.


    "Should I tell this certain amazing girl that you have a crush on her?" Joey finally found a way to fight back Stephen. A glimmer of light sparked in his eyes that was enough to tell his friend that it was game on! Stephen slumped his shoulder in defeat.


    "Now, you become silent? That''s all you got, bro?" Joey joked. He could see the ears of Stephen turning red. It was enough to confirm everything.


    "HAHAHA..." Stephen loudly laugh to mask his feelings and quickly stood from his seat. "Want me to get you dark coffee, Sof?" he moved towards Sofia who was also focused on her phone.


    "No need, I ordered our breakfast online. Are you hungry? Just wait for about 15 minutes. It will be here soon." She looked up and met Stephen''s gaze.


    "Errr 15 minutes is fine." Stephen looked away and decided to go back to his seat.


    Not long after, a huge number of people entered in the same booth as them.


    Claire looked at Sofia intently as if she was using telepathy to relay her message on Sofia''s head. But Sofia was not paying attention to the new arrivals. She was busy typing something on her phone.


    After realizing that Sofia won''t look in her direction, Claire took her phone and sent a message.


    To: Sofia


    You have predicted it correctly. We may really face 7 squads in one time. I''m kinda nervous!


    Sofia did not make any movements other than typing on her phone. But Claire did receive a reply from her.


    From: Sofia


    Don''t worry, Claire. It would still be fake alliances. Even if they agree not to attack themselves in the early minutes, the game rules will not change. These 7 squads, if they cast their skills, they won''t have immunity from their other fake ally squads.


    Claire took a deep breath. Somehow, she felt at ease, ''Sofia is right. They can join together to attack our squad but, the rules inside the game are still absolute. They have no protection against other squads.''


    Stephen also stared at the group of people. There were exactly 35 of them! It was too easy to distinguish their numbers as every squad usually wore the same jacket. And that''s exactly what the 7 squads did.


    Stephen also wanted to speak to his group that Sofia was right. It may be more than just a coincidence that the 7 squads entered together.


    But, he did not want to cause a fight. Even with his reputation, at least he felt like avoiding any conflict between players. They can fight inside the game but they could be friends outside. So, he decided to stay silent.


    "Wow, this is so considerate of the organizers!" they heard a man exclaimed.


    The booth was average but there were 8 mini sofas and tables on it. There is also a hot and cold vending machine for drinks on the corner which gave every squad the convenience they need while waiting for their turn to play.


    With the arrival of the 7 squads, almost all of the 40-player map participants were already complete. Well, almost. Because up until that moment, even Clark''s shadow had not yet shown up!


    "Just the four of you?" one female eyed Stephen and asked. She completely ignored the identity of Sofia as the squad leader. Perhaps, an intentional action to create some psychological warfare to the Chronos squad members.


    Stephen glanced at the female and saw a brooch on the hem of her jacket. It indicated that she was a squad leader.


    Just as she expected Stephen to respond to her question, the boy turned his head and looked away. He completely ignored her!


    Stephen was also smart to notice the girl''s action. Since she was a squad leader, she should have known better. If she wanted to speak to her opponent, the professional thing to do was to approach their leader first rather than a member. Sofia was just sitting in front of her also!


    "Are you a mute?" the female pressed further and urged Stephen for an answer. She crossed her arms on her chest and looked displeased for being ignored.


    Out of a sudden, Sofia stood from the sofa and copied her action. She also crossed her arms on her chest and look at the female at the same eye level.


    The air around them suddenly became tense! But most of the other squads feign ignorance of the brewing conflict. They just secretly observe the two out of the corner of their eyes.


    As soon as the two squad leaders made eye contact, both of their faces revealed a challenging gaze but, Sofia''s eyes showed nothing but a blank emotion, devoid of anything other than the look of a deep bottomless pit. It was the kind of expression that one could sense the darkness ready to engulfed its prey!


    The female subconsciously rubbed her elbow. The sight of Sofia''s eyes somehow made her felt uncomfortable.


    "Do you need anything from my squad?" Sofia asked. Her tone was cautious yet it was laced with coldness causing the female to slightly move her high heels backward.


    To mask her discomfort, the lady smirked and examined Sofia''s outfit from head to toe. Her eyes traveled from Sofia''s short hair to the casual blouse, unbranded skinny jeans, and cheap sandals.


    "You are really a newbie." the female declared. But as she looked up, she found herself struggling to maintain composure. She could feel that the air became suffocating.


    Sofia shrugged and smiled sweetly at her. The kind of sweet smile that the movies portrayed to be poisonous. Deadly.


    In a very low tone, Sofia spoke her response that made the girl stood frozen.


    "A newbie? Heh! We are the newbie that would bring home the victory." Sofia made sure that no one could hear what she just spoke other than the female before she casually returned to her seat.


    Although she was not looking, she could tell the female meant to insult her position as the squad leader of the Chronos squad. Too bad for her, she had picked a wrong target.

 Chapter 20 - The Calmness Before The Storm

    Bring home the victory! The female trembled in rage. Her nails that were painted with bright red nail polish curled in her palms and slowly formed into a fist. Sofia''s tone successfully taunted her anger.


    "Naive! Among all the squads inside this booth, right now, only your squad got zero chance of winning. Do you hear me? Zero!" the female stressed out as her face turned grim. Her members quickly approached her and gathered in front of Sofia''s team who were just sitting.


    "Don''t look down on newbies! My squad is new but not the players that are beside me. We had been playing this game too." Joey interrupted. Thankfully, Clark was not yet beside him.


    Sofia''s face had turned serious. There was no trace of smile or amusement in her eyes. "There''s no need to talk. We will see on the battlefield," she muttered and tucked her hair.


    "Hah! How arrogant! I tell you right now, you don''t need to enter the match and meet us on the battlefield! There is no difference as we will eliminate your group in the first minute of the game! Do your team a favor and just go home!" the female ranted as fumes of anger could almost be seen gushing out in her nose


    Just go home! They could feel the blunt hostility of the female''s tone as she spoke. Stephen comically shook his head and sighed. So much for expecting a bond of friendship from the newcomers. It would seem that they were not just assigned as opponents inside the game. They were also destined to be enemies in real life!


    Claire subconsciously grabbed Sofia''s arms for support. "Sof, I promise to give the first blood to that nasty girl as a gift for insulting our squad," she whispered. Her voice was full of assurance.


    Sofia glanced at Claire and nodded. Claire was her first friend in the game. They had been playing as a duo before they decided to form their team. With her friend''s skill, she had no doubts.


    "First 40 seconds, Claire," Sofia muttered.


    Claire''s eyes immediately went big. Forty seconds! Sofia just directed her to eliminate the female''s character within the first 40 seconds of the game!


    "Ehhh..." she awkwardly smoothed her dress and smiled sheepishly. "Isn''t that a bit hard to do? I need a miracle to pull that off, Sof!" Claire bit her lips as she started to imagine how to execute the first kill within the forty seconds of the game.


    "It is easy. Just sneaked out on your lane and find her." Sofia replied.


    "Ehh? How could it be easy? It''s not like her team won''t protect her!" Claire argued while countless images about the game flashed in her mind. The female was a squad leader. Her team would definitely not allow her to be slain, otherwise, a squad losing a leader, not only it would impact the morale of the members, but the squad would certainly be in an extreme disadvantage side of the match.


    "They won''t. They will focus on attacking us and destroying our towers. I am certain that they will ignore their defense. With so many of them, her members would be confident that none of us would charge out and counterattack. You can combine your stealth skill and teleport afterward. It''s a good opportunity to catch them off-guard at the earliest possible time." Sofia instructed.


    Claire sighed, finally understanding how her friend viewed their match. Sofia''s analysis was also valid. Sometimes in games, players can easily grow complacent, especially when they have great advantages. They would think that their enemy is easy to beat, hence they would bully them for a little more instead of pushing to reach their final goal.


    With such a mindset, they usually ignore the fact that if victory is not yet served on their plate, those on the disadvantage side may come back and overturn the entire match.


    This is because, even though most online games rely on statistics, in a real-time strategic type of game, the most crucial point is the strategy and luck. The gameworld used a term called ''cancer'' for this type of player. Mainly because the mindset could be compared to the disease that would make a bad impact on the team''s overall performance- worst-case scenario, defeat. While those teammates who became a burden in the team were oftentimes branded as ''noobs''. Usually, those players would act like newbies, constantly feeding the enemies, and slow to react during team clashes. But such names could also overlap.


    Of course, luck is included in winning. After all, it is just a game and some players have immeasurable luck in this field. Gamers sometimes can receive success or failure merely because of a chance rather than through their ability. This factor is triggered by the amount of their luck.


    Joey cast a concerned look on his two teammates - Sofia and Claire. He could tell that they were both having conversations but despite the few inches in their distance, girls have their way to perform secret discussions. He could not hear what they were talking about!


    "Leader, don''t waste your time on these amateurs." a girl comforted the female as their group went to an empty sofa.


    "You''re right! We will teach them a lesson later." the female muttered as she tried to calm her emotions.


    Outside the gymnasium, a rich boy was in a mess. It was his first time participating in a tournament and he didn''t have any idea where he should go!


    All participating squads were already settled on their booths, thus, when Clark arrived, the only queue he saw was for the audience entrance. He directly went to the door, ignoring the long line behind him.


    Seeing his action, people started to voice out their complaints and grievances.


    "How dare this boy walked directly on the door! Hey, go back to your line!"


    "Hey! We are here first!"


    "Yes, respect us! We have been waiting for our turn also."


    Clark ignore the chattering criticisms and went straight to the guard stationed on the entrance door.


    "Sir, you must wait for your turn. Please go back to your line. It is unfair for those who came here first," the guard did not wait for Clark to speak. Seeing that everyone had exercised patience for their queue except Clark, the guard quickly got annoyed. But, he had exercised self-restraint and still explained to Clark the situation!


    Unfortunately, that was not the real situation that Clark was facing! The line was for the audience and he was a participant in the tournament!


    Clark could not help but walked back and went to the last person in line. He stood there for about five minutes. The sun started to shine brightly and the heat was almost unbearable for a boy who was not fond of outdoor activity.


    "I regret going here at almost the last minute. Why did my alarm clock did not wake me!?" Clark mumbled and put all the blame on his alarm clock for not being too loud when it rang. He slowly took his phone out of his pocket to seek help from his friends.


    As soon as he opened his screen, the notifications of countless missed calls and messages greeted his eyes. He then realized that his phone was accidentally placed on a silent mode!


    "Ohh no!" Clark slightly panicked when he saw the last message of Joey for him.


    From: Squad_Joey


    We are in booth 3. Just get inside and find us. If you come late, I will strangle you to death!


    Clark could almost hear his wild heartbeat in panic despite the noise of his surroundings. It was overwhelming! Luckily, a delivery man stopped on the other side of the entrance and asked for a person''s name.


    Clark overheard Sofia''s name being mentioned by the guard.


    The boy did not waste his time. In full haste, he quickly dashed forward and ran towards the other door. People near his line looked at him weirdly.


    "Where is he going?"


    "Ahh... that''s the participant''s entrance. Is he going to ask for an autograph maybe?"


    "Could it be that he was also a participant?"


    "Ehh? I don''t think so..."


    The people quickly voiced their opinion as they were watching at the retreating figure of Clark going away from their line. They even laugh slightly when Clark was almost stumbled on the ground because of his awkward run!


    Meanwhile, Sofia walked out of booth number 3 to received her ordered breakfast. Just as she was about to approach the delivery man, she caught sight of Clark running at full speed. The boy was like participating in a race with invisible contenders!


    Her brows formed a line by the sight of Clark running towards her. "Why are running? You are not yet late." Sofia called out.


    Clark finally arrived panting and gasping of air. His ragged breath was too concerning as of he would collapse in any minute. The guard and delivery man worriedly looked at him.


    "Are you okay sir? Is somebody chasing you?" the finally curiously asked. Based on Clark''s speed, he assumed that some thugs were probably following him.


    "Ah! Hehehe... no, no, I''m okay," Clark could only laugh at his situation. He casually took an expensive handkerchief on his picket and wiped the beads of sweat on his forehead. The quick run had almost burned down all of his energy.


    "Your stamina is so low, Clark. You better exercise outdoor." Sofia told him. The distance from when he run was just a few meters. But his body was almost collapsing! Noticing his rapid breathing, she handed him a bottle of water from the delivery that she just received.


    "Thank you!" Sofia thanked the delivery man and the guard before she turned around. Clark immediately opened the bottle and took a big gulp.


    "It''s embarrassing but I almost got lost. It''s my first time to be in an online tournament." Clark admitted as they walked together.


    "You could have stayed in your car and called anyone so that we can pick you, rich kid." Sofia chuckled.


    "I''m about to call! But when I notice the delivery man, my feet decided to run!" Clark reasoned out. Then he covered the handkerchief to his mouth after he realized what he just said! It was so childish of him to blame his feet for running!


    "Hahaha, your feet really are impressive! It''s all good. We will be playing on the third elimination round. Have you eaten your breakfast? I also ordered a portion of a packed meal for you." Sofia informed him. Although Clark has not yet arrived when she placed her order, the food was actually good for the five of them already.


    "Hehehe, I can eat again!" Clark grinned and felt happy that Sofia had included him.


    When the two arrived at their booth, all eyes darted to Clark.


    "Boy! You almost had me worry that you''d be late!" Joey was the first to express his concern.


    "Don''t mind him. I heard that he was nervous!" Sofia casually laughed.


    "No, that''s not true!" Joey denied as he took his meal out from her. But a dent of red could be seen on his face.


    Sofia giggled, "Hehehe, let''s eat. We need full energy to get that victory."


    "I was also nervous. But then, after I ran, I have forgotten to be nervous! Haha if you are nervous, you can also run, Joey!" Clark suggested while chewing his food.


    "Tsk! What run? I exercise every day! My father is a basketball coach. He is very particular about building stamina in my body!" Joey scowled.


    "Hey guys, we can do jogging sometimes! The five of us! It should be fun!" Claire excitedly proposed.


    "Yes, we can do that! It''s a good bonding and we can stay fit!" Sofia agreed.


    While the group was having this conversation over their meal, the other squads secretly mocked behind them. Such conversation could be deemed as inappropriate. They are in a competition but the squad was discussing a different topic!


    "They are the Chronos squad, right? Look at them! They did not even discuss the game."


    "Yes, they were talking about exercise! Hehehe, How is this connected in the game later?"


    "They are amateurs and this group does not know what to talk! They could even chill and eat. This squad can easily be eliminated!"


    "Leave them. We can feel at ease to defeat them easily because of their ignorance."


    Unbeknownst to these squads, Sofia''s team had long prepared a plan for the match. They already knew what to do and what to execute. Thus, there is no need for her team to discuss the game. All they could do is to relax until it would be their turn to play.

 Chapter 21 - The First Round Gameplay In 40-Player Map

    "Nice!!!"


    "Wow!!"


    "Amazing!!!"


    A blast of squeals and cheers erupted on the bleachers where the audiences were assembled. The huge screen at the center stage displayed the game characters with their new cinematic. It was a refined animation where tanks, marksmen, mages, fighters, assassins, and supports were executing their skills in a form of showdown.


    "This new video is so good!" one audience continued to applaud even though the animations were finished.


    "Yes, the visuals of archers when the arrow flies above the moon was too mind-blowing!" the person sitting behind him commented.


    "No, it''s the assassin, when it was casting the stealth to be invisible, ahhh, more beautiful!" another audience disagreed.


    "EH? I don''t know how to play assassin! So, I think the marksman was great!" the person insisted.


    "Tsk! It was the mage when it cast an ultimate to summon the elements! Are you blind? When the water and fire formed into YinYang form, it''s more beautiful!"


    "No way! It was the support. Look at how beautiful the new skin of the support! I must buy this on the next update of the game! Hihihi"


    The entire crowd could not help but clap their hands in awe until the play ended. Such a show was pleasing and brilliantly presented. Various opinions quickly sounded as the audiences started to compare the animations with the role that they usually play in the game. They have their own appraisals as to which character was greatly animated.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome!" the host quickly followed to greet the audience and the cheering became louder than before! It was almost deafening!


    "Woooohhh..."


    "Yeahh!"


    "Yessss!!!"


    The host smiled widely and looked around with misty eyes. This man also used to play games during his early age. But, the gamers in his generation were just a few and could not even occupy a small gym.


    ''Time has really flown by and the gaming community had grown well!'' the host thought as he waited for the cheers to calm down a bit. He took a deep breath and wiped the tear in his eyes. To him, it was an emotional event as well.


    After a minute of joyous screaming from the bleachers, the host continued, "Today marks a history of gaming in District 7! This is not only because this day is the first-ever online tournament held in this place. The game will also introduce to us a new map for the elimination round! Developers have worked hard to give us the widest map to give you all the wildest experiences in the game! This is the 40-Player map! We thank you all for the overwhelming support that you have showered in this competition."


    One by one, the host mentioned all sponsors of the tournament. Then, he quickly introduced the important guests and commentators for the game. After that, the screen showed the names of squads that were assigned to be opponents. Minutes passed and all the formalities were completed. The host quickly introduced the 40 players in the first booth to go inside their lounge.


    "Gosh, this battle is so insane! 40 players! I can''t wait to see this!" one audience exclaimed from his seat while the players started walking towards the center.


    The 8 lounges were placed in the middle of the gymnasium that was usually a court for basketball and other activity. Eight small desks that could fit for only 5 players were meticulously arranged with glass windows. On the desk were the accessories and the devices needed for them to play the game. Everything was sponsored by a prominent tech company. All they need to do was to sit and play.


    On the stage, the large screen projected the logo of the game. Then, the 8 squad names followed with their squad status which was placed above - next to their names.


    There were only 3 active data that could be seen on the squad details: Kills, Exp, and Gold.


    In the normal 5v5 map of the game, scores were counted based on KDA. But, the scoring for this match would be based solely on the team performance instead of the usual individual numbers of kills, deaths, and support.


    This was because, during this elimination round, there would be no command for respawning. Meaning, once a character turned dead, the players'' screen will also become gray and he can no longer return to fight. He can only wait until the end.


    Hence, the game won''t count the number of individual deaths. Players would only die once. As for the number of individual support, the developers were very careful.


    This was the first time they would introduce the map. So, they decided to simplify the data because there were too many players on the map. It may bug or slow down the entire software as it would need to loop too many commands for it to be displayed and be updated constantly. Moreover, it may confuse the audience instead of giving them a wholesome experience while watching the battle.


    The above data on the large screen would simply show eight squad''s status.


    [Squad Name]: Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    The bottom data were flawlessly designed to display the items of every 40 players. And on the center of the screen was the 40-Player map of the battlefield.


    "One base and the three final towers. Don''t you think this match would be too easy to win instead of the usual map with one base and nine towers?" An audience questioned. From his perspective, having only one tower for each lane as a defense would easily give access to the enemy to invade the base.


    "That is why this match is exciting! There are 8 squads that would compete for one victory. With this single tower placed in the bottom, mid, and top lane, the challenge of offense and defense will be extremely hard for the squad to execute!" the person sitting next to him responded.


    "Yes, if a squad attacks their chosen target, it means they need to leave their towers and charge. But, it would make their territory wide open and another squad will surely take the opportunity and destroy their base. So, it''s hard to choose how to take action on this map! They need a great strategy for them to get the victory!" another person agreed.


    When the audience looked closer at the new map, they realized that the design was similar to a compass. Every base was strategically placed in 8 equal locations on the edge of the map:


    Base 1 - North


    Base 2- South


    Base 3- East


    Base 4- West


    Base 5- North-East


    Base 6- South-East


    Base 7- North-West


    Base 8- South-West


    For the jungle of the map, the monsters were also multiplied in accordance with the number of squads inside. This would give players the opportunities to farm with equal jungle elements.


    "Do you think this map would be available in the next game update?"


    "Maybe? It''s nice to play this map."


    Some audience started to speculate whether they could play in an 8 squad battle. The game did not release an official statement yet about its new map. But, their speculation was immediately cleared out by the host.


    "This map is only exclusive for official tournaments of the game. Sadly, with a wide map like this, the resources are also plenty. It would be too heavy to be included in the current game."


    The audience nodded their heads in agreement after hearing the statement from the host. Although they felt a bit sad, it was also understandable. With the many resources of the game, it would require large storage space of their device.


    Not long after, the commentators of the match took over the speaker and the first round quickly started.


    Inside the third booth of the participant''s area, Sofia and her team were also focused on watching the match.


    It was indeed an extremely chaotic fight. There were no fake alliances between the 8 squads competing in the first round and most players were playing by instinct. Some characters have even charged forward without thinking and were slain easily.


    Seeing the chaotic battles of game characters, the commentators were also at a loss! They were confused about how to describe the ongoing fights. All they could do was announced which squad was eliminated.


    "Alright, now there are four squads, oh no! Now there are three..."


    "Ehem, what an eye-opener! This round would surely give the next participants the idea of how to play in the map!"


    Players continued to attack without any sense of direction. These were pro players but at that moment, their gameplays were not synchronized at all!


    Perhaps, it was because these players were used to the usual game mode where they could revive after dying. The thought of charging towards the opponent to kill, however, they were slain instead! Only after they died and did not saw a revive countdown on their screen, they realized their mistake.


    "Ahhh, I can''t revive!" many players have the same opinion when their character died. They could only do a hard facepalm for their mistakes.


    The entire round lasted for 8 minutes. While the first-round players were frustrated with their errors, the audiences were laughing so hard in their seats. Some were even holding their stomach as they suppressed the sound of their laughter.


    The first round was like a comedy play in the eyes of the audience! Especially when the operator let them watched the gameplays with epic fails!


    It was a replay highlight of all the epic fails!


    Even the operators inside the computer room were grinning widely as they witnessed the first round.


    "What the heck was that?" one operator commented as he continued to zoom in on the epic fails of the match.


    "It was indeed a heck of whats!" his companion chuckled.


    The host also scratched his head and cleared his throat. "Wow! What an entertaining battle! Hehehe I see everyone is laughing! This concludes the first round. Congratulations to Heavenly Noob Squad for winning the first elimination round. Now, let''s see what kind of battle we will be going to witness on the next round!"


    The players on the 2nd booth quickly went to the middle. While they were still preparing to log in to their accounts, the host repeatedly thank the sponsors of the tournament.


    "What do you think about the 40-Player map?" The Fab_Gamers squad leader asked his two companions. They were able to occupy the front seat with perfect views from the player''s lounge and also the screen on the stage.


    "Boss WINS, this map is so complicated to play!"


    "Yes, boss. Just by the first round, it really needs great teamwork and strategy! Those first eight squads lacked preparations! So I can say that the match result was based purely on luck."


    WINS rubbed his chin while in deep thought. He was also observing the gameplay. He could easily tell that not only teamwork but also team coordination was required to win the game. Game tacticians would definitely enjoy creating various tactics for a map like this.


    WINS quickly took his phone and opened his email account. He then composed a message and sent it to Sofia.


    To: The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED


    Good luck!


    Just as he was about to exit his email app, his recipient sent a quick reply.


    From: The Chronos Squad CEO UNRIVALED


    Your squad helped us with our preparation. With our practice match, this round can be conquered. If we don''t win, we will be embarrassed for wasting the time of your squad.


    WINS glanced at the 3rd booth in the participant''s area where Sofia was occupying. Although he had not seen their group yet, as a pro player, he could easily tell which one was the Chronos squad. All the other seven squads were wearing the uniform of their squad blazers and jackets. While there was only one team that did not bother wearing a uniform. And only one member of this team was holding a phone. Which confirmed his guess that the player behind CEO UNRIVALED was Sofia.


    "Boss, why are you not watching the game?!" his member asked after noticing that his eyes were focused on the 3rd booth.


    "Hehehe boss, what are you looking at? Tell us, tell us," the other member grinned sheepishly, It was rare to see their squad leader getting distracted. So, they assumed that he might be looking for something more interesting than the game.


    "The Chronos squad will play the next round," WINS mumbled.


    His two companions quickly turned their attention to the 3rd booth. Then, they also realized which players were from the Chronos Squad.

 Chapter 22 - First Blood Promise

    The second round ended with a fair fight. When Clark praised his brother as a good marksman user, he was not biased at all. James performed a perfect core for his squad.


    "Good job, Vultramites Squad!" he yelled and waved his hands at James.


    Comparing to the initial chaotic match, the players have performed cleaner gameplay. Clark enthusiastically clapped his hands to cheer for his brother when their squad was announced as the winner of the round. James also waved back and smiled at his direction before he joined his group.


    "Ahhh... it''s us now!" Clark muttered.


    "Just stick to the formation." Sofia gave him a gentle pat on his shoulder. Clark took a deep breath and offered a bright smile to her.


    "Aight, give me a pat too. I suddenly felt nervous!" Joey leaned his shoulder near Sofia after noticing the gesture she gave to Clark. They all giggled as Sofia patted his back.


    "Are you nervous too? Do you need a pat?" Sofia turned her attention to Stephen and Claire. Both of them playfully nodded and gestured their confirmation.


    Sofia shook her head while a warm smile was plastered in her lips, she then patted them gently. These four people, they were the very first people that would be under her care since her soul transmigrated. Their value weigh so much in her heart.


    Side by side, their group slowly stepped out of their booth. They were the last squad to walked towards the middle lounge.


    On the stage, the large screen quickly displayed the squad names for the third round. The audience started to chatter when they saw familiar squad names.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, we have witnessed two types of gameplay from the previous matches. So far, we have laughed and enjoyed watching the match. For the third round, what kind of gameplay would these participants show to us?" the commentator spoke as the players in the 3rd booth were starting to gather on the middle lounges.


    "Yes! The third round consists of several distinguished squads. We have the Beast Squads and Elite Players Squad. They are a famous group of streamers that I know, some of you have been following on your social media! Who do you think will win for this round?" the second commentator urged and the crowd instantly went wild.


    "Go Beast Squads!!! Go!! Go!!! Go!!!" a female in the middle of the crowd cheered boldly. She was holding a poster with the name of her favorite squad.


    "Elite Players Squad for the win!!! Woohhhooo" another voice followed.


    On the bleachers, the fans of the two squads quickly cheered for them.


    "Alright! Guys, we also have Hidden Wind Squad and HyperCarry Squad! These groups are known for their aggressive gameplays. This round surely... a hundred percent sure that this will be a thing to watch!" the first commentator shouted to gather all the audience''s attention.


    "Ohh... and the all-female squad is also in this round. I''m sure the fans of Legendary Gamers Squad are here. Make some noise!"


    "Woohhh..."


    "Go Legendary Gamers!!!"


    "Wait, there''s more! The Pilot Gaming Squad and Noob Amateurs Squad are also part of this squad. Too many famous streamers in this match!"


    "PG!!! Pilot Gaming do your best!!!"


    "Noob Amateurs get that victory!!!"


    The energy of the crowd continued to build up as the commentators continued to introduce the squads.


    "Lastly, we have a newly formed group named The Chronos Squad."


    On the front side, the three figures from FAB_Gamers clapped their hands. Also, on the booth number 5, Brent, the leader of the Lee Gaming Squad was also smiling from ear to ear as he looked at Sofia sitting on their center lounge. He ordered his squad to clap, which gave the members a no choice but to cheer for Chronos. The other squads were slightly baffled by their enthusiasm for just a new group.


    "I don''t know about this Chronos squad, but it looks like the Lee Gaming Squad is supporting them." one of the squad leader on fifth booth whispered secretly to his team. But his comments were drowned by the cheering of Brent''s squad.


    The players immediately settled their account and the large screen displayed the countdown of the match. After five seconds, the screen display changed.


    Game Start!


    [The Chronos Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    [Elite Players Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    [Legendary Gamers Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    [Noob Amateurs Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    [Beast Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    [Pilot Gaming Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    [Hidden Wind Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    [HyperCarry Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 0, Gold: 0


    "Okay folks, here we go!" the commentator mentioned as the countdown finished and all characters were transported to the 40-Player map. Every stats of all eight squads were zoom on the screen. Then, the viewers perspective changed to the entire map and showed all the squads.


    "Our players are on move!" the other commentator announced seeing the characters were sprinting out of their lane.


    The audiences were silent that they could only hear the speaker on stage and the background sound of the game. They looked on the screen intently and suddenly realized the direction of these players. They were all going towards the base to located on the North. When they examined, they saw that it was the base of the Chronos Squad.


    "AHA! It seems that our players for this round have agreed to remove one squad first! Ahhh, I felt bad for the Chronos Squad!" the commentator was also quick to analyze the situation.


    It had just been 15 seconds of the game but the commentators immediately realized that the goal of the 7 squads. Based on their movements, they could tell that these squads have an under the table agreement. But such agreement was not prohibited in the rules of the tournament. So, their would be no sanction on their actions.


    They were not attacking each other. If an enemy would be near their range, they will just ignore it and proceed to move forward.


    Their characters just continued to sprint in one direction.


    "Interesting!" WINS mumbled. He also got the gist of what would happen. He didn''t thought of the possibility but now, he realized the fake alliances of the squads.


    The operator quickly zoomed in on the characters of the Chronos squad.


    "Okay! So, here is the Chronos squad. Their tank on the top lane. The support and marksman on the mid lane. Their assassin on the bottom lane. They will need a tight defense! Can they survive against these huge number of enemies?" the first commentator started to narrate.


    "Wait a minute, their mage is not moving?! The Chronos squad mage is still on the base?! What is happening?! Is he AFK?!" the other commentator was quick to describe the scene. Unlike the previous match which they were confused about which squad to look, this one was easier to speak their opinions.


    "The mage looks like he is really AFK! They are really done!" the first commentator agreed after seeing that Clark''s mage character with the name above his head ''Amateur Mage'', just stayed on the base.


    "Wow!!! So this Chronos squad has 4 active members only? Did the mage got disconnected? What a troublesome situation!" the commentator lamented.


    On the front seats of the audience area, the members of FAB_Gamers were also baffled about why Clark did not move his character.


    "During our practice match, their mage is kind of newbie."


    "Yes, he is a newbie. His skills are not yet fully developed."


    "Boss WINS, why is the mage not moving? I know he is not so good. Could it be that he become so scared and did not move?"


    "It''s their strategy. Just pay attention." WINS answered. His face had also gone serious while glancing from the player''s lounge to the big screen. He looked back and forth to see the reaction of Sofia''s team.


    "Strategy? Ahh!! They don''t look like they are scared indeed." his member stated as he also caught a glimpse of Sofia''s squad just sitting calmly on their desk. In fact, Clark was swaying his legs like he was inside a casual party listening to a good music!


    "AHH, these seven squads are bullying!!!" an audience sitting on the most corner of the bleachers voiced out his sentiment.


    "This is really bullying! How can that Chronos squad survive with all the squads against them!" another audience speculated. He then took a picture of the big screen and posted it on his social media. The hashtag bullies as well as the names of the seven squads swiftly gained public attention.


    "This should not be allowed!"


    "How shameless are these squad to form an alliance outside the game!"


    More audience could not help but voice out their sympathy after realizing the intention of the 7 squads. Although they are not familiar with the Chronos squad, they knew how it felt when a strong opponent would bully the weaker players.


    Few more seconds passed and the large screen switched to displayed five members of other squads from every corner, passing to the river and almost arrived on the Chronos squad territory.


    Some audience shook their head as they also felt sorry for the situation of the Chronos Squad. It was clear to them that there would be no way for any means to survive under the hands of these many enemies, The group was clearly outnumbered!


    Some audience felt grieved, they know that the Chronos squad was really done for. No matter which angles to look or analyze, they have no escape!


    Just as the wave of enemies from various squad arrived near the towers of the Chronos squad, a notification on the system turned everyone into shock! This notification made all the audience hold their breath. The bleachers become abnormally quiet.


    Even the operator of the screen got into a momentary trance inside the computer room. The members of the 7 squads were also stiffened as they sat on their lounge. They were all caught off-guard by the sudden notification.


    Some audience subconsciously stood from their seat while others have their eyes wide open.


    "First Blood!" only the announcement of the speaker confirmed the unexpected first kill!


    The eyes of the operator quickly looked on the entire map and immediately zoom in on Claire''s assassin with the name ''Almighty Killer''. After he saw the initial formation of the Chronos squad, his attention went to the other players. At that moment, this operator was focusing on the other squad marching towards the territory of the Chronos squad. So he did not notice that the assassin, Almighty Killer, had actually left in its position!


    "WHAT THE FFFFF!!!"


    "OHH MYYYY, Almighty Killer! This assassin is really worthy of its name! First kill!!!"


    "WHAAT HAPPENED, I NEED A REPLAY!!!"


    "UNBELIEVABLE!!! JUST WHAAAT??? FIRST BLOOD? IS THIS FOR REAL???"


    The audience quickly shouted when the large screen emphasized the location of Claire''s assassin, Almighty Killer. She was still in the grass but was about to teleport.


    "REPLAY!"


    "REPLAY!"


    "REPLAY!"


    All audience quickly demanded and chanted for a replay. None of them had expected that kill. The game had not yet even reached in one minute! It was just too unbelievable to get a first kill for this early seconds of the match!


    A quick replay finally flashed in front of the crowd and they were all awed by the assassination. They could tell that the player using the assassin had a full grasp on the map.


    From the bottom lane, the assassin, Almighty Killer, activated stealth and run towards the jungle area. This movement was too similar during the cinematic before the game starts. The audience smiled and turned speechless. Even the operator inside the computer room forgot to close his mouth after seeing the jaw dropping scene.


    Then, the character crossed the river. Its speed was abnormally fast. She was hiding from one grass to another every time her stealth wears off.


    It was clear that Almighty Killer was looking for a particular target since she did not attack a potential player that could also be slain. Or perhaps, she was waiting for a perfect timing...


    After few seconds of hiding, she finally saw her target. In just a blink of an eye, she silenced her victim, and a burst of her damage followed to end its victim''s life! She needed speed so that she can escape before her enemy could detect her.


    Claire utilized all her skills and swiftly hide on the grass as if nothing had just happened. The execution was too quick! The performance was extremely breath taking!


    "Perfect!!!"


    "Well done!!!"


    "Almighty Killer, what a suitable name! WOW!!!"


    "Assassin users are very OP!"


    "Nice one!"


    The audience quickly muttered praises after seeing the replay. Admiration and respect was evident on their face. Even if the Chronos squad would be defeated, this first blood was enough to gain their respect from the audience! They were just newbies but their reputation soared quickly!


    With the first blood, the Chronos squad took the lead of all stats. Even if the 7 squads were targeting them, they managed to create a deficit of all stats to their enemies!


    In the map, some players quickly looked in the grass as they realized that their squad leader was eliminated! They scanned the surroundings but they found nothing!


    "WOW!!! Who would have thought?!! We never saw that coming! The first kill of this match goes to the Chronos squad! Excellent display of ability from the assassin!" the commentator exclaimed in excitement. His eyes sparked with excitement and his face looked so bright. He was deeply moved by the display of precision and great timing of Claire''s Almighty Killer.

 Chapter 23 - Die In Vain

    Along with the crowd''s overwhelming uproar, the commentator''s sound had almost turned low and deafened. These two commentators grinned at the audience while scratching their heads. They needed to stop for a few breaths and let the crowd shout their wild emotions.


    The first blood could be a record of the earliest first kill that was executed in the game history ever.


    "That was surely an incredible statement of action! The Chronos squad was declaring their dominance folks!!! I can''t believe it! Despite the numbers of their enemies that are about to attack them on all sides, they are now in the lead! This round would definitely be different from the last two matches!" the commentator also burst in joy after the audience finally tone down.


    In this kind of situation, it was just satisfying to see that those at the disadvantage could find a way to fight back. When great yet, unforeseen things befell, the kind of pleasure and satisfaction in the game would also be at a different level!


    "Bravo!" WINS also complimented and joined the hype of his fellow audience''s admiration. His companions stared at his face for a while.


    "Boss WINS, it is my first time to hear you say that!" the one sitting on his left side commented.


    "Yes, I have never heard you praised someone with that kind of intensity boss!" the other one sitting on his right side chuckled.


    "What do you think was that?" WINS smirked at the two.


    "That''s what you call, perfect assassin gameplay!" his member followed him.


    WINS raise his thumbs in agreement. Surely, the first blood would be a good high light for this round.


    Meanwhile, on the player''s lounge, a soft noise of a foot stomped on the floor sounded. Claire''s eyes were blinking rapidly. Even though she got the first skill, a slight frustration was evident in her face.


    Nobody could guess why she looked so downcast. But if one would examine closely at the time stamp where she got the first kill, it was 00:46.


    Her eyebrows formed a line while her character was teleporting back to the base. Only her own self could understand her sentiments! Sofia had told her to get the first kill within the first 40 seconds of the game. She was 6 seconds late!


    "My boots are too slow!" Claire mumbled and positioned her character back on the bottom lane.


    Some of their enemies abruptly halted from their movements after Claire took the first kill. They did not dare to move forward in fear that the assassin was just roaming on the jungle. Now, they felt like they have become the prey of the single squad that they were targeting!


    The Legendary Gamers Squad members gulped from their seats. They have completely lost their momentum. Unexpectedly, their squad leader died in a most embarrassing way! She did not even manage to make it in the first minute of the match!


    They cast a glance at their female leader and they saw how tight she clenched her hands into a fist. Her palms had turned white and the veins were visible on her fair skin.


    "F*CK!" the female yelled angrily on the screen of her device. It had turned gray and all her skills were no longer active.


    ''I really died?'' she mentally asked with full of doubt. Her face had also turned red. She was just sprinting forward. She never expected that an assassin would ambush her character!


    She suddenly realized why she was targeted by the Chronos assassin. She understood it well.


    It was still clear in her memory of how she told Sofia that her squad would be eliminated first. It was purely revenge! The Chronos wanted to humiliate her! To let her eat the foul words that she was spouting against their team!


    The female shook her head and frowned. There was a trace of regret that flashed in her eyes but it was too quick for her member to notice.


    "Continue the game," she uttered while watching her members searching the grass and looking for the assassin.


    ~


    "Well done, Claire!" Joey mumbled while he was ready to assist Stephen in the middle lane. He would glance at the top lane and the bottom lane from time to time to see the HP of his teammates. Sometimes, he would also check Clark''s mage even though he was just their base.


    "Very good!" Clark also muttered. His character was just within the safest position, so, there was no pressure on his play. Sofia''s instruction was for him to cast his skills if the enemy would come within his range. Since the enemy has not yet arrived on their tower''s range, his fingers were also not moving.


    "Good, good!" Stephen also nodded his head several times.


    Claire smiled and move forward. Her team didn''t notice the quick outburst of disappointment she felt. And there was no need to dwell on her six seconds delay. It was just between them and Sofia.


    ~


    "How?!" the squad leader of HyperCarry squad mumbled his confusion and quickly sent a signal to his team to pull them out from their reverie.


    ATTACK!!! LAUNCH ATTACK!!!


    The HyperCarry squad was positioned near the top lane of the Chronos Squad. With his signal, the members immediately moved their characters faster. Tank, marksman, mage, fighter, and assassin. This was the lineup of their squad. The five of them arrived first on the top lane of the Chronos squad territory.


    They were careful not to step on the tower''s range to avoid being hit by the tower''s defensive mechanism against invaders. None of them bothered to hide on the grass. Their characters directly stood in front of the tower. A clear display of arrogance and confidence!


    Since there was only one opponent against the five of them, they were not worried about getting attacked.


    Some members were eager to move their character and enter the tower''s range. There was only Sofia''s character in front of it. They were certain that they could eliminate it with the proper skillset and combo.


    Could a single tank''s HP be able to survive if the five of them attacked together? The answer should be no. Their line-up could deliver enough damage to eliminate one tank. But for some unknown reason, they were hesitant to dive inside the top lane tower.


    Perhaps, a gaming instinct or something else. They felt that something was amiss. But they could not identify why. All creeps were easily cleared. But without their leader''s signal, none of them had the guts to move forward.


    Fingers were tightly pressed on their phone screen while waiting for the signal of their leader to attack. Most of them were making a circular motion.


    ''Should we dive in the tower?''


    ''Why is our tank not giving a signal?''


    Sofia on the other hand was watching the five characters not far away from her tank. Both of her thumbs were also waiting to cast her skills. CEO UNRIVALED was calmly standing in front of the tower. Just like Clark''s mage, she was not also showing any movement. Her character was just idling.


    Tank characters were customarily looked like bulky warriors carrying their shields and armors. But for Sofia''s character, CEO UNRIVALED, such appearance looked like a king or an emperor overseeing its territory. Her tank looked imposing. Even though it was not moving, there was still an air of authority and strength in its pose.


    ATTACK!!!


    The squad leader of HyperCarry finally came up with a decision. Upon seeing his signal, their fingers quickly flicked and pressed the screen of their devices.


    Their mage cast a speck of magic dust that blinded CEO UNRIVALED for a quick minuscule of a second. The marksman followed to shoot three successive bullets. This two combos managed to lessen the tank''s HP a bit. But, Sofia was not worried. She just moved her CEO UNRIVALED side by side to dodge the attacks.


    The HyperCarry fighter and tank immediately entered the tower''s range to assault CEO UNRIVALED. Unfortunately, before they could cast their skills, the two characters were dragged farther inside the tower as CEO UNRIVALED used not one, but two hooks to pull them towards her character!


    With this action, the opposing fighter and tank were under the after-effect of the hooks. They were stunned and unable to move.


    The HP of the two characters quickly plummeted in half!


    "Why is this tank have so much damage?!" every member in the HyperCarry Squad asked simultaneously. Their voice trembled in disbelief.


    The three members quickly went to a different panel and checked the cause of the abnormality. A habit and mannerism that most players acquired with their experience in playing the game. It was just a simple tap of the inventory button to show the panel of the items.


    Tanks should not have so much effect in terms of damage unless it was using an item that could boost its attack rate. This made the members of HyperCarry curious as to what kind of item CEO UNRIVALED was utilizing. However, they have forgotten that this was not a casual match. This was a tournament. And any delays, despite how short it was, even a mini second, would have an impact on their performance...


    With these three members checking the panel where the inventory of items was displayed, their tank and fighter were also struck by the defensive mechanism of the Chronos tower.


    Towers have an insane amount of damage. CEO UNRIVALED does not even need to cast another skill. With the help of the tower''s attacks, the two characters were instantly eliminated.


    "IDIOT!!! WHY ARE YOU NOT ATTACKING!!!" the HyperCarry squad leader yelled in anger. He was so disappointed by the lack of coordination from his team. If only their mage and marksman proceed to cast their skills, they would be able to eliminate the tank. On top of that, their assassin was just standing a few inches away from the tower! This sight made him go mad!


    The leader felt like he just dived on the tower only to get his character into a suicide! The fighter user also slumped on his seat. He just sighed loudly and glared at his companions.


    ''It would have been fine if it was an exchange death or a trade kill. If my character died and that CEO UNRIVALED was also eliminated, then at least, there was a meaning of our action.'' the fighter complained in his mind. He was a silent guy however he could not help but criticize his character''s death.


    A trade of kills or deaths normally happened during the clash. Sometimes, it would be the tank or support who would sacrifice its life to save the core. Depending on the strategy of the team. But this trade must be worth it.


    Unfortunately, in their situation, CEO UNRIVALED was still standing in front of the tower. Joey''s character, Lethal Prey, was also casting a heal on her character to restore its HP in full!


    Their characters had died in vain! They did not achieve anything at all!


    As for the HyperCarry squad leader, he didn''t know that his other members were caught up by checking the items of Sofia''s character. And when the members realized their mistake, it was already too late! Too late to save their tank and fighter. In fact, it was also too late for the remaining three to retreat as well!


    Double Kill!


    The audience was just about to recover from their shock from Claire''s performance when another notification sounded on the speaker. It was a notification of two successive kills!


    The operator inside the computer room gasped and rubbed his chest as if he was having a heart attack.


    At that moment, the large screen in front of the crowd was not focused on the top lane. It was focused on Claire''s assassin, Almighty Killer on their bottom lane.


    Most of the audience also followed her character''s movements after her first blood stunt. So, nobody had really paid much attention to Sofia''s lane. Some even thought that it was the two characters in the middle lane that were killed!


    But soon, they were struck by another shocking performance!


    The perspective of the viewers quickly moved towards the position of CEO UNRIVALED. And before anyone could process what was happening in the Chronos squad''s top lane, another notification sounded. A notification that made even the other participants of the tournament stood from their seats.


    Triple Kill!


    Quadra Kill!


    Penta Kill!


    It was not just two continuous kills. CEO UNRIVALED was still on her onslaught. It was actually five kills!


    CEO UNRIVALED eliminated the entire squad!

 Chapter 24 - Outnumbered But Outplayed

    Goosebumps!


    The entire gymnasium was filled with goosebumps after listening to the consecutive notifications. Everyone subconsciously held their breath.


    "Did that tank killed all the HyperCarry members?"


    "Let''s see, let''s see... shhh"


    All eyes were glued on the large screen as the scene swiftly unfolded in their eyes. The crowd did not need to chant for a replay anymore.


    The screen quickly flashed into the last seconds when the tank of the HyperCarry squad entered the tower of the Chronos Squad.


    "AH! It was a suicide! What does this HyperCarry tank thinking?!" one of the audience angrily shouted after watching the replay.


    The boy next to him offered his unsolicited answer, "They have miscalculated?"


    The other companion also made a different comment, "They were too impatient. They could have made a bait! TSK! They should have waited so that CEO UNRIVALED would get out on the tower before they attacked!"


    The audience sighed and few lines creased on his forehead, "They were acting like noobs! I once idolized them but now, ahhh... this gameplay is so reckless!"


    When the replay was finished, other audiences quickly criticized the HyperCarry squad. All CEO UNRIVALLED did was hinder their movements by pulling them towards her position. The moment the HyperCarry tank and fighter were stunned by the after-effect of her skill, they were good as done! It was the tower that gave huge damage which caused their characters to die.


    "OHOHOHO, so it was to tower''s attacks that caused the entire HyperCarry squad to fall! Could this be beginner''s luck? The Chronos squad was surely on fire!" the commentator sounded.


    The countdown of this match was just about to reach 3 minutes. Yet, a huge deficit of gold and EXP promptly appeared on the upper portion of the screen. It is to say that just by watching the HyperCarry squad''s action, they have fed the Chronos squad abundantly! Giving a penta kill was too generous for them!


    The three members ducked their heads on the desk. Tears flowed constantly and dropped one by one on the floor, leaving some wet dent marks on the process. They had looked forward to winning the tournament. Unfortunately, the only chance they got was to play on the elimination round!


    The squad leader of HyperCarry could not also contain his anger and disappointment. He pushed his device on the table and quickly walked out of the lounge.


    "HyperCarry is instantly eliminated! Now, let''s see how the Chronos will fight back against the other six squads... oh... here we go, the Hidden Wind Squad and Beast Squad is trapping the Chronos assassin, Almighty Killer, back to the bottom lane. Two squads versus one assassin!" the other commentator continued to announce in the background.


    On the large screen, the distance of the two squads was already near. Some of their members were clearing the creeps. After the small soldiers were killed, they did not waste time and aggressively cast series of skills.


    Claire''s assassin retreated a few steps. As her character moved backward, the enemies were also moving forward.


    They have rallied on her lane. When they tried to attack to tower, ranging water flooded in the ground! It was Clark''s character, Amateur Mage who cast his skills. The element of water immediately knocked back the group.


    "Ohh, the Chronos mage is not AFK at all!!! It had summoned water to push away the two squads from their tower. The Hidden Wind and Beast Squad are currently healing..." the commentator declared while his eyes were everywhere on the map. Seeing the movement of Clark''s character, he finally understood the formation of the Chronos squad.


    Despite Clark''s assistance, Claire did not dare attack the 10 players around her lane. Close combat against these many enemies would never be an ideal move for her. Almighty Killer would never survive!


    Instead, she slightly pressed the upper command on her device for a signal to ask for a backup. The signal was just made once. Then, her assassin then moved towards the middle lane.


    Stephen did not also need to be told twice. It was on their plan. One notification call for backup is for the marksman. Two notification calls for backup are for the tank. This signal was easily understood which lane should switch. As for the support and mage, they were conveniently placed in one position.


    Stephen''s character, Dangerous Predator swiftly moved to the bottom lane. He didn''t need to come near the enemy. Since marksman has long-range skills, all he need to do was to aim his projectile and cast them.


    The two squads who were busy healing not far from the Chronos tower were struck by Stephen''s attack. Their heal automatically canceled.


    "AHH!!"


    "SHH*T!!!"


    The players of these squads groaned in frustration. Almighty Killer could only fight in close range. They were confident that Claire would not attack them, hence, they did not bother to hide while they were healing. Unfortunately, they failed to predict that the marksman of the Chronos squad would arrive in perfect timing to cancel their heal!


    Retreat!


    Since the marksman appeared, the two squads decided to hide first. Just as all their characters were about to move, another force from behind knocked them forward!


    On the screen of their device, CEO UNRIVALED was directly pushing their characters towards the direction of Dangerous Predator!


    They did not notice that CEO UNRIVALED had arrived behind them. They only saw the tank after their characters were pushed forward!


    Fight back!


    They were left with no choice but use the remaining skills they have. The fighters of the two squads quickly dashed forward to attack CEO UNRIVALED! Their weapons - axe and lance were glinting with a red aura, ready to strike on their opponent.


    But how could Stephen miss the chance that Sofia opened for him? Dangerous Predator quickly launched a perfect combo of his skill!


    CEO UNRIVALED did not also stand in the ceremony. Sofia quickly moved her thumb to create a shield. Then, her tank punched the entire ground to create an earthquake.


    The enemies turned into chaos. Some wanted to retreat while others have already moved to attack CEO UNRIVALED. But before any of them could inflict damage, Stephen''s attack already arrived. With the perfect combo of marksman and tank, another successive notification of kills followed.


    UNSTOPPABLE! - CEO UNRIVALED


    DOUBLE KILL! -Dangerous Predator


    DOUBLE KILL! - CEO UNRIVALED


    TRIPPLE KILL! -Dangerous Predator


    QUADRA KILL! -Dangerous Predator


    BLOOD BATH!


    The Hidden Wind and Beast Squad certainly got the upper hand in number as they attacked the bottom lane, but the lack of direction on their alliance pushed them to a complete wiped out!


    The Chronos squad may have been outnumbered, but it did not stop them as they have completely outplayed the two squads!

 Chapter 25 - Crossing The Bridge Realizations

    "These squad is a monster! They made it looked so easy to kill two opposing squads! Five minutes! It only took five minutes for them to eliminate the HyperCarry squad, Hidden Wind, and Beast Squad! This is down to 1vs4!" the commentators clapped their hands after witnessing the coordination of three members. The crowd control skills from Clark''s mage and Sofia''s tank as well as the damage from Stephen''s marksman. They were perfectly executed with accurate timing.


    "It''s the lack of focus! The two squads did not check the map to see if there is an enemy behind! Because they are confident that the enemy is only in the front. But that is their mistake. And the user of CEO UNRIVALED capitalized on their mindset to outplay them." WINS told his friend.


    Perhaps it was the illusion of these two squads. They just completely assumed that Sofia''s tank would stay in her position in the top lane. They did not know that on Sofia''s screen, all her attention was on the map. Her fingers would flicker constantly to press the area of the middle lane and bottom lane. The Chronos squad did not plan for her to leave on the top lane. But plans sometimes do not apply when the opening was already offered willingly. All they had to do was to grab the opportunity and destroy their enemies!


    "AH! We were too careless!" the squad leader of the Hidden Wind took a deep breath and shook his head several times.


    "I didn''t realize that the CEO UNRIVALED would come behind us. What a wicked player!" the fighter user spoke bitterly. He even stressed out that Sofia was wicked to have ambushed them behind.


    "I''m just going out to smoke real quick." the squad leader said and quietly walked towards the smoking area.


    "Don''t over smoke. Smoking kills!" he heard one of his members called. He could also hear the criticisms from the audience but he brushed them off easily.


    There was already another man smoking when he arrived at the place. He noticed three empty cigarette buts were placed on the ashtray.


    "Yo!" the man greeted casually.


    "We were eliminated." the Hidden Wind squad leader told the other person. He carefully took out his own box of cigarettes and lighter from the inner pocket of his jacket.


    "AH." the other man mumbled a response before he sniffed on the tiny stick in between his middle and index finger. He was the squad leader of the HyperCarry. There was no need for the two of them to speak how much disappointment they felt. Dissatisfied with their gameplays. Just their silence was enough to convey their feelings.


    "It''s a game. One will win. The other will lose. But still, losing against the one squad that we planned to eliminate first makes the scorching pain burned deeply! It stings!" the Hyper Carry squad leader stated after he blew the smoke out of his mouth. The air around them instantly turned foggy for a minute before the smoke completely dissipated.


    "We have underestimated them." the Hidden Wind squad leader asserted.


    Whether they were reckless or unfocused. It''s not really the reason why they were eliminated. The root of their actions was because they underestimated their opponent!


    The Hidden Wind squad leader took only a single sniff of his cigarette before he crushed it on the ashtray.


    "I rarely smoke. Hehe, I''m gonna watch the match again," he said and quickly went back to his teammates.


    The HyperCarry squad leader stared at the retreating figure of the man paving his way towards the entrance door.


    [The Chronos Squad] Kills: 16, Exp: 32.7K, Gold: 29.1K


    [Elite Players Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 12.3K, Gold: 10.7K


    [Legendary Gamers Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 8.9K, Gold: 5.9K


    [Noob Amateurs Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 11.9K, Gold: 9.8K


    [Pilot Gaming Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 13.1K Gold: 11.5K


    There were five remaining squads on the 40 - Player map. With the number of kills, the Chronos squad took an insane lead of their stats.


    Although they have the advantage in gold and EXP, the Chronos squad returned to their position. They did not leave their lanes as tower stealing could also be possible in their situation. Their characters were like lords standing on the lane, just waiting for their prey to come on them.


    The 4 remaining squads wanted to cry but could not even produce a single tear. Not only their morale became extremely low, but some of them also does not want to continue playing the match!


    Farm!


    On the side of the Pilot Gaming squad, they quickly secured their jungle. After realizing that three of their fake ally squads were completely annihilated and the gap of their character stats was too wide. The only remedy they could do is the EXP from the NPC monsters. They decided to the jungle!


    The Elite Players squad leader also noticed the movements of the Pilot Gaming squad and reflected something. It was time to cross the bridge before it completely falls down!


    If they continued on their fake alliance, there was a great chance for his squad to not gain a score at all!


    The Noob Amateurs squad reflected the same. The two squads quickly looked for their targets. They scanned the map and observed the location of the other players.


    The Legendary Gamers squad was standing openly on the river. Their character looked like they could not decide which way lane they should attack.


    Before they come up with a decision, the players from the Elite Players squad already launched their attacks on them.


    "Traitors!" one of the girls on the lounge yelled after realizing that her character was ambushed and killed by the marksman user of the Elite Players squad. She glared towards the area where the players of the squad sat.


    "They have abandoned our alliance. Quick hide!" another girl slumped her shoulder and leaned on her seat. She gently placed her phone implying that her character was also eliminated.


    The two remaining members quickly ran away. But soon after, they also arrived in the jungle where the Pilot Gaming squad members were farming. In a blink of an eye, the Pilot Gaming squad mage and fighter delivered series of skills and eliminated the two characters right away.


    "We died!" they mumbled and sighed together.


    [The Chronos Squad] Kills: 16, Exp: 32.7K, Gold: 29.1K


    [Elite Players Squad] Kills: 2, Exp: 20.3K, Gold: 19.7K


    [Noob Amateurs Squad] Kills: 0, Exp: 16.9K, Gold: 16.1K


    [Pilot Gaming Squad] Kills: 2, Exp: 21.1K Gold: 20.5K


    On the large screen, the character stats were zoomed in by the operator. The commentators made a series of announcements before the screen displayed the map again.

 Chapter 26 - The Bait

    "OHO?! The Elite Players squad and Pilot Gaming squad had attacked the Legendary Gamers! Two kills gained for both squad, completely eliminating the all girls team. They are now targeting with one another!" the commentator quickly emphasized.


    But such a scene was not so impressive in the eyes of the audience. It was because it''s just how the game should work. They should not ally with other opponents to attack one squad!


    In their eyes, it was just an average kills comparing to the earlier minutes of the Chronos squad performance.


    Before the third-round match started, things were so simple. These 7 squads'' goal was only to remove the Chronos squad and then, they can attack each other.


    However, none of their plans had put them in their best interest. Some had been eliminated directly while those who managed to survive had started to doubt their capability to win.


    As the pseudo alliances being broken, everyone walked on the map with extra vigilance. The real match was about to start! They can only rely on their team. They could be attacked by the other squads. None of them dare to split to avoid getting ambushed.


    Rotations inside the jungle were swiftly done by the three squads and they slowly managed to narrow down their gap in stats against the Chronos.


    "Alright! The eastern side of the jungle is occupied by the Elite Gaming squad. They have cleared all the NPC monsters and is going to cross the river." the commentator continued to describe the scene.


    "The real game begins!" one of the FAB_Gamers squad members muttered as he adjusted his body into a more comfortable position.


    "Boss WINS, do you think the Chronos squad will leave their towers? They are still not moving." another member asked his squad leader.


    WINS attention was still on the large screen. He maintained his eyes in front and did not bother to glance at his companion. "They play smart. Other pro players play by the rules and strategy. This Chronos squad plays depending on their opportunity. They are quick and flexible. This kind of gameplay is hard to predict."


    "During our practice match, I have seen their potential also. It seemed like they have developed well." the member stated. However, WINS formed his lips into a line and shook his head.


    "That''s not it. For your practice match against them, they were not playing. Or rather, the tank, CEO UNRIVALED, was not playing. She was testing as to what extent her members could do," WINS mumbled.


    "AH!!! Then, it explains why they did not push to get the victory at that time? Hmmm," one member tilted his head and was in deep thought. He was trying to remember the gameplay of their practice match before.


    Although some audience were still talking about the great performance of the Chronos squad, the majority of the crowd had gone quiet as they watched the large screen on the stage. They have finally recovered from their spontaneous shock and overwhelming excitement. The air around the bleachers gradually turned to normal.


    On the player''s lounge, the squad leader of the Noob Amateurs team was slightly felt pressured seeing that his squad had the lowest stats among the other survivors. They have not gained kills yet.


    He quickly signaled his team to gather in an area. They just stood on the grass next to an NPC jungle monster.


    The group did not disturb the jungle monster beside them. Based on their action, the audience realized that they were waiting for the other groups to take their bait. Indeed, the undisturbed jungle monster was their bait. They wanted to entice other players to come near them and wait for the right time to attack.


    "AHA! The Noob Amateurs squad may have devised their own strategy. Now, these remaining squads are really fighting against each other! Let''s see... Let''s see... The group was hiding on the grass and I think they are trying to ambush some players. Who would take their bait?" the commentator asked the audience.


    This strategy of planning an ambush should be effective for them. Their lineup did not have an assassin. But their mage was capable of burst damage. The Noob Amateurs'' mage had the ability to manipulate music.


    Unlike Clark''s character that can use three elements: wind, fire, and water; the Noob Amateurs squad''s mage character used sound and symphony. This mage could cast a wide range of domains where enemies would be imprisoned if they caught on her range. The domain would be filled with sounds that looked like rain bubbles in the air. Few drops of sound, when hit by an opponent would be enough to kill.


    Not long after, the Elite Players squad marched towards the undisturbed jungle. None of them think of any possible ambush. They were just happy to see another NPC jungle monster to kill so that they would earn additional EXP and Gold.


    The tank user of the Elite Players squad pressed his passive command on his device forcefully. The tank character followed to threw passive attacks on the monster while the other members were still a few feet away from him.


    On the other side, the player of the Noob Amateurs squad remained on the grass. Their thumbs were also eager to cast a skill. The man who was using the mage had been holding his skill already and was just waiting for all the enemies to step forward for a few more inches near his location. He was ready to release his skill once they entered his range.


    It was exactly what the Noob Amateurs squad planned. The moment the Elite Gamers player entered fully on the range of their mage, a prison domain quickly appeared!


    Ambush!


    The Elite Players squad instantly realized that they were inside the crowd control domain of their enemy. The prison skill won''t hinder their movements but if their characters would be struck by the sounds bubbles moving around the domain, it would be enough to finish their HPs!


    The characters of Noob Amateurs squad quickly dashed forward and launched a barrage of attacks while the Elite Players squad was trying to dodge the sounds moving inside their prison.


    "AHHH F*CK!" a frustrated groaned followed to echo on the player''s lounge.


    With the follow-up attacks from the Noob Amateurs, the Elite Players squad have lost their chance to dodge the damage from the sound bubbles surrounding them.

 Chapter 27 - Venture Out

    "Great timing!"


    "Nice kills!"


    The kills announcement in the system followed to appear on the screen. The Elite Players squad was wiped out under the barrage of attacks from the Noob Amateurs squad. Three more squads continued to survive as another minute passed in the game.


    Inside the computer room, the operator was stirring his coffee and taking a sip from time to time. After the downfall of the Elite Players squad, the operator quickly zoomed in on the stats of all remaining squad.


    [The Chronos Squad] Kills: 16, Exp: 33.7K, Gold: 29.1K


    [Noob Amateurs Squad] Kills: 5, Exp: 27.9K, Gold: 26.1K


    [Pilot Gaming Squad] Kills: 2, Exp: 25.1K Gold: 24.5K


    A quick flash of the stats and the operator caught another interesting movement on his monitor. He quickly clicked his mouse and displayed another team on the screen.


    Cheering and shouting began to sound once more from the side of the audience. The way Noob Amateurs squad finished the Elite Gamer Squad with their perfect ambush timing and teamwork had also satisfied their fans and the majority of the crowd. But this was not the reason why these people had gone wild in their seats.


    "OMG, They have gone out!"


    "YES, go Chronos squad!"


    "WAAHHHH, all of them!!! They have finally moved!"


    While the Noob Amateurs squad was clashing against the Elite Players squad, the large screen suddenly moved its perspective back to the territory of the Chronos squad. In an instant, the audience became excited as if they were all avid fans of Sofia''s team after seeing their group moving out of their position.


    Several rally signals came out from CEO UNRIVALED, calling her team to assemble on their top lane. Clark was the first to move his character, Amateur Mage. From the base, he quickly traveled behind CEO UNRIVALED. The animation of wind, water, and fire following him around like a shadow was also fun to watch. Sometimes, the water would bump the fire, or the fire would bump the wind.


    Those who had managed to calm down for just several minutes were frantically discussing the movements of Sofia''s team once again.


    "HAHAHA the mage finally moved!" a boy clapped in excitement. His father and mother were sitting next to him and were also waiting for the actions of the Chronos squad.


    "Now I can tell that this squad had planned to let the mage stay on the base in the early game but since its 12 minutes, I guess he is safe to go to clash." the father of the boy commented.


    Indeed, if one would glance at the bottom side of the large screen, they would be able to see the items of the Chronos squad. Most of them had already wear one item for defense. Amateur Mage had chosen a shield against physical attacks. Their marksman, the Dangerous Predator, had picked an armor to wear. The item could also provide not only defense but also a 15% cool down of his skills. As for their support, Lethal Prey, he had chosen to use a helmet that could also boost his MP regeneration.


    CEO UNRIVALED was marching forward like a royal guard walking with all its might. Behind Sofia''s character was the support character of Joey, Lethal Prey. This character was like a maiden that was wearing a casual fitted yellow dress. Everything about her outfit screamed of elegance. The way it walked had a style that of a priestess.


    "AHH, her speed is too fast for a tank?" one girl emphasized to her companion but her voice was swallowed by the loud shouts of the crowd.


    "I can''t hear you!" her companion screamed as if they were not talking face to face. But it was necessary.


    "Nevermind!" the girl wave her hand and yelled back at her companion. They have to be loud even if they were just a few steps away. Everyone in the bleachers was so loud. With the noise of their fellow audience, proper communication would be impossible to do!


    "AHHHH, they will clash! They will clash!"


    "WAHHH!!! Noob Amateurs, hide! Damn! These players are healing in an open area!!!" a fan scolded.


    After the Noob Amateurs squad eliminated the Elite Players Squad, they quickly tried to regenerate their HP.


    "AHH, did the players of Noob Amateurs squad grow two heads? They only got 5 kills but why are they acting so confident?! At this rate, the Chronos squad players may have seen them already!" the other fan of Noob Amateurs squad ranted in frustration. He just wanted his favorite team to act consciously. Unfortunately, this display of overconfidence had gained a scowl from him.


    "This is their mistake! They are too overconfident!" another fan sneered. These two were wearing T-shirts with the logo of the Noob Amateurs squad which proved their fandom support. But instead of cheering for the squad, they had been picking the player''s mistakes!


    On the large screen, the Chronos squad had left their territory and was moving towards the Noob Amateurs squad''s direction. At this point, it was impossible for them to avoid clashing.


    Since there were only two more squads, Sofia had decided to venture out of their territory to hunt her enemies. This kind of move was not necessary for her squad since they are still in the lead. But she did not forget that the tournament was also a business. And the client was the many audiences watching them play.


    Since it is business, they should not remain idle. They needed to move and show interesting gameplays to their client. Otherwise, the audience watching their match would lose interest!


    Some organizers watching their match smiled in satisfaction after seeing the movements they made. These organizers of the tournament were also troubled and felt that the Chronos squad may just stick on their territory. If it would be the case, they would not bring the full potential of their match. Fortunately, they have seen the progress.


    "The Chronos squad is good!" an organizer could not help but voiced out her personal opinion.


    "How can you say that? They are just newbies! Although their performance is good this is just the elimination round!" the other organizer reminded her.


    Indeed, the match had just begun. Whether the Chronos squad could keep up their ability to fight against other squads, they were not yet certain. After all, nothing was set in a stone.

 Chapter 28 - Ignored Instincts

    When players gained enough experience in the game, they could actually feel as if their character would be in danger. Somehow, they developed such a mysterious connection between their character inside the game.


    They could predict certain attacks and enemy movements. There were seldom moments when a lane went too quiet, some players would also retreat even though they had not yet detected their enemies. They could already tell that there was an incoming attacker and their character was at risk.


    However, when experiencing overwhelming happiness, such feelings would sometimes be overlooked.


    On the side of the Noob Amateurs squad, the players were still ecstatic about their kills. Their instinct had told them that something was off. But the nagging feeling of danger was completely ignored.


    Suddenly, the ground beneath where their characters stood cracked open! It gave them a slight effect of being stunned. But the effect was too quick and they recovered easily.


    All players quickly tensed up! As they glanced at their skills, it was mostly on cool down! They instantly retreated in the other direction where the ground was unshaken. But, none of them had calculated their movements. At that moment, all they want to do was find an escape route while their skills were not yet available.


    The Noob Amateur fighter moved and produced several vertical slashes from his lance to fend off any opponent. As each slash traveled in the air, an arrow of a marksman also appeared. One arrow after another, it did not stop until the sky was raining with such an attack.


    "There''s an archer on the grass. Run! Run! Run!" the fighter mumbled.


    Then, he hastily dodged the arrows and whirled his weapon. Their squad just needed a few more seconds for them to be able to use their skills. This fighter does not aim to fight. He just wanted to buy time for his allies!


    However, in the direction where his allies went to escape, a huge amount of water suddenly flooded out of now where!


    "I can''t block this mage skill!" the tank of Noob Amateur lamented. They were faced with a huge flood ranging towards their direction. They quickly changed direction and sprinted sideward. But, a blazing flame also engulfed the area where they planned to move!


    There was nowhere to run!


    Seeing these several different attacks, the fighter realized that they were surrounded! All their escape route was cut off!


    On a distance not far from them, he saw a figure that made his heartbeat quickened.


    "CEO UNRIVALED!" he mumbled on his seat as he took a big gulped.


    A hook suddenly appeared and he noticed his character on his device being dragged rapidly towards the position of the opponent. He was caught!


    "OH NOO!!!" he shifted his sitting position in his seat as he realized that he was pulled forward! All his skills had turned gray and he was immobilized!


    His members quickly ran towards him but he decisively signaled them to retreat.


    "Retreat! Retreat! Don''t save me! It''s no use! Just go and escape!" the fighter user quickly made a choice to sacrifice his character for his ally to escape.


    The animation of water flooding on the ground was already finished. The path became clear once more. Thus, the other members of the Noob Amateurs squad could proceed on their escape.


    The members reluctantly turned around and ran away in haste. The fighter user could only see a single arrow struck on his character. He didn''t see which position the marksman was standing.


    His character''s HP still survived to one-fourth of the full life he got. He smiled as he saw the ray of hope.


    His slender fingers then pressed his screen continuously. Some sweat had appeared on his forehead and he casually raised his arms to wipe it off. As long as his character had an HP, there was still a chance! His character leaped and produced a different style of slashed from the spear against his opponent.


    The passive attacks managed to get damage to CEO UNRIVALED. Vertical slashes and horizontal slashes somehow lessen the HP of the tank.


    But it was just too little. And every time the spear struck on the armor of Sofia''s character, the HP would also go back!


    Instead of attacking, it would now seem like his character was playing a tickle game towards CEO UNRIVALED.


    "It''s useless! This is a trio push of marksman, tank, and support! I cannot survive!" the fighter user shook his head and glanced at the players on the Chronos Squad. He could only see their backs. Three males and two females team. But based on how stiff their sitting position was, he could tell that these players were too focus. There was an air of undisturbed concentration around them. As if they were all immersed inside the game.


    The two sides were busy. And the audience had turned almost into madness. The large screen would switch from one perspective to another. Giving them a more intense feeling.


    While the Chronos squad and Noob Amateurs were sparring near the river, another perspective showed!


    The Pilot Gaming squad! The crowd had almost forgotten this squad but this group was still inside the map! And their characters had just entered the territory of the Noob Amateurs squad.


    "Your final tower of defense in mid lane is under attack!"


    This notification was heard by every member of the Noob Amateurs squad. Not only they were in a troublesome situation against the Chronos squad. Their tower was also placed open putting them in a more critical position. No matter what they would do, only the path of defeat can be seen as the end result!


    "Your final tower of defense is destroyed!"


    Another notification followed. The Noob Amateurs didn''t want to surrender. Those who got the chance to teleport had started teleporting.


    On the bleachers of the gymnasium, some of their fans admired their perseverance. None of the players showed any clue of retreating. They were willing to fight their way no matter how impossible to succeed in their situation!

 Chapter 29 - Unexpectedly

    Watching the development of the match, the commentators sat properly and focused on the situation of the Noob Amateur squad. They started giving their opinions and analysis. They could tell that this match would definitely be one of the highlights of the tournament. Even though it was just an elimination round, the players had displayed unexpected progress.


    "Now, look at this! The situation had grown more conflicting for the Noob Amateur squad! The Pilot Gaming squad is almost invading their base! They better make a quick decision!" one commentator screamed in the microphone with a tone full of excitement.


    Quick decision-making would be hard for a team-play game. But this is one skill that every gamer needs inside a PVP match. Teamwork and coordination. They have to calculate the pros and cons of their individual actions as it would determine their performance of their team.


    For the third round, the Chronos had displayed this ability. And the audience had so far seen only fighting and clashing. No squad had performed base stealing yet. So, when the Pilot Gaming Squad went towards the Noob Amateurs territory, they felt enthusiastic to see a squad steal the base of an opponent.


    "The Noob Amateurs squad has to come up with a quick choice as to which squad they are going to face! This is my analysis only... hmmm, saving their base is important!" the commentator paused and drank the last bit of coffee in his mug before he continues, "The Pilot Gaming squad is about to destroy the very ticket of Noob Amateurs squad to get the victory, so, this must be prioritized. But, if they fight against the Chronos squad, as long as they manage to eliminate the Chronos members, it would instantly boost their dignity also! Both choices have their benefits! To save the base? Or eliminate the leading squad of the match?" the voice of the commentator sounded once more. He had poured a large amount of dedication to come up with what he stated.


    Base on this interpretation, the audience quickly understood the dilemma of the Noob Amateurs squad. They could only nod their heads and sympathize with the members of the group.


    To some gamers, winning is not everything. Some would always think of their performance and reputation in the match. These were the conscious type of gamers. They would think more of dignified performance and honorable defeat rather than undignified performance and shameless victory.


    In this case, if the Noob Amateurs squad would choose great performance and their reputation, then, they would just clash against the Chronos squad. They won''t be branded as cowards who run away from their enemies. To put it simply, their squad won''t be a laughingstock and subject of ridicule in the gaming community of District 7.


    But if they would prioritize winning over their match performance and reputation, then, they would need to ignore the Chronos team and face the Pilot Gaming squad instead. This way, they can save their base and continue to push for victory.


    "Oh! Surely a complicated situation! If they gave up their defense towards their base and ignore the Pilot Gaming squad, they could eliminate the Chronos squad! Which by the way, has 16 kills in this match! The skills of their characters had finally finished the cooldown which means they could parry with the Chronos team." the other commentator added after his eyes had glanced on the skills availability of the characters.


    "If the Noob Amateurs squad will choose to clash with the Chronos squad and take them out of this match, this is a real ''GG'' given that this Chronos squad is now on the lead! But their base would be intruded on by the Pilot Gaming squad. They will be defeated with a beautiful performance." the commentator continued.


    "Will they be able to eliminate the squad of Chronos though? What do you think, partner?" a question was thrown towards another commentator.


    "Maybe they could! They have proved to us that they are capable of eliminating an entire squad. So, with similar tactics, it might be possible! However, their fighter was already slain," the commentator answered loudly emphasizing the loss of the fighter in the Noob Amatuers squad.


    While the commentators continued to throw questions to one another to express their point of view for the entire match, the squad that was subject to their discussion was thrown into internal turmoil. They may have eliminated the Elite Gamer squad but they have no clear plan as to what to do next.


    Unfortunately, the game is not just about fighting. There was one conventional path to directly eliminate an opposing squad. And it was by destroying their base. This path was exactly taken by the Pilot Gaming Squad!


    Fight till defeat! All members of the Noob Amateurs squad shared the same feeling.


    "Split Up!"


    The group decided to divide their forces. Their tank, and mage faced the pursuit of Chronos squad while the marksman and support retreated to return on their base.


    As the tank and mage character turned around the two players discovered nothing but an empty map behind them! These two characters quickly checked the grass to see if the members of the Chronos squad were just waiting for an ambush. Yet, there was none!


    ''Where are they?''


    ''For a second, I know they are just following our trail!''


    ''How can they vanish? Can all their characters use stealth?''


    The two players of the Noob Amateurs squad sitting on the lounge were left puzzled by the disappearance of their enemy. With their confusion, it even dragged and delayed their time more! If only they decided to teleport on their base after noticing that the Chronos team was gone, then, they could have helped their teammates defending against the Pilot Gaming squad...


    But, where is the Chronos squad really?


    On the large screen at the center of the gymnasium, the audience could see the movement of the squad. From the minute the Chronos group stopped their chase towards the Noob Amateurs squad because of the retreat signal of CEO UNRIVALED.


    Then, the attack signal followed. But, it was no longer aimed at the players. It was aimed at the Noob Amateurs'' base!


    The Chronos squad left the opponent and also advanced to the territory of the Noob Amateurs squad!


    As for the support and marksman player of the Noob Amateurs squad, these two started teleporting back to their base. But, it would take few seconds for the animation effect of teleport before their characters would be completely transported to the location. They could only stare at their characters and the beautiful animation effect.


    Meanwhile, the Pilot Gaming squad was eager to destroy their enemy''s base.


    Tower lock!


    The signal to lock and to focus their attack on the base instantly showed on the device of all members of the Pilot Gaming squad. Their thumbs successively pressed the button for their basic attacks on the screen of their mobile phones.


    But the moment their character stepped near the target base, a force cleaved and divided the group!


    They expected to see the Noob Amateurs squad behind them. However, their screen revealed another team. It was the Chronos squad!


    The gymnasium had gone quiet once more, as well as the commentators area. All their eyes were focused on the territory of the Noob Amateurs squad where two other opposing squads are about to clash! They also did not expect the Chronos squad to face the Pilot Gaming squad instead!


    A minute passed and two members of the Noob Amateurs squad were able to teleport back on their base.


    "Hurry, move, hurry!" the marksman user chanted as if his character inside the mobile screen could hear his plea.


    The two quickly rushed forward to face the Pilot Gaming squad. But before they could execute their skills to launch an attack they noticed the Chronos squad characters were also standing not far from the Pilot Gaming squad.


    "Eh? What is happening?"


    "The Chronos squad is helping the Noob Amateurs? Is there an alliance between the two that we didn''t know?"


    Those players who were already eliminated from the match could not help but speculate of the Chronos squad''s action. They even made an accusation of a fake alliance between Noob Amateurs and Chronos squad!

 Chapter 30 - Building Reputation And Value

    "Boss WINS, why did the Chronos advance at the Noob Amateurs'' base? After killing the fighter of that squad, they could have easily eliminated those other players. It looks like they are wasting their chance to gain more kills!" The member of the FAB_Gamers squad on the front row was also baffled by the sudden change of target. He could not help but asked his squad leader beside him.


    WINS was paying almost all his attention to the screen and was anticipating the clash of two opposing squads. Upon hearing the question of his companion, he raised his hands to signal him to wait for a while. His eyes did not leave the large screen, as he was looking for all the data. He kept glancing at the gold and EXP gains of the three remaining squads as well as the items of the players on the map.


    After several seconds, his eyes darted at the player''s lounge. He slowly rubbed his chin as if he was trying to solve a very hard puzzle. Then his eyes cast back to the large screen.


    "It''s true that the chance of killing the two players from the Noob Amateurs squad was wasted. But, the Chronos may have a different goal for wasting this chance. I think they want to add spice on this third-round match," WINS finally answered while he leaned back on his chair. His eyes were now locked on the player''s lounge where the Chronos was sitting. He could somehow understand a tiny bit of reason why Sofia''s team went to the base of the enemy instead.


    "Spice up the match? Boss WINS, I don''t get it! Isn''t it better to get more kills?" his other companion was also confused. He had been in the pro scene for quite a while and he could tell that the Chronos squad had the opportunity of slaying the remaining members of the Noob Amateurs squad.


    "They can get kills on the Pilot Gaming squad too." Wins paused for a second, he tilted his head as if he was in deep thought and continued, "This is a level of mindset. Right now they want to make their match more interesting for the audience. So, the Chronos makes a move to challenge the Pilot Gaming squad." WINS answered as he crossed his legs and adjusted his sitting position to a comfortable one.


    "Making the match more interesting..." his companion absentmindedly trailed.


    "If we compete in a tournament, our goal will always to get the victory and receive the prize of the competition. But I think that this kind of goal is only common. There will always be a winner in a match. The Chronos may have this kind of mindset. Thus, this goal is only one of the many more goals that they to achieve for this match." WINS emphasized.


    "They have other goals? Other than winning, what could it be?" the member gasped and probed further.


    "Their value. Winning a match is important. But having a great value as a gamer is also essential. When the match become unforgettable to the audience, the players'' gameplay would also be immortalized. This means that the Chronos squad is currently building not only their reputation but also their value. This is also understandable since their squad is still new. But along the run, this could be harmful to them. If they can''t keep up the high image that the viewers had expected them, they may just attract bashers rather than fans and supporters." WINS concluded.


    "Ahh, now, I understand. If they start with this kind of high-level performance, they must maintain it. Otherwise, they will also be ridiculed. That''s a lot of pressure for them. I hope they can maintain this kind of gameplay." the man finally understood the situation.


    Because of the sudden silence of the audience area, a group of gamers sitting behind these three figures was able to overhear their conversation. One of them stared at WINS for a long time before he leaned forward and stretched his arm towards the man in front of him.


    "Yo! If this isn''t the respected being, Kurt!" a man lightly tapped the shoulder of WINS and spoke. There was an air of familiarity on his tone and the way he addressed WINS using his real name - Kurt, indicated that they have known each other at a personal level.


    WINS took a quick look at the person and saw a grinning boy behind him. He returned a friendly smile and waved his hand as a greeting.


    "OH!? You and your team is also here, Brian?" WINS recognized the boy right away. The other person was also a squad leader in District 6. They have been an opponent several times but they established a good relationship outside the game.


    "Yes, the Lee Gaming Squad founder is my cousin. He will be playing in the 5th elimination round. This 40-Player map is crazy! I can''t wait to play in the District 6 tournament! By the way, you rarely attend this type of match, I am surprised to see you here!" the boy wondered.


    "It''s a long story. But, my team has a connection with this Chronos squad. So, I came to watch their tournament." WINS casually answered.


    "These beast players have a connection with your FAB_Gamers squad? As expected by the respected being! All your connection is worthy of my respect! Amazing! From early seconds of this group''s assassin performance, I know right away that their squad is above average." the boy said happily. He even acknowledged the Chronos players as beasts!


    "Don''t exaggerate, well, let''s not chitchat right now. This round is quite interesting," WINS laughed lightly and waved his hand again, then, he returned his attention to the screen.


    "Lead, is that the FAB_Gamers squad leader?" one companion of the boy tugged the hem of his shirt and asked him secretly.


    "Yes, that''s Kurt." the boy promptly answered before he also returned to focus on the match.


    On the booth where the Lee Gaming Squad was occupying, Brent, their founder was applauding like crazy. Everyone had gone silent in their booth yet he remained his applause.


    His members smiled sheepishly at the other squads who had given their founder a weird look.


    "Stop clapping so loud! The other squads are looking at us!" Brent''s sister sneered and secretly apprehended him.


    "Hahaha, that is my old friend over there. I don''t care about that other squads! Why can''t I clap my hands like this?!" Brent coldly asked and continued clapping his hands. The lady looked grim but she could only shake her head in frustration.

 Chapter 31 - A Major Mistake

    "This third round has been making us all crazy! Oh, damn! The Chronos Squad is rushing forward at the Pilot Gaming squad! Clearly, they are preventing the first tower steal for this match!" the first commentator quickly said. He had almost forgotten to speak his remarks because of the unexpected turn of events. It was just unprecedented that none of them had seen through or predicted the Chronos squad''s decision!


    "Could it be that they are rescuing the Noob Amateurs squad from the hands of the Pilot Gaming squad? What could be the reason? Why are they protecting their opponent?" the other commentator finally expressed his theory and threw a question for the audience to discuss. His voice even pitched higher to emphasize the ''rescuing the Noob Amateurs squad'' and ''protecting their opponent'' part.


    But the expected discussion did not fell into the area of the bleacher''s side in the gymnasium.


    In fact, most of the audience did not think too much of the reason why the Chronos squad changed their target anymore. They were just too eager to see the fight. They did not even pay attention to the commentator''s words! All focus was directed on the screen in front of them and the sound effects of gunshots and clash of weapons turned higher.


    The criticism, on the other hand, had fallen on the area of the participants in the tournament.


    "Bah! This Noob Amateurs squad is betraying us! They have formed an alliance with the Chronos!" the first player that was eliminated in the third round sneered loudly. She had placed both of her hands on her waists and was glaring at the players of the Noob Amateurs squad.


    This ice-cold glare from her made the subject players on the lounge felt uncomfortable. They could sense a sinister aura directed towards them, yet, they can''t remove their attention on their device. They just shifted their sitting positions to brush off the uneasiness.


    Although the spotlight was no longer on the Noob Amateurs squad, they were secretly thankful for the sudden appearance of the Chronos squad.


    To say, if the Chronos squad did not appear, the Pilot Gaming squad would have successfully employed their tower lock signal and destroy the base! Then, the Noob Amateurs Squad would be done!


    "Let''s not get into that conclusion. We have no proof." the squad leader of Elite Players squad spoke softly to reprimand the girl. His lips formed a line as he glanced in the direction of the Chronos squad. He could not help but also felt suspicious of their action. But he had chosen to not jump to conclusions.


    "What jumping into conclusion? Isn''t this action of the Chronos squad not enough proof? They are protecting the base of the Noob Amateurs Squad. Why would they do that?" the girl turned around and face the squad leader of the Elite Players squad. Her expression indicated that she was ready to throw a bunch of arguments if the man would talk back to her.


    "I''m just saying that even if they betray us, is it really betrayal? Do we have the right to be angry against them? We don''t. So quit your nonsense accusations!" the man coldly eyed the girl. In his mind, even if the alliance was secretly formed behind their back, it was something that they should not get offended. After all, it was a game and if the Noob Gaming squad saw a different means to be victorious, others squad should not blame them.


    The girl suddenly took a big gulp as if she was swallowing all her arguments down to her throat.


    She was taken aback by the harsh reality that the man had pointed out.


    Indeed, even if the Noob Amateurs squad was having their fake alliance with the Chronos squad, this kind of plan had nothing to do with them now because they were already eliminated.


    And if they dare blame the two teams for such, it would potentially backlash as it was them who initially started pseudo alliances in the first place.


    While these players have different opinions, the audience continued to follow the clash of the two squads. The lineup role of this squad was similar to the Chronos squad. They also had a tank, an assassin, a mage, a marksman, and support.


    However, their character''s appearance and ability were very different. Sofia''s character - CEO UNRIVALED, has an air of elegance like a royal king or a knight wearing its shining armor. It has a degree of sophistication and its main ability is to hook and pull the target. Also, it can make the ground shatter and stunned the opponents.


    As for the tank of the Pilot Gaming squad, the character was portrayed by a bulky warrior holding a huge shield. There was a long scar on its face that its entire appearance resembled like a huge gladiator. It''s main advantage was anchored in its huge shield. The tank can use its weapon for both offense and defense.


    When another force cleaved towards the player of the Pilot Gaming squad, the tank was quick to raise its huge shield and blocked all the damage coming from the force. The support user also directed its character to quickly cast a heal on him.


    The support remained behind the tank but their other members quickly moved to different angles to avoid the AoE from Clark''s mage. Almost all players were familiar with the mage character that Clark was using. They were well aware that Amatuer Mage could summon three elements. And if all of them would be get caught on to this skill, they will surely be in danger!


    Zhiinng!


    Another sound of colliding weapons also sounded as Joey''s support character was attacked by the mage of the Pilot Gaming squad. This sound was not from the mage though. It was Claire''s assassin who delivered a couple of tiny shurikens to counterattack in an attempt to save Joey.


    However, the assassin of the Pilot Gaming squad was also swift to throw its shuriken into the right precision and blocked Claire''s initial attack.


    These several shurikens clashing in mid air with a dramatic movement turned all the audience into a complete daze. That was another satisfying scene to watch that most of the audience absentmindedly opened their mouths in awe and clapped their hands.


    To be able to carry this kind of precision in blocking an attack in mid-air, the Pilot Gaming squad assassin displayed great mastery of his character as well!


    On the other side, CEO UNRIVALED took two steps and suddenly released one hook!


    As the hook traveled in front of the enemy, the tank quickly dodged to avoid being grabbed by the hook. His shield was still in cool down, hence, it was the only way for him to get away from Sofia''s attack.


    However, the action was a major mistake on his part!


    He had forgotten that there was a support that had been hiding behind his back. When his character went to the other side, the support was completely open and vulnerable!


    In just a blink of an eye, CEO UNRIVALED pulled the support of the Pilot Gaming squad.


    The face of the player who was using the support turned sour after his character was launched forward. "What the f*ck! Are you sacrificing me?!" his voice trembled out of anger when he realized the action that his tank had made.

 Chapter 32 - Clash

    "Ah!"


    "WHHOAA!"


    "Rest in Peace Support!"


    All the audience made a gasped of air after watching the metal chain from CEO UNRIVALED latching off and went towards the support of the Pilot Gaming Squad. Some quickly muttered their opinions loudly.


    A 2.5% of HP was quickly acquired by the Pilot Gaming squad''s support character after the hook was connected on its body. Then, the figure of the support was rapidly pulled towards the direction of the Chronos squad in an instant.


    "Ohh myyy, that Pilot Gaming tank is a joke! Why did he let his support being taken away?"


    "Their support would never survive after this hook!"


    "He should have move together with the tank!"


    "That was a wrong move indeed!"


    Anyone could spot this mistake from the tank and support. While the majority kept their opinions to themselves, others have also criticized the two loudly.


    The tension in venue had also increased, both in the player''s lounge and in the bleacher''s area.


    "Sorry, sorry, sorry," the tank user muttered his apology continuously. He was clearly aware of his fault! If he didn''t let his tank step on the side to dodge the hook, their support would never be dragged out of their protection.


    But, he was not entirely to be blamed for his decision to dodge the attack. Such action was just an instinct of him to avoid being caught by CEO UNRIVALED.


    Before the hook would be unleashed, the opponent''s character would produce an animation effect of the hook glowing for a mini second. He detected the glowing effect, so, he was quick to make assessments.


    The tank user was also expecting the support user to move together with his character. However, the two players had not yet reached a degree of coordination that would allow them to have a tacit understanding of the situation.


    "I can''t believe you, bro!" the support user continued to mutter his disbelief while watching his character on the device. He had placed all the blame on the tank user.


    In a blink of an eye, the support halted just in front of Sofia''s team. CEO UNRIVALED did not use any more skills on him. Her goal was only to grab the support.


    It was Dangerous Predator, the marksman of the Chronos squad, who gave a rain of damage from a combination of attacks.


    The support user had no choice but to use his skill and cast a full heal for his character to survive. After his HP drastically plummeted, the character bath into a golden light and quickly regained back its HP.


    This support user had been playing pro in other games. He was completely upset with the tank user. But he still managed to focus on the game.


    On the player''s lounge, the dark aura on his face did not leave. He was mad but it was not the right time for him to be controlled by his emotions. All he could do was to shook his head several times and exhaled his disappointment loudly.


    After casting a heal, his HP quickly rose back to full.


    The apologetic tank user of the Pilot Gaming squad arrived just in time to save him. He threw his shield in the air and aimed for Stephen''s marksman. Dangerous Predator was hit in the shoulder before the shield went back to the opponent''s side. The inflicted damage that he received was 8% of his full HP.


    "Wow, the tank has a greater damage!" an audience exclaimed after he noticed the loss of HP from Stephen''s marksman.


    "Nah, it''s normal for the gladiator type of tank to have large damage. I used this character all the time. Its shield can be an offense and defense. That marksman should retreat or that tank would eat him!" the other audience commented.


    Opposite to what the audience had expected, Stephen did not back down despite this loss of HP. His character moved sideward to find a position where he could aim his attacks to the support.


    "Amazing! This marksman user is not also simple! The Chronos squad had displayed their awareness of this game. Targeting the support of the Pilot Gaming squad from his angle is hard since his target had moved behind his tank. How is he going to get his target?" the commentator spoke once more after seeing how the marksman did not step back.


    "I guess this will be a full clash! No one is gonna back down! Their allies are also coming from both sides!" the other commentator stated.


    Stephen moved his marksman farther. He found his position was not the best position to get his target as the tank had stood mightily to protect his ally.


    Stephen could openly attack the tank however, he needed to aim for the support character.


    There was an opportunity presented for him to deliver damage to the tank, yet, he would never waste his skill on the gladiator. This was because, even if he used his skill to the tank, it would be counterproductive and inefficient as the support would just heal back the tank''s HP.


    On the large screen, Claire''s assassin activated her stealth and swiftly moved behind the opponent''s tank. The two players of the Chronos Squad knew that the main target was to eliminate the support of the Pilot Gaming Squad.


    The Pilot Gaming assassin also did the same and stealthily went to the Chronos squad''s support. But he was not so quick to activate his stealth skill and Sofia caught a glimpse of his shadow behind her. CEO UNRIVALED slightly turned around and punched the ground!


    As the ground cracked open, the assassin of the Pilot Gaming squad was revealed! Clark''s mage instantly summoned fire and wind towards the enemy.


    The assassin quickly made a signal to request a backup from his allies before his character was suspended on air.


    The operator in the computer room had been busy clicking his mouse to zoom in on certain gameplays. The clash of characters happened at the same minute of the game. The fingers on his left hand were also hitting his keyboard at high speed. Despite his multitasking, there was no difficulty that can be seen on his face.


    "Nice, nice!" he mumbled with great joy while he was doing this multiple tasks.

 Chapter 33 - HEAL???

    As the assassin character was suspended in the air, the ally mage user quickly came to his rescue.


    The mage leaped forwards as the player tried to press the skill on his device. But his rescue attempt went for nothing as his character was also caught by the wind attack of Clark''s mage.


    "What?!" he muttered in surprise after seeing his skills were not yet available as his character was on the air.


    "What a unique attack! Fire and Wind!"


    "It is unique! Hahaha..."


    The audience giggled and laughed after witnessing such a scene.


    "Hahaha, this mage has a weird combo! Who would use fire and wind at the same time?" the mage users on the player''s booth also laughed at Clark''s attack.


    They have never seen this type of gameplay before. The usual attack partnered with fire was the water to burn and drowned the enemy. Yet Clark''s mage burned the enemy with fire and instantly extinguished the flame at the same time after casting the wind attack!


    "His enemy mage must have not expected the wind to follow after the fire. It''s really not an ideal combo. Still, the two attacks are effective!" another mage user defended Clark''s action. In his mind, nothing was wrong with Clark''s attacks. No matter how weird the combination of the skills was, as long as the intention was achieved, it would be worth it.


    Unbeknownst to these players, this was not a real combo that Clark had planned at all! Perhaps a wrong anticipated of the enemy or an inaccurate prediction. Nevertheless, it was but a mere coincidence that the enemy mage was caught on his attack.


    Sofia told Clark to use all his available attacks as long as the enemy would be in his range. Since the skill for his water attack was still in cool down, he just conveniently pressed the fire and wind altogether! Clark was just following Sofia''s instructions for him.


    The expression of the players of the Pilot Gaming squad turned grieved after their attempt attack was canceled.


    "Why did you follow me?!" the assassin user of the Pilot Gaming squad frowned and spoke loudly while he saw the mage was also suspended in the air.


    "Damn! I didn''t know there would be a wind attack!" the mage user reasoned.


    While the two characters were floating, CEO UNRIVALED arrived and punch the ground once more. Now, they were completely immobilized!


    Seeing the two allies were at a disadvantage, the tank user of the Pilot Gaming squad quickly moved and dashed forward to rescue them. He was confident that these two allies can be saved after their support returned to their side.


    The mage user and assassin user also heaved a sigh of relief after noticing the movements of their tank and support. Their marksman had also revealed its position and joined them on the clash.


    Series of animations from different attacks quickly followed on the large screen. Every skill for each side was shown and executed. Yet, no characters were slain. Both squads were able to contest with their fighting skills.


    On the side of the Pilot Gaming squad, a series of retreat signals was also issued by their support. But none of the other members had paid attention to the retreat notification above the screen of their device. They were too busy with the ongoing clash to notice the urgency of the text displayed above their screen.


    "Damn! Retreat!" the support user gritted his teeth when he realized that his allies were still attacking. He had cast his full heal to himself when he was dragged by CEO UNRIVALED earlier. Hence, the skill was still on cool down. There was no way for him to continue healing! Yet, his members just ignored his signal for them!


    When the Pilot Gaming squad dropped their HP''s in a critical state, they had not received any heal from their support!


    "Heal, heal, heal..." all members mumbled, demanding for their support to cast a heal before their HP would turn to zero.


    "Where is the healer?! HEAL???" the assassin hissed and another line had added to his frown on his forehead.


    Soon after, the screen of his device turned gray as his character died on the clash. One after another, their members were eliminated until their squad was completely wiped out!


    "Why are you not healing!?" the assassin user turned around and faced the support. His tone was full of anger and dismay.


    "Why are you not retreating?!" the support user coldly glared and retorted on his query.


    "We are clashing already! Why would we retreat? If you have healed us, we could have wiped them out!" the marksman also followed.


    "Bah! What heal? Have you not noticed that I have used my full heal when I was caught by the hook earlier?!!" the support quickly argued.


    "Nevermind... there is no use of arguing." the tank user stated and stood from his seat. His shoulder slumped in defeat while he was walling towards their booth.


    "GG!" the marksman user mumbled and followed the tank.


    With the Pilot Gaming squad being eliminated, the competition was down to 5v4. The four surviving players of the Noob Amateurs squad vs the five members of the Chronos Squad.


    The squad status was highlighted on the large screen before it went to the perspective of the Chronos squad.


    [The Chronos Squad] Kills: 22, Exp: 62.9K, Gold: 59.2K


    [Noob Amateurs Squad] Kills: 5, Exp: 56.8K, Gold: 55.8K


    "Ehem, ehem! These turned of events was beyond our imagination!" the commentator cleared his throat and slightly rubbed his chin.


    "The Chronos squad ended the Pilot Gaming squad. There is one opponent squad left, the battle has been decided even before the end of the match! Do you agree with me?" the second commentator stated.


    "Yes!" the audience confirmed. In their eyes, the winner was already decided. The Chronos kills had reached 22 and their overall status was still on the lead. On top of that, they were standing on the base of the Noob Amateurs squad.


    The audience could tell that the winner was declared before the victory appeared on the screen.

 Chapter 34 - Good Game

    Series of cheers ensued as the audience stood from their seats and clapped their hands wildly. Such action was considered a gesture of respect from the crowd. The kind of admiration for the gameplay worthy of a standing ovation. The match was too satisfying that these people did not care if it was just an elimination round.


    On the large screen, the word ''VICTORY!'' was already displayed as the third match ended.


    The Chronos squad successfully destroyed the base of the Noob Amateurs squad and finished the third round with flying colors.


    "GOOD GAME!!!"


    "CHRONOS SQUAD NICE ONE!"


    "NICE! NICE!!!"


    Several of the audience shouted their cheers as if they were converted as fans by the Chronos squad. The entire bleachers were bustling with joy.


    On the side of the commentators, both of them also rose from their seats and clapped their hands enthusiastically. It took them a moment to clear their excitement and focus back on their job.


    "That concludes our third match! Congratulations to the victors of this round! The Chronos squad is really an underdog for this tournament! We cannot underestimate the new squads. This one is proof for us that even the new squads could also perform like a beast!" the commentator announced and sat back on his seat comfortably. His partner was still standing while gazing at the player''s lounge where the Chronos squad was about to walk out.


    "The game is over! It was exceedingly amazing! Now, the players of the fourth match are preparing. I''m sure they are also a bit shock by what they have watched on the Chronos gameplay!" the second commentator finally took a deep breath as he spoke on his microphone.


    Sofia and her team slightly bowed at the audience before they strode towards the third booth.


    "Good Game!" the players of the Noob Amateurs squad extended their greetings. There was nothing but sincerity on their faces even though they were eliminated.


    "You guys are good! We will cheer for you!" one of the members also gave a thumbs up to them and spoke of his support.


    "Good Game!" the Chronos squad players humbly returned the favor in a friendly and professional tone.


    As the team arrived inside their booth, some squad also shook their hands and offered a welcoming smile to them as they exchange their ''good games'' greetings. They were even slightly embarrassed for their initial treatment of the team.


    Good Game. Such a term can be taken as a malicious insult or compliment, depending on the situation. Sometimes, player use this term to vent their anger on their teammates while there are other times that they use it to praise a fellow gamer. At that point, all the players were meant to praise each other in a good way.


    "We really won! I can''t believe it!" Clark mumbled. His face revealed an ecstatic expression as he took a seat on the sofa. Stephen went towards the vending machine and got them a bottle of water to drink.


    "Yeah, but don''t be so happy yet. This is just the elimination round. We haven''t won the tournament. We are still on the first step of winning." Joey playfully rubbed the head of Clark to mess up some of his hair and reminded him of their situation.


    "Yes, hehe... I am just happy!" Clark replied and comb his hair using his fingers. He took his phone and saw a message from his brother congratulating him and his teammates. Without a second thought, he sent a message of thanks.


    "Yey!!! Good job to us guys! Let''s do our best for our next match!" Claire grinned. She casually sat down on the sofa and leaned her back comfortably.


    A warm and easy smile also appeared on Sofia''s lips while looking at her teammates joy. Her soul had experienced too many triumphs in her previous life and the victory the Chronos team that they had achieved in the elimination round brought back a nostalgic feeling in her heart.


    "Well done!" Sofia firmly said and sat beside Claire.


    Meanwhile, on a few miles away from this venue where the district tournament was held, one media personality who was about to prepare for her Valentine''s date received a call from her boss.


    "Jing Jing, have you checked the social media forum today?" the boss asked after the lady answered her phone. His tone was slightly rushed as if he was in a hurry.


    "Boss Wang, I did not check my phone yet. But, I''m sure social media will be full of romantic posts from couples. Today, the celebrities would definitely dominate the ranking. Why do you ask, boss Wang?" Jing Jing responded while staring at her reflection in the vanity mirror.


    "Not romantic posts! The tournament of our district had gone to the top 2 subjects of the talk! The netizens had been talking this for about an half a minute from the initial post! It is circulating and the numbers of people talking were raising rapidly!" boss Wang informed the lady.


    "Ohh... Boss Wang, I know this tournament. It is held in the public gymnasium. You have said that this is the top 2. Why do you sound so surprised with this ranking?" Jing Jing questioned while slowly placing lipstick on her lips. She would be meeting her boyfriend after an hour and they would celebrate their Valentine''s day in the famous park of the district.


    "Aiiyya, this is a big scope! The top 1 is the squad participating in the tournament. People were talking about the dark horse Chronos squad. Go and check what is happening in there before the other press would snatch this opportunity to us!" Boss Wang quickly ordered.


    Jing Jing went silent and grabbed her phone that was placed near her expensive face cream. She instantly opened the forum site and was also shocked by the ranking. Normally, celebrity couples would take the lead of the ranking during this day as they show off their lavish and romantic dates. But right now, it was really about a game!


    "Boss Wang, I will cover this!" Jing Jing said as her eyes lit up. She smiled at her reflection and quickly ended the call.

 Chapter 35 - Jing Jing

    Jing Jing quickly dialed his boyfriend''s number. She brushed her hair neatly and took a few steps towards her drawer. Instead of picking the red dress she bought for the date, her fingers grabbed the company uniform instead.


    She was a career-driven woman in her mid-late twenties. Although she felt bad for canceling their date, it was also important scope for her company. Such opportunity cannot be neglected.


    In just the second ring, the man answered her call...


    "Dear Jing Jing, Happy Valentine''s Day!!! I can''t wait to meet you later!" the man greeted. His enthusiastic voice quickly stirred some guilt from the lady.


    Jing Jing took a deep breath and closed her eyes. The guilt was eating her. She collected her composure and bite her lips. A manner she always practiced when she felt uneasy.


    "Drake, Happy Valentines Day also! Listen, something big has happened and I need to cover it for the press. I hate to cancel our date but I must do this. I hope you will understand." Jing Jing said in a straightforward tone.


    "AHH, what is it that is so important than our date? Is there a celebrity couple going to your place? Of course, I will always understand you, dear! Don''t worry about it. We can reschedule when the two of us are not busy." Drake told her gently on the other side of the phone. He also had the same thought as Jing Jing about a celebrity couple creating a stunt for their publicity.


    "It''s about the District Online Tournament, the netizens had been talking about this on the forum crazily. Boss Wang just called for me to make a coverage of the event." Jing Jing answered reluctantly.


    "The district tournament? Such a small event for it to cause a hype," Drake muttered. To him, it was just a local tournament of online gamers, it should not cause so much hype on social media. The timing could not be right as well since it is Valentine''s Day!


    "AHH! It is also unbelievable. At first, I thought it was not real. But as I checked at the forums, it is really on rank 1 and rank 2. The posts are almost reaching millions of reactions from the public! So, I must get this a coverage." Jing Jing stated calmly.


    "Rank 1 and rank 2? That is indeed rare. Then, I will have to take a look at that event as well. See you in the venue dear." the man spoke gently.


    "Yes, see you, Drake. I will end the call now. Bye! See you later!" the lady rambled her words and hang up the call.


    "Ahh this girl is so heartless!" the man could only shake his head and heaved a sigh after he found out that the phone call was already disconnected by her girlfriend. He also opened his social media account to look at the information that Jing Jing had told him.


    As he scrolled up, he really saw the top1 and top 2 viral posts. The top 1 was about the Chronos squad. There were plenty of photos starting from the first blood of the Chronos assassin. There were also short video clips that were uploaded.


    The second post was about the 40-Player Map of the tournament. Most of the people had expressed their opinions of how it should be open for public instead of using it in the tournaments only.


    One post was full of admiration while the other was an ongoing debate!


    When the man looked at the primary person who made the post that went viral, he was slightly shocked. It was from the official account of the Lee Gaming Squad!


    He knew that this team was one of the respected squad and known for being wealthy in the entire district 7. The man quickly vied the content of the post. There were only a few words of tags on it.


    It says, "#SatisfyingFirstBlood #ChronosSquad".


    There were no pictures or video clips on the initial post. It was plain and somehow confusing to another person especially for non-gamers. However, the number of comments and reactions from the gaming community was extremely high.


    The keyboard warriors can never be underestimated. One person had even commented more than 20 times to express opinions both of the squad and of the game. There were no long posts. Only a few lines of comments, then the person would add a new one!


    "This is indeed big!" the man nodded his head before he signed out his account. A wicked smile slowly appeared on his face as he scrolled down his contact logs.


    After a while, the man contacted another person. "Hey, there is a scope in the public gymnasium. The online tournament is a good article to publish. Get on it." he stated casually.


    Although Jing Jing and Drake are in a relationship for months, the lady was not really paying attention to her boyfriend''s affairs. Drake was also passive and supportive of her decisions.


    Jing Jing found it convenient to have an understanding boyfriend but in reality, the man just plainly did not care about her. He had his own agenda!


    They met up at some press conference and she felt a connection with him. Perhaps the lady simply poured too much trust in the people in her life or she was plainly na?ve.


    There were red flags of their relationship but she never noticed them. She was too caught up with her career that she did not bother to know about the identity of the man she was having a relationship with.


    All she knew and care is that the man was single and that she would not be destroying an existing relationship.


    On the other hand, Drake indeed appeared to be a perfect boyfriend. But he was also a son of another rival press company. He was just using Jing Jing to get on the latest possible event that his company could take a scope since the lady was working on the leading press company of the district.


    "That is perfect, Drake! The crew will be passing in the public gymnasium. You have a great timing! I will call them so that they can make a U-Turn and get coverage of the events there!" the person on the other line responded.


    "Alright. Be quick so that there would be no competitors yet on the site before you arrived." Drake said and hung up. He then texted Jing Jing that he was on his way.

 Chapter 36 - Betrayal

    "I hope I could get a hand with this rank 1 trending topic, a quick interview of these players should be enough! If not, rank 2 is also fine. I''m sure they will not reject an interview session with me." Jing Jing muttered while running some background check of her target. She searched different site about the Chronos squad, however, there was only a little information she could read about the group.


    After a few minutes of searching, Jing Jing came to a conclusion that the group had just got their popularity today!


    "Impressive! The netizens had really surpassed the influence of the press. They made the issue viral without the help of any publicity from our industry!"


    In the past, the press and big companies could only pull off certain issues and make them popular. However, because of technology, the citizens on the internet which were termed ''netizens'' had paved their way to becoming more influential just by using their accounts and posting daily topics.


    Another video clipped appeared on her feeds. It was the FDS Press Company who were broadcasting their road travel.


    "Alright folks, we will start hunting our famous celebrity couple! Our destination will be on the uptown for this morning! Then, we will transfer downtown in the afternoon. Are you ready? Let''s do this!" she watched as a woman spoke on the screen and announced the agenda of their company. It was nothing unusual as all the press company would usually have the same agenda.


    Jing Jing did not mind too much of what she saw and locked her phone. She then wore her uniform neatly and fixed herself. The pink lipstick she wore accentuated perfectly on her skin. A single spray from her expensive perfume made a finishing touch of her beauty routine.


    Carefully, Jing Jing hooked her ID on the chest pocket of her uniform and grabbed her tools. She took one last glance in the mirror and smiled generously.


    Not long after, she hopped in her car and quickly drove towards the public gymnasium of the district.


    As Jing Jing parked her car, she received a text message from her boss. She ignored her phone and maneuvered the steering wheel to perfectly made parallel parking with the other cars.


    After turning off the engine, she swiftly opened her inbox. Her boss informed her that a rival press company was already doing live coverage of the tournament and that the company had gotten a hold of the organizer of the event.


    Jing Jing paused and thought for a few seconds about how to respond to the message. Her fingers were lightly tapping on the back cover of her phone while her head was tilted slightly.


    Before she could type her response, an incoming call notification appeared on the screen of her phone.


    "Hello, Boss Wang!" Jing Jing promptly answered.


    "Aiyyaaa, Jing Jing! Where are you? The FDSS Press Company had broadcast a live interview on the organizers of the event!" Boss Wang told her. There was a slight disappointment in his tone of voice.


    "Boss Wang, I just arrived at the venue. I am still in the parking lot. Perhaps, the company also saw the viral posts in their social media accounts?" Jing Jing suggested the possibility. She was oblivious of the betrayal from her boyfriend and she could only think of one reason why their rival company had beat their opportunity. There was no other explanation other than the post as it can be seen by anyone.


    "Maybe. Jing Jing, you must try your best to find interesting scope. Since the FDSS already has the organizers of the event, maybe you can get hold of the Chronos players?" Boss Wang ordered. He could not also blame Jing Jing or anyone. All he hoped was that they could somehow get another interesting scope in the tournament.


    "Yes, Boss Wang. I will try." Jing Jing agreed quickly.


    When Jing Jing got out of her car, she immediately went to the entrance of the building. The lady did not need any tickets as she was officially employed in a press company. District 7 had given them certain privileges to get a scope freely in public gatherings and events as the publicity would also be beneficial for the district.


    "Good Morning, Ma''am Jing Jing! It is good to see you! Here are some keepsakes you can have for this tournament." the guard politely greeted the lady and handed her a cute brooch as well.


    The scribbled words on the item were, "I WAS THERE! District 7 1st Online Tournament"


    Jing Jing smiled and took the brooch from the guard. The guard had recognized her right away that he had let her slipped inside without asking for any identification.


    "Thank you, brother!" Jing Jing said and quickly move her feet towards the crowd.


    Out of the corner of her eyes, she noticed the crew of their rival company that was still interviewing the organizer of the tournament. Her eyes widened in shock and small lines of a frown appeared on her forehead.


    There was three staff of the FDSS Press Company. One female interviewer and one cameraman. Then there was another person standing next to the cameraman.


    "How could it be?!" Jing Jing balled her palms and formed it into a fist. The female interviewer and the cameraman were the same staff that had once announced that they would be hunting celebrity couples for Valentine''s Day!


    Jing Jing may be oblivious but she was smart when it comes to distinguishing the overall situation that involved her career. She had been in the press industry for years that she could quickly make insights into what was happening.


    There was only for the interviewer and the cameraman appeared in the gymnasium instead of the uptown part of the district. There was someone who had tipped them!


    Her gaze darted to the man standing next to the cameraman and her face turned sour. She recognized the man. It was her boyfriend''s friend! Although they have not officially introduced, she saw several posts in her boyfriend''s account of the two hanging out together with their group of friends.


    "Drake you bastard!" Jing Jing cursed coldly. She did not need to be a genius in guessing for her to know what her boyfriend had done!


    The feeling of being betrayed did not fuel sad feelings on her. Instead, it sparked the anger and fury within her heart.


    Her phone suddenly rings...


    "Speaking of the scum!" Jing Jing mumbled as her phone displayed a notification of an incoming call from her boyfriend.

 Chapter 37 - Confrontation

    ''Is he making fun of me? Does he think that my career is a joke? Hmmph!'' The lady pondered as her facial expression turned dark. Her fingers slide on the screen of her phone to answer the call.


    "Dearest Jing Jing, have you arrive in the public gymnasium? I just came and now I am about to enter inside. Where are you?" Drake casually talked after Jing Jing accepted his call. He eyed the group of audience that was passing through the exit of the building as he was trying to look for his girlfriend.


    "Jing Jing? Hello?" Drake spoke again when he failed to hear a response for Jing Jing.


    The lady on the other end of the call closed her eyes took a deep breath. She could not find a valid reason why her boyfriend would betray her. They had been together for almost a year. She thought that their connection was special. She even started saving money for her future together with him!


    The man was also aware that she loved her career in the press industry, yet he still sabotaged it!


    She opened her mouth but came to a realization that her lips had gone dry. She could feel the temper boiling in the temple of her head. Her heartbeat also quickened.


    "Drake, I''ll meet you at the entrance." Jing Jing finally responded. Her tone had turned colder than the glaciers of the Antarctic region.


    "Okay, dear. See you." She heard him responded. Jing Jing gritted her teeth and sauntered towards the entrance door.


    Upon seeing the man, Jing Jing quickly pulled Drake on the corner not far from the player''s booths. She had chosen the place where there were the least people around.


    "Drake, how dare you! How dare you tipped the FDSS Press Company about my scope! They are the rival company! Even if the staff of that company is your friend, I am still your girlfriend!" she icily glared at the man.


    Jing Jing felt the scorching fury towards the man that she quickly confronted him. She believed that a direct confrontation was way better than a question-and-answer session.


    Drake stared at her for a long time. A tiny smirk appeared on his face after realizing that Jing Jing was able to figure out his deceit. He brushed his hair and crossed his arms on his chest.


    The man stood straight and spoke, "Heh! You are indeed a smart woman! Yes, it was me who tipped the FDSS Press Company. So what?"


    Jing Jing''s anger boiled at the maximum after hearing her boyfriend''s response. Her nails had almost buried on her palms as she clenched her fist tightly.


    "Drake, are you a man?! You just pulled me down! What is wrong with you? You don''t even recognize your mistake!" Jing Jing''s voice turned low and dangerous.


    "Hahaha, do you really think that I have fallen in love with you? I am the heir of the FDSS Press Company. Surprise? Hehe, of course, I would prioritize what is beneficial to me! Didn''t we agree to priority our career?" Drake chuckled. His face was completely mocking at the lady standing in front of him.


    "Heir of the FDSS Press Company?" Jing Jing was momentarily shocked. Then she gathered her voice and continued, "Bah! Get out of my face! We are over! You and me, there is no future between us. You are worst than a dog! I hope karma will slap you hard in the face!" Jing Jing pushed the man and turned her body around. She leaned to the nearest column of the building so she could support herself. Her emotions were threatening to explode anytime soon.


    Drake shook his head and walked away as if nothing had happened. There was no remorse nor guilt that he felt. Jing Jing was right, he was worst than a dog. In fact, it would be an insult for a dog to be compared by the character of Drake!


    The man swiftly moved his feet and went towards the three staff of the FDSS Press Company and joined them. He even exchanged a hi-five with the other man.


    Meanwhile, Jing Jing felt like her legs turned limp. Her mood had turned 180 degrees. But she tried so hard so she could maintain standing on her feet.


    "What bad luck! I must calm myself first before I start my coverage." she softly mumbled and slowly walked.


    She just dumped a man on Valentine''s Day! It was indeed a bad luck! Jing Jing tried to clear her mind by shaking her head several times.


    On the player''s booth, Sofia caught a familiar figure out of the corner of her eyes. She stared at the figure that was leaning on the pillar of the building.


    Recognition flashed in Sofia''s eyes and her face turned pale as she stood from her seat.


    ''Is that... Is that assistant sec--... Miss Jing Jing?'' Sofia asked in her mind as she was bewildered of what she just saw.


    The woman in her mind was the secretary of the Summers Holdings Incorporated that had witnessed her death. Although the lady that Sofia was staring at looked younger and slimmer, the way this lady stood gave off a sense of familiarity that Sofia could not explain. In her previous life, the two of them had been working together for so long that she had memorized the mannerism of her secretary.


    "What''s wrong, Sof?" Claire asked after noticing Sofia''s unusual reaction.


    Sofia did not respond. Her eyes followed the figure as it was walking towards the exit of the building.


    "Claire, I''ll take care of something. I''ll be back, guys." Sofia quickly said and rushed out of their booth.


    The four members of the Chronos squad glanced at one another and shared with the same confused look. They had never seen Sofia in such expression before. It was almost like she had lost her composure.


    They stared at the retreating back of Sofia as she walked elegantly towards the exit of the building.

 Chapter 38 - Nostalgic Emotions

    "What is happening? It was like Sofia just saw a ghost?" Joey was the first to ask among the four of them.


    "I don''t know. But she looked pale out of a sudden," Clark responded.


    "She said that there is something important that she needed to do," Claire told them. She scratched the back of her neck while her gaze was following at the movement of Sofia.


    "Alright, it must be one of her acquaintances that she saw," Joey said and continued to watch the ongoing 4th match on the large screen. The rest of them heaved a sigh and focused on the ongoing match as well.


    Sofia''s steps were fast. She slightly smiled at the audience that attempted to approach and called her but she did not stop walking. When she managed to close the gap between her and Jing Jing, her suspicions confirmed!


    ''This lady was really Miss Jing Jing!'' Sofia took a big gulped to calm her emotions.


    In her past life, Jing Jing was the most efficient secretary in her company. The lady was eloquent and could handle the pressure of working with her. She knew how to speak with the partners in their business. Her knowledge in handling public matters was exceptional.


    "I don''t know why these details have lingered in my memory. But since our path had crossed in this new life, this must be fate." Sofia muttered to herself. She quickly formulated a plan to create a connection with the lady.


    Base on the lady''s expression, she could sense that Jing Jing was agitated. She also realized that the lady was a member of a press because of her uniform. ''Ms. Jing Jing must gave obtained her ability to speak easily and confidently in this job,'' Sofia thought.


    "Jing Jing calm down. Everything will be fine!" the lady chanted loudly complete unaware that there was an pair of eyes watching her from a few meters away distance.


    Sofia took a few steps and approached the guard on duty. "Mister, can I borrow a pen a paper?" she asked politely and eyed the paper on the mini desk of the guard.


    The man nodded his head but did not look at her. He simply moved the paper and pen towards her direction and said, "Here, just use it."


    "Thank you!" Sofia stated.


    Without wasting another second of her time, Sofia''s slender fingers picked the pen and she carefully scribbled something on the paper.


    For a few seconds, she stared at her handwriting. It was quite different from her past penmanship. But, the stroke of her letter S was similar. It was slanted and extended at the end.


    Sofia lightly laughed at the idea of giving the paper to Jing Jing but at that time, she had no choice. It was the only way she knew that she could pass her information to the lady.


    A gust of wind suddenly passed and blew Sofia''s short hair. She casually gathered the few strands and tucked them behind her ears. Her hands folded the paper once as she moved closer to Jing Jing.


    "Hello, I''m Sofia." she finally approached the lady with a friendly smile on her face.


    When Jing Jing heard a sweet and soft voice from her behind, she quickly calmed herself.


    "Hi, how can I help you?" Jing Jing responded. Her eyes darted at the ordinary face of the teenager in front of her.


    ''She does not look like she is from a prestigious family in this district, but her tone bore some weight and authority. Such a rare character!'' Jing Jing secretly made a quick assessment for her first impression.


    "Oh, nothing. I just noticed your uniform is from a press company. I came here to give you this." Sofia handed the piece of paper.


    "AH! Thanks! I''ll check this later." Jing Jing did not read the content of the paper. Although the teenager''s face looked familiar, the lady was still caught of guard by the events that she could not remember where she saw Sofia. She simply slipped the paper on her chest pocket and smiled at the teenager.


    "You''re welcome. Good to see you." Sofia stated.


    With her words, Jing Jing assumed that Sofia may be one of her fans. In her line of career, although it was rare they also have few fans that were following them. It was not the first time that she received a letter from a stranger. So, the lady did not find the gesture of Sofia strange.


    "Good to see you too." Jing Jing returned.


    "See you around," Sofia muttered. Half of her hair would constantly brush and cover her face because of the wind. She struggled to keep them in place.


    "Here, I have a clip to keep your hair away from your face." Jing Jing offered a butterfly hairclip to her.


    Sofia grabbed the clip and ran back inside the building. She then turned around and said, "Thanks!"


    "Did she become shy? Ahh teenagers these days are one moment straightforward the next moment they become shy!" Jing Jing pouted after Sofia disappeared from her sight.


    ~


    In the hallway, Sofia turned to a corner and went to the comfort room. Inside the stall, her tears burst crazily like a flood from her eyes.


    Such a gesture from the person she knew in the past had completely broken down her calm composure.


    Sofia remembered that this secretary would compliment her hair almost every day in her company.


    ''Ms. Summers, I love your hair! The style suits you well!''


    ''Wow, your hairstyle is fantastic today! I''m sure, all the bachelors would admire you!''


    ''Lisa, the hair color is perfect! Good choice!''


    Those were the few compliments that Sofia had revisited in her memories. For some reason unknown to her, remembering those words from the past-life secretary felt like someone had stabbed her heart.


    Sofia stared at the hairpin in her palm for so long. A few of her tears even dropped on it. She sobbed quietly.


    After a few minutes, she managed to calm down and wiped away the tears on her face. She pushed the door open and stared at her face in the wall mirror of the comfort room.


    ''The human instinct is really mysterious!'' she whispered.


    Luckily, nobody was around her. Sofia sprinkled some water on her face and fixed her hair. She then placed the butterfly hair clip on the side of her head.


    She took one deep breath before she calmly stepped out of the comfort room. The tournament was not yet finished and she could not afford to be distracted by her emotions as it might affect her performance. But deep down, she was determine to rope Jing Jing in.

 Chapter 39 - Jing Jings Faults

    The FDSS Press Company finished their interview with the head organizer of the tournament. Their live video was quickly noticed by the netizens. The reactions and compliments flooded towards their company for their promptness.


    The ranking of viral posts in social media gradually changed. Another tagged became trending. It was #FDSSOnlineCoverage. The cameraman continued to get a live video but the female staff decided to take a rest with the two other men.


    "Young master Drake, your tip is perfect! We became trending in just half an hour!" the female staff comically praised Drake for instructing them to get a live interview with the organizers of the event.


    "Thank you for your effort. Now, let''s take a break and get some hot coffee and snacks." Drake stated as the three of them walked in the hallway and were about to exit the gymnasium.


    Drake acted normal, like his indifferent demeanor. It was very clear that he was not affected by his breakup with Jing Jing. On contrary, he started flirting with the female staff of his father''s company.


    "So, Annie, any plans for you tonight?" Drake asked the female staff. He did not really know of this girl but the left side of her blouse had her name ''Annie'' embroidered on it.


    When the female staff heard Drake called her name, she felt overjoyed. The man never called the employees of his father''s company using their names! Annie instantly believed that the man had some feeling for her.


    "Tonight I suppose... I will have a good rest. There is nothing much to do with such an average woman like me, young master." the female staff answered.


    "In this case, let me invite you to a fancy restaurant for a dinner?" Drake offered a small grin to her.


    His reservation had been made a week ago for him and Jing Jing to celebrate. However, since Jing Jing had found out his ulterior motives, Drake conveniently used his reservation for another woman!


    To say, the man was just a classic playboy!


    The female staff quickly blushed when she heard the invitation. She was aware that Drake was the heir of the company that she was working with. Thus, the man could be considered as a big shot because of his future wealth. "Young master Drake, I am honored to be invited by you."


    The other man grinned from ear to ear. "Ahh, the young master had beaten my chance to invite you, Annie! Have fun the two of you tonight then."


    "Hehe, Bro, you are too slow!" Drake joked and smacked the shoulder of the man. The three of them laughed together as they stepped outside of the gymnasium.


    In the corner of his eye, Drake noticed Jing Jing standing alone. The lady was staring at the clouds. The sun reflected her bright skin that it gave her presence looked otherwordly.


    Drake momentarily halted his steps to gawked at Jing Jing. It was the first time he saw her captivating look.


    As if the woman felt the intensity of his gaze, she turned her head and met his eyes. In an instant, a scowl appeared on her face. Drake quickly looked away. But the female staff have noticed his reaction and followed the direction of where he was looking.


    "Ehh, young master Drake, what a coincidence! Isn''t that the staff from the WG Studios and Media Firm? This is our rival company!" Annie announced confidently. She did not know about the relationship between Jing Jing and Drake, so she quickly laced her hand on Drake''s arms and pulled him in the direction of Jing Jing.


    Drake rolled his eyes as he prepared himself for a drama. He planned to act


    "Yo! Is this the famous figure of WG Studios and Media Firm? Our company has established an exclusive contract with the organizers of this tournament. It seems that you are late and were left with nothing to cover her?" Annie said while casting a look of contempt towards Jing Jing.


    "Congratulations," Jing Jing muttered dryly as she glanced at the group before she walked away.


    She contemplated whether she would return inside the gymnasium or not. When she heard that their rival company had secured not just a contract but an exclusive contract between the organizers of the tournament, she assumed that all of the players would also be interviewed by her rival company. In this case, Jing Jing had really lost her chance to get an interesting scope for the day.


    After getting away from the group, she took her phone to report her situation.


    "Boss Wang, the rival company already secured an exclusive contract with the organizers of the event. Sorry boss Wang, I have let you down." Jing Jing Softly apologized.


    "Okay, Jing Jing. Then, just enjoy your Valentine''s Day. Don''t worry about it. It''s not your fault. We did not know that this tournament would have a great impact today. " Boss Wang quickly acknowledged to comfort her. However, Jing Jing felt even more guilt in her heart with the words that her boss said.


    "T-thank you, boss Wang." Jing Jing said and finished their conversation. She was aware that it was her fault for trusting Drake. It was her fault for not knowing her ex-boyfriend''s background very well.


    She stared at the ground with deep hatred in her eyes. Jing Jing spent the majority of her time in her career. When she realized that her action caused her career to be compromised, she could not almost forgive herself!


    ''Drake, you are not worthy of my anger!'' she blinked her eyes and calmed herself.


    Meanwhile, Annie glared at Jing Jing''s back and could not believe that she was ignored by the other woman. Although Jing Jing had said her congratulations, Annie could not feel the sincerity of the woman''s tone.


    "How rude! I did not know that the employees at WG Studios and Media Firm are actually snobs!" Annie frowned while her eyes followed the movement of Jing Jing.


    "Ignore her. We have managed to join the trending topics online because of your interview with the organizers of the tournament. Now, we can be at ease that the WG Studios won''t be able to keep up with us." Drake said and gently rubbed Annie''s shoulder.


    The lady smiled by the gentleness that Drake showed at her. "Thank you, young master Drake." she smiled back at him and the three finally went across the street where they entered a coffee shop.

 Chapter 40 - Plans & Prize

    Sofia returned to her group and heard Joey and Clark discussing her whereabouts and their next match opponent. The lady did not realize that she had been gone for an hour and that her group was already bothered about her strange behavior.


    "Sorry, I went out for too long!" Sofia said to her teammates before she occupied the seat next to Stephen. Her eyes quickly moved on the stage area and she saw the large screen also flashed all the list of squad winners on the elimination round.


    "We almost called the security to look for you! Are you okay, Sof?" Stephen asked with a hint of concern in his voice. The rest of her team looked at her with the same inquisitive gaze.


    Sofia smiled at them and replied, "I''m fine. There was a person that I have to give our contact for our squad to have advertising soon."


    "Oh, you have talked to the media for sponsorships?" Joey inquired curiously. He somehow had an idea that some gamers would get sponsors and earn money.


    "Not really, I just gave our contact details. There was no official agreement yet about sponsorship and branding yet." Sofia answered.


    Claire slightly raised her arm and waved her hand towards the face of Sofia.


    She then muttered, "You sound like you knew the procedure of the media people, Sof. If I don''t know you for so long, I would think that you are a different person!"


    "Hahaha, what different person? It''s me! Recently, I have been reading the business magazine online so that we would be able to spend our prize in a more profitable way." Sofia cheekily said. She tucked her hair behind her ears and looked away. Reading business magazine online was a good alibi that she came up with as Claire knew that she paid so much attention in front of her computer.


    "Tell me the article that you are reading online, Sof! Maybe you can forward me a link. I need to learn that also." Clark mentioned with a certain degree of eagerness in his tone.


    "I can''t remember which article it was. But if you search business-related magazine and profit, you''ll be able to see it for sure." Sofia looked apologetic. She felt a pang of slight guilt for lying at Clark and her team. But, it was the only way she could think of.


    "That sounds so ironic though! Spend our prize in a more profitable way? If we spend our money, then we lose it right?" Claire asked Sofia and also looked at the three men to seek an answer.


    "We will lose our money so that it will make more money for us. There is a way to do spending money and receiving more than what we spend." Sofia explained.


    "Then what are your plans for the prize?" Clark asked.


    "We are still students, so, what we can do is to join profitable investments online and save the earning. But after we graduate, we will use the money to create a physical means to gain more money. I will explain everything later on." Sofia said. In her mind, the place was too inappropriate to conduct business proposals or business meetings. But, she had been planning the proposal even before the match. She just did not tell her members about the business plans in her mind for them to focus on the tournament solely.


    "Okay, that sounds great! By the way, the FDSS Press Company was indeed doing live coverage of this tournament. And would you believe it if I told you that we are trending online?! This is crazy!" Clark''s voice tuned up and told them of his discovery.


    The group had been so engrossed with the game that they did not open their social media accounts.


    Sofia was not also interested in social media, so, there was no way for her to be aware of the netizen''s activities.


    Only Clark was the first to take a peek as his brother sent him a message to check his account.


    "You sound so hype! Let me see!" Joey said and leaned his face towards the mobile screen of Clark. He then stood straight and rubbed his eyes. "We are not only trending! We are viral top 1 topic?!" he announced in disbelief.


    Stephen and Claire quickly opened their phone to see their ranking.


    "We are! Wow! This is nice but, our standing is not yet stable. It is too early to celebrate. Let''s secure the victory not only of the matches but also the entire tournament!" Claire clapped her hands and reminded the group not to feel overjoyed.


    "Yes, that is only natural. I will not reply in the comments yet." Clark said however in his mobile screen that revealed his account, he had almost typed his ''thank you'' and replied to the netizens.


    ~


    "Dearest audience, we will have a 15 minutes break to give our operators and technical group to arrange the necessary cable connections for the next match. It will no longer be on a 40-Player map. The next round will be the usual 5 vs 5. One squad will fight another squad. Stay tuned!"


    The event host took over the stage and announced that they would take a break for 15 minutes before the next elimination round would begin.


    The two commentators were long gone on their tables. They went to the staff room and started to discuss their feelings for the overall winning squads of the 40-Player map.


    "This Chronos squad performance was great. But it is because of the no respawn rule inside the first elimination map. If their opponents were able to respawn, there was no way they could survive. I bet, they would be eliminated in the match first!" the older commentator glanced towards his partner.


    "You got it right. And the social media had been down for about ten minutes because of this topic! This is just a district tournament! Even the tournaments of the regional, national, and international level have not gained this kind of public discussion!" the younger commentator pointed out. His eyes were looking at his mobile screen while he was completely astonished.


    "Oh, they are indeed the hot topic in social media. The generations had really changed. Most of the netizens can now appreciate online gaming activities. Back in the days, I was labeled a nerd because I was playing a video game! I even felt embarrassed to be seen playing!" the older player did not shy away as he shared his past experience on playing video games.


    "Yes, the new generations were inclined to play online games now. They even prefer to socialize in game than in real life." the younger commentator expressed.

 Chapter 41 - First Battle Incited By The Audience

    The player''s lounge was left empty as the two men in their early twenties went on the area. They were the tournament''s technical team. These two were assigned to help if some problem would occur in the game. They also helped maintained a good network signal for the entire tournament to avoid interruption of the game.


    One guy swiftly examined all the devices for the next match and attached some necessary cables. The other guy rearranged the seats and also switched the map to the usual 5 vs 5 battlefield.


    Based on their movements, these two men could be considered experts in their field of work. Their hands were so fast that it did not take more than five minutes to do their tasks.


    "I''m done, here. How about you?" one of the guys called his companion.


    "Yep, all set for the next elimination round! The 5 vs 5 map is ready. Let''s go and visit the computer room. Brother Chris is the operator of the projector on the screen." his companion gestured a thumbs up with a boyish smile. He then suggested visiting another colleague in the operator''s room.


    "Oh, that senior brother Chris?! Let''s go! Hehe We can watch the next match with him." the companion chuckled as they leave the player''s lounge.


    The two walked in unhurried pacing unaware of some eyes from the audience''s side that were watching their every move.


    These guys were wearing casual jeans and shirts. Though their fashion sense was simple, their looks were enough to make few girls glance and ogle at them. And the thick eyeglasses that they wore were seemed to perfectly compliment their face.


    Other audiences also overheard their casual exchange of conversation. Since the players were resting on their booths, the audience''s attention shifted to the crew of the tournament facilitators.


    "These two guys in IT are so handsome and cool! Look at the player''s lounge!" one teenage girl grinned while she tried to nudge her friend using her elbow. She boldly stared towards the two guys.


    The friend who was busy with her phone looked up and glanced at the area where she was looking and responded, "I know right? I will surely take an IT course in college. My sister also encouraged me to get this course after I graduate."


    "Me too, I wanna write gaming codes! Let''s be classmates forever!" the girl casually said while giving the two guys in the technical team a dreamy smile.


    "Could it be that you are having a crush on that staff of this tournament?" her friend teased her.


    "Ahhh! What are you talking about? I''m not!" the girly quickly denied. But her face turned red as the hard blush crept her cheeks.


    Her other friend just laughed at her reaction before she changed the topic, "Look at the social media. This tournament became viral! I didn''t see any posts about celebrity couples so far!"


    "Really? I''ll check!" the girl opened her phone and did not speak anymore.


    Meanwhile, outside the gymnasium, Jing Jing felt conflicted. She was contemplating how she would celebrate the day. Part of her inner will wanted to take a scope of the tournament for her to prove a point of her ex that she could still do better despite his betrayal. She just hated the idea of giving up and lose at her ex-boyfriend!


    "Ahhh, Maybe there is still an interesting scope for me to get in this tournament. Hmmm..." Jing Jing said aloud. She looked around and absentmindedly scratched the back of her head. Even though the FDSS Press Company had told her that they got the exclusive contract of the tournament to cover their event, she was eager to get an opportunity.


    Her feet were slightly aching because of the high heels she wore. She pursed her lips and frowned at the expensive purple heels she was wearing. Every now and then, she kept shifting her foot to feel comfortable.


    After a few seconds, her eyes landed on the empty bench next to a tree. Jing Jing slowly walked towards the bench and sat.


    "What should I do?" She clasped her hands and crossed her legs. Her mind was searching for the possible prospect of her coverage.


    For a moment, she pondered quietly.


    "Hmmnn... " a frowned etched in her forehead as she was in deep thought. "Ah! If I can''t get the coverage of the tournament, I might as well just watch the game! Anyway, boss Wang already told me to enjoy my Valentine''s Day!" she finally settled on the idea of just watching the competition instead of getting a scope for her company.


    Jing Jing glanced at her watch. It had just been thirty minutes past ten in the morning. A small yawn escaped from her lips as she easily stretched her hands and legs before she stood and left the bench.


    ~


    When Jing Jing found her seat in the audience area, the host also walked back on the stage. She smiled at the other people who glanced at her before she focused her attention on the host.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, we will start in a few minutes! At this moment, I will show you the match arrangement for the next elimination round! Bear in mind that this is still the single elimination round. If the squad is defeated, they will lose their chance to advance to the next round." the host spoke excitedly.


    On the screen, the squad''s name flashed again with their assigned opponent as well as the assigned match number for the round:


    Battle 1 - Heavenly Noob Squad vs Shadow Slayer Squad


    Battle 2- Lee Gaming Squad vs Evil Gaming Squad


    Battle 3 - SOD-X vs Scout Regiment


    Battle 4 - The Chronos Squad vs Vultramites


    "Ehh?? Why is it that they put the Chronos squad in the last? This organizer''s in the tournament really know how to arrange their match!" One of the tourists in the audience side voiced his opinion. It was not certain if he was criticizing the arrangement of the match or complimenting the organizers for placing the Chronos squad in the last battle.


    "Yes, that''s a good strategy to make the audience anticipate the game more." the middle-aged man sitting beside him responded.


    "I''m not sure if the audience would want to anticipate the game though. Hihihi," the tourists said. Then, out of a sudden, an evil smirk appeared on his face. He stood on his seat and shouted loudly, "Make Chronos squad vs Vultramites in the first battle! First battle! First battle!"


    "This boy is crazy!" the middle-aged man quickly shook his head and criticized the tourist''s action. But ironically, he also stood on his seat and joined the boy. "Put the Chronos squad on the first battle! First battle! First battle!"

 Chapter 42 - How The Back End Of The Tournament Gain Profit

    "Hehehe... " the host forced a smile as he face the overflowing emotions from the audience. He was speechless and could only laugh.


    With the incitement of one tourist, it became a rally of an entire crowd.


    The wild chant of "FIRST BATTLE" echoed even to the outside of the gymnasium.


    The host took a deep breath and his feet moved to slowly stepped backward. He then subtly faced the organizers backstage. Those were the staff who made the battle arrangements for the round.


    "Ahhh, the audience side wants to see the Chronos squad fight first! Do we change the battle arrangement?" the host reported. He moved his microphone away from his mouth and eyed the organizers. He was still obliged to make an effort to yell his words, otherwise, he won''t be heard!


    "Do you think we are deaf? We can hear it. But it''s not good! We won''t be changing the arrangements so that we can gain more," the organizer gave the host a disapproving look. He could feel that the host wanted to give in to the demand of the audience, yet, they must maintain their arrangement for their business to gain more.


    "Gain more?" the host furrowed his eyebrows.


    "Yes, senior, you may not know but the tournament is a win-win situation. This was all-around beneficial to everyone present at the event. I will explain to you later. Just announce the start of this round now." another organizer cast a sympathetic look towards the host. He could sense that the man, despite being part of the tournament staff, was not aware of how they get their profits.


    "Okay, okay." the host agreed and quickly stepped forward. He secretly took a deep breath and paused paused for a while.


    A generous grin appeared on his lips while he was adjusting his uniform. Then his hands shot forward and waved to signal for the audience to calm their emotions before he opened his mouth . After several seconds, the man finally started to speak...


    "Hahaha, I know that you are eager to see the Chronos squad play first. I also want to watch their match right now! But this has been decided. This is the arrangement of this second elimination round."


    After the announcement was done, the audience looked unhappy. They thought that the host would placed the Chronos on the first battle. However their hopes were crushed by his announcement.


    "AWWW!!!" the sigh of disappointment quickly followed from the audience rows.


    "It''s not bad. At least we try." the tourist who first incited the shouting calmly took his seat.


    "Organizers would never allow the host to change the battle arrangement. That is within my expectation." the man beside him stated. These two seemed to have a tacit understanding of how to organize an event as well.


    "Yes, I see. Not bad! These organizers are capable." the tourist responded while slightly clapping his hands.


    On the stage, the host started to call the names of the players and their squads. Ten participants quickly went to the center of the gymnasium to start the match.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, the second elimination round begins! In the first battle, Heavenly Noob Squad vs Shadow Slayer Squad!" the two commentators finally took over the game.


    The host quickly joined the organizers after the commentators spoke. They were not so familiar but they had been acquainted during the preparation of the event.


    "Why is it that the Chronos squad is the last to play? The audience looked unhappy," the host immediately told the people in front of him.


    "Hmmn, Right now they are the crucial part of this tournament. It is called saving the best for last." the host saw the wicked smile from the organizer''s face.


    "You may not know this, senior, but we are also monitoring the social media status of our event. And we discovered that this group, even though their squad has no history in gaming community, they managed to be the rank 1 trending topic up until now! For the last hours, they are dominating the top trending of the discussions online!" one of the organizers eyed the host excitedly.


    "Really? Is it about the ranking?" the host mumbled while in deep thought. Rankings was indeed important for them.


    "Not just the ranking. You see, in this business, everyone would somehow get their piece of an award. For the player, they would get a chance to win. By winning, they will get not only the cash prize but also the prestige to be the very first champion in their district competition. This was the ultimate goal that most players had for today''s event." the organizer started.


    "Yes, that is actually obvious." the host responded.


    "On our side as the organizers of the tournament, we would also take a relative share of their profit from the sales in the tickets and their online views. The sponsorship where we flashed the brands of a different company on the large screen also paid us a reasonable amount of money."


    The host nodded his head in agreement and replied, "Naturally, that is our means to profit in this event. But what is the connection of these things to the battle arrangement?"


    "There is a big connection. The tournament as a whole is also an advertising strategy for the game. The more audiences it would reach, the more likely the people would play the game. It relies on the level of publicity this tournament would get for it to gain new users of its game. so, we must try our best to gain viewers in every possible angle." the organizer gazed at the host with deep understanding.


    "Ohhh, so the Chronos squad must be placed at the last battle so that the viewers would increase?" the host clarified. They were using the Chronos squad as the leverage to gain more customers!


    "You are right. This is why we cannot follow what our audiences are asking. I''m sure some of the audience are aware of these details. Who knows? Someone might just be sabotaging our way to profit more from the event? After all, we have rivals in this business!" the organizer explained.


    It is to say that the arrangement of placing the Chronos squad in the last battle would gave an overall great impact on the companies backing the tournament. It may look simple but it was an elaborate plan that was carefully thought by these organizers.


    However, those who were not conscious of how the back end of the event worked would also not mind giving in to what is being demanded.


    The host was completely not aware of the advantages and disadvantages of the arrangement of the battles for the upcoming round. But with the explanation from the two organizers, he finally saw the meaning of their battle arrangements.


    Remembering the disapproving look of the organizer earlier, the host could only scratch his head as he felt embarrassed by his lack of knowledge.


    "We just opened an online betting pool for this round also. The squad should be like a finale. Online betting is increasing and the longer the time we could drag their anticipated match, the amount we could profit from it would likely be tripled." another organizer stepped up and showed at the host the site where the poll recorded the bets.


    "Okay! Hehe" The host made a quick bow as recognition dawned upon him. The organizers were not simple! Just like the participants of the game, they were calculating every decisions they make for the entire tournament to be successful!

 Chapter 43 - Flirtatious Glances

    "The man sitting on the adjacent booth, he is throwing flirtatious glances over our direction. Does he like me?" Stephen uttered loudly. Somehow, he could sense that the man was familiar but he could not remember where he saw him. He made sure to speak in a loud voice as he intended to make the other players overhear his remarks.


    "Which booth?" Joey asked. His attention was initially on his phone when he heard the complaint of his friends. The man looked up and glanced at the different booths.


    Claire and Clark also looked up. Meanwhile, Sofia was just typing something on her phone and was engrossed by it. Her fingers were so busy tapping the device that she did not pay much attention to their subject of interest.


    "I think you are referring to the founder of the Lee Gaming Squad in the 5th booth? Dude! That man is straight! Why would you assume that he is staring at you?" Clark chuckled as he noticed that there was only one both with a player that was looking in their direction.


    "Just look at him and you''ll see! He is throwing flirty glances on me!" Stephen replied. He glared at the man once more and carefully crossed his legs as he comfortably leaned his back on the sofa.


    Truth be told, Brent was indeed looking at the Chronos group. When Clark met his gaze, the man also smiled and winked!


    Clark was horrified and quickly looked away! It was the first time in his life that a man winked at him while giving him a seductive look.


    "Damn! I know that man. He is Brent Lee and is one of the richest people in the district! He actually winked at me!" Clark shivered. While he felt the goosebumps on his skin. Just now, he was defending the man but, he was no longer sure of his emotion after he saw him winked!


    Suddenly, Clark heard a loud sigh from Claire. He looked at her and saw the playful smile on her lips.


    Joey''s hands instantly flew in the air and gently hit on Clark and Stephen. It landed perfectly at the back of their heads. The faint ''pak'' sounded at the same time.


    The two immediately glared at him.


    "Why did you do that?! That hurts bro!" Stephen sneered while Clark remained silent as his fingers pressed the area that was hit. He kept rubbing the back of his head.


    "The two of you are really thick-faced! That man is not looking at you. He is looking at Sofia!" Joey said with a smirk on his lips. He knew that he did not place any force on his hands when he smacked them. So, he just laughed at their reactions.


    Claire giggled and nodded her head to support Joey''s claim. She was amused that the two have thought that Brent was seducing them! "Guys, he is really looking at Sofia and not the two of you!"


    "EHHH? Is it?" Stephen glanced at Sofia. The lady was still busy looking at her phone. Out of a sudden, her head tilted towards the direction of Brent and she waved a hand at him. The man also waved back at her.


    The two had been exchanging chat messages! While Sofia''s attention was on her phone, Brent had been looking in her direction which Stephen misunderstood!


    But as soon as realization dawned upon Stephen, his face turned sour. He felt a sudden tug in his chest. "You know him, Sof?" he quickly asked.


    Sofia nodded his head and replied, "We met on a different game before. It was a long time ago. He is a good friend. I taught him how to play."


    When she first received the message from Brent, Sofia was hesitant to send a response. She had no idea about the man and the first message was just, "It''s me, Brent."


    The text was so vague that she just ignored it. But after he proceeded to introduced himself further, she also found out in the memory of the original Sofia that the man was her online friend. And that they were somehow close to each other before.


    "Are you sure that he is just an acquaintance? He winked at you!" Stephen quickly emphasized what the man just did. In his mind, such action is not just from someone that Sofia had acquainted.


    "We are good acquaintances. A close friend in the game but we have never met in real life before." Sofia explained and finally placed her phone down. Such a relationship was not strange for them who met strangers in the game daily. Some strangers would eventually become a close friends.


    Brent''s last message was informing Sofia that he was one of the participants. He also recounted some of the good times where they played together. To which Sofia replied, "good luck to us, may the best squad win!"


    ~


    "Clark, our next match will be against your brother." Claire suddenly inserted after Stephen went silent.


    "Yes, my brother said good luck." Clark simply responded.


    "Your brother is a marksman user, you would be the first target every time he gets the opportunity to deal damage against us," Claire said in a confident tone. She had been observing the gameplay of James and could not help appreciating his skills. The man was too good with locking a target to kill! Such ability was definitely worthy to be respected.


    They have planned their next play. Joey would switch from the support user to a fighter. The rest would maintain their role.


    "AHHH, your brother would be troublesome when he gets the upper hand and the items in the early game. Their gold earnings and exp earnings in the jungle must be restrained and steal." Joey also muttered.


    "The jungle, I can harass them. Clark, we will steal the jungle while Claire gets ours." Sofia said.


    "It''s too dangerous, Sof!" Clark suddenly became alert. On his first match, he had just remained on the base. There was no pressure on his safety. But now, Sofia actually asked him to join in jungle stealing!


    "It is dangerous. But, just enjoy the game. Don''t worry about the risk of dying, our characters can resurrect. It''s no longer like the initial match. As long as the base is not destroyed, you will have the opportunity to play! The riskier you play, the more you''ll enjoy the game." Sofia spoke lightly as she encouraged Clark not to think too much and enjoy the risks.


    "Alright. Hehe, Then, I will join you. We will steal their jungle!" Clark finally agreed even though he was not sure about the outcome. He could only rely on Sofia''s arrangement as he trusted her decision on their next match.

 Chapter 44 - Be Bold And Take Risks

    "Sof, Y-you know my ability. I hope that later in our match, I won''t drag our performance down." Clark secretly told Sofia. Clark was aware of his ability and his anxiety was growing bigger. He knew that it is only around common players'' level rather than the pro players.


    Heck, some players were even better than him in terms of quick reaction time in the game. Clark was self-conscious. He was slightly bothered that he may cause them to lose the game because of his average skills.


    Upon hearing his worry, the lady just smiled and looked at him in the eye. The kind of look that held both promise and assurance. One glance but was enough to calm his nerves from overthinking.


    "We will be fine, Clark. Just avoid going solo for this round. Since one of our opponents is your brother, he must have known your gameplay more than me. He would probably think that you would stick to your old styles of playing the game. This is why I need you to be bolder and don''t afraid to take risks. This way, your brother won''t be able to predict your next move."


    ''Be bolder and take risks!'' the words directly pierced his heart. He had been playing safe. This kind of attitude did not escape from the observant eyes of the lady. Now, Sofia wanted him to spread his wings and fly high!


    "You are right. I will try my best." Clark muttered as his emotion swelled by Sofia''s words. He stared at his hands and looked closely at the lines on his palm.


    After a minute of looking at the lines of his palm, he clenched his hand and formed a fist. "I will do my best," Clark repeated. He was determined not to try his best but act on it instead!


    "Hmmn, let''s do our best," Sofia mumbled and glanced at the large screen. Thie group finally shifted their attention back to the battle of the Heavenly Noob Squad Vs The Shadow Slayer squad.


    This first match was almost over... or so they thought?


    On the large screen, the Shadow Slayer squad was already gaining the advantage of the ongoing battle. The two sides clashed and ended with a good result for their group.


    The screen showed the player''s status and all the characters of the Heavenly Noob squad were still waiting to be resurrected. They were wiped out after the clash!


    It had been nearly 12 minutes of the game and the revive countdown for the players to get back on the map was also extended.


    The first one to die was the tank of the Heavenly Noob squad. And the minimum time of the countdown for the player to return in the match was still 30 seconds!


    This half a minute would have a large impact on them!


    In fact, it was probably enough for their opponent to destroy their base!


    Meanwhile, on the side of the Shadow Slayer squad, the 2 players were still actively rushing to push the top lane of their enemy.


    They did not even return to the base to regain their HP and MP. They just continued attacking despite the little life points of their characters!


    "The Shadow Slayer squad will finish the game! Their opponents are still waiting to be resurrected. The towers and base are wide open! All the Heavenly Noob squad players can rely upon were their creeps! But is it enough to delay the two players so they could get a chance to defend their base? Can they still return or is the resurrecting countdown be the last thing that they could see before they lose?" the first commentator speculated loudly. Given the situation, he assumed that the match would be over in no time!


    The perspective of the game was also switched to the two players of the Shadow Slayer squad who were taking advantage of the opponent''s absence.


    Everyone could relate to their action. They could feel the eagerness of the two players to get the victory.


    In the center of the gymnasium, all players have different expressions on their faces. But for the two active players, the hunger to win the match was evident in how they clasped their fingers on the mobile phone. The two gripped their device firmly and their thumbs showed rapid movements of tapping on the screen. A small smile can also be seen on their lips.


    "Push, push, push," their other companions chanted. Their characters were still resurrecting also but they were confident that the two teammates can carry them towards their victory.


    The tank of the Heavenly Noob Squad stared blankly at the countdown of his screen.


    15...


    14...


    13...


    12...


    11...


    The man glanced at the two opponents that were clearing their creeps. He muttered a silent prayer to give him a chance to defend the base. As long as the countdown of his character to resurrect would be over, he was certain that he can protect the base.


    The man took a deep breath. His forehead was already drenched with sweat. It would seem like waiting for the seconds to finish the countdown was like waiting for an eternity. It was the longest wait he had ever done!


    3...


    2...


    1...


    "Nice!" The man grinned and leaped forward!


    Thankfully, their creeps had successfully delayed the two opponents.


    Before these players could destroy the Heavenly Noob Squad base, the tank already arrived and pushed their characters away from the base.


    There was just too little damage to the skills as the build of the tank was all defensive items. But such action stopped the two opponents from their pursuit of victory.


    The fans watching intently on the first battle for the second elimination round were flung into a state of mixed emotion.


    On the side of the Shadow Slayer squad, the supporters felt that it was a waste of opportunity. The two players were almost there! They got a chance to deal with some damage to their opponent''s base. But, because of the tank''s action, their attacks abruptly stopped!


    Meanwhile, on the side of the Heavenly Noob squad, all fans took a breath of relief. Just like the players they had been silently praying that their favorite squad would not be eliminated!


    "That was too close!" the tank user mumbled. His character was towering at their base while he was waiting for their entire member to finish the countdown of their resurrection.


    The Shadow Slayer players also made a series of signals for the two members to retreat. Since all their opponents were about to revive, they must exercise an extra patient and be careful of their next attack!

 Chapter 45 - A Battle Settled By An NPC

    Shadow Slayer vs Heavenly Noob Squad


    "Oh, no! Come on! The two lacked attacked speed, partner! Had their characters got the quicker attacks and good damage, the base should be finished!" the commentator slightly chuckled after the scene focused on the two players knocked back by the tank and retreated quickly. He had recognized easily which part where the two players fall short.


    "Yes! Dang it! I didn''t think those two Shadow Slayer players would be interrupted by the Heavenly Noob Squad! Well done to the tank of the Heavenly Noob squad! Well Done!!! The match is still going! It''s not yet done!" the other commentator followed to speak his compliments towards the tank user.


    "The Heavenly Noob Squad refused to give up! Indeed, this match is not yet over! They will have a full counter-attack rally!" the commentator added while the screen was busy flashing the events inside the map.


    As for the players competing in this first battle, they were also thrown in a daze.


    "TSK! That was a good chance for us to win! But now, we are back to this struggle again! Damn!" one player from the Shadow Slayer squad gritted his teeth by their loss of opportunity.


    "The two of you should have increased your attack speed so that you have destroyed the base quickly! What have you been thinking!? You were too slow in releasing your attacks!" their fighter user clicked his tongue in frustration. It irked him to see the two characters missed the chance to destroy the base of the Heavenly Noob squad.


    The two players who were subjected to the blame glanced at him coldly. Some hatred started to bubble on their chest. Irritation was very evident in their eyes.


    "You can''t blame us! It was you who messed up delivering with your skills earlier! I have to focus on the weapon that would lessen my cooldown because you are too greedy!" the mage user argued as his mage character successfully teleported back to the base. He also emphasized how the fighter played greedily.


    "And it is my fault that you play like a coward? Bah! I was about to initiate a clash but you left on the area earlier! Your mage should stun those enemies however you missed casting your skills! Don''t ever expect me to feel guilty about what I have done!" the fighter user retorted and list down the mistake of their mage user.


    "My skill was still in cooldown! That is your problem, you are too greedy! You cannot wait! You have no patience and that could be the reason if we lose this game!" the mage user clenched his fist in anger.


    "SSSHHHH! Instead of blaming each other for these mistakes, just focus on dealing with the opponents! What''s done cannot be changed! Now, they are coming on our side! All of them are marching in the middle lane," the marksman user hissed in annoyance and reprimanded the two teammates.


    Such conflict could not be helped as emotions had taken over the two gamers. Somehow, the mistakes of a teammate could really be irritating. Both of them made a minor mistake in the early minutes of the game that pulled their team to the disadvantage. Thankfully, their enemies also made a major mistake during their clash that gave them the opportunity to push and seek a comeback.


    The mage user and the fighter user mumbled a quick "sorry" before they formed a barricade on all their lanes.


    They have to wait on their opponents to come to their territory as all their towers were already destroyed. Only their characters could defend on the top lane, middle lane, and bottom lane. One mistake and it would be over for them!


    On the opposite area of the player''s lounge, a sigh of relief reverberated loudly from the players of the Heavenly Noob squad.


    Seeing that their tank had successfully interrupted the two players from their opponent''s team, they looked pleased. This was the only thing that they have asked.


    Destroying the opponent''s base was the main goal that all squad aimed for them to finish the match and be victorious. As long as their base was still surviving, they can fight their way to win!


    The tank stood mightily while the player using the character had gently bent his neck from side to side. His in-game character resembled that of a mythical beast with two sharp horns. It had a bulky body of a man and the head of a bull. As the tank character prevented the destruction of the base, the other players were also resurrected.


    "ATTACK!"


    The tank initiated a signal and all the other characters moved behind him. These players were determined to end the game.


    "Let''s go!"


    A rally immediately began as all of the Heavenly Noob squad started to march on the middle lane. They have long predicted that their opponent would not dare leave their base.


    "OHH NO!" an audience suddenly cried loudly in suspense.


    The characters of the Heavenly Noob squad was still marching with a sole determination to destroy the base of their opponent. But on the large screen, the perspective was moved to the top lane of their territory.


    Some of the opponent''s small soldiers were also walking towards the base of the Heavenly Noob Squad. The NPCs of the Shadow Slayer squad were almost invading their base!


    These oblivious players were so consumed by the idea of finishing the match that they have forgotten to clear their lanes first!


    Even if the system had already announced the invasion of the small soldiers on their base, they have actually ignored the notification.


    Their characters continued to march as they crossed on the opposite side of the river, going towards the Shadow Slayer squad''s base.


    Perhaps they have underestimated the damage from the attacks of the creeps. Little did they know, NPCs of the game were designed to deal a fixed amount of damage and dynamics. Once it''s started to attack their base, it won''t stop until it dies!


    "It looks like this match will be settled by an NPC!? Hehe," the commentator was also quick to emphasize the existence of the small soldiers as it arrived towards its opponent''s base.


    "Too careless!" Sofia mumbled while she followed the movement of the small soldiers on the large screen.


    "Our base is under attack!" the support user of the Heavenly Noob squad was the first to realize their dire situation. They have neglected the system''s notifications that their base was already under attack. Before they could move further, the screen of their device was prompted with a "DEFEAT" status.

 Chapter 46 - Satisfaction And Fulfillment

    The players of Shadow Slayer squad were fully prepared for the Heavenly Noob squad to attack, hence, they were fully startled by the sudden result of the match. They felt both confusion and delight when their screen suddenly showed the word "VICTORY".


    "W-why... we won?" one of the members raised an eyebrow as his eyes were darted on his mobile phone.


    Like their opponents, these players did not also expect to get a direct win. They have yet anticipated the Heavenly Noob Squad to arrive on their territory. Their characters had been waiting to clash. But what they received was not another battle. Instead, they got their goal in the match!


    Victory!


    The players clumsily placed the mobile phones on the table and peered at one another. Without waiting for another second, they stood from their seats and took a look at the large screen.


    Although their devices have shown their victory status, they could not believe it.


    "How did we win? Did the Heavenly Noob squad accidentally clicked the surrender?" the marksman user massaged his fingers and twisted them to relax as he asked his companions.


    "I am not sure if they concede. I only say the victory! Let''s take a look at the replay!" the mage user stretched his arms and watched the large screen in the middle of the stage.


    Truly, these players were as oblivious as their opponents.


    They were too focused on the incoming attack of their enemies that they have momentarily neglected to look at their map. Now, all they could only rely on was watching the replay of their game for them to see what had really happened!


    "So, it was our creeps! WAHAHAHA" the fighter user of the Shadow Slayer squad burst a fit of laughter. His joyous expression quickly influenced the others. The boy pressed his hands on his stomach as he was extremely amused at how their match had turned out.


    His companions followed and chuckled at what they have witnessed on the large screen as well. The creeps had really brought them the victory!


    "GG to our creeps!!!" they mumbled together and their smile turned into a full side grin. The group shared a hi-five and jumped happily at the result of their match.


    The players waved at the audience side before they left the lounge with pretty smiles on their faces.


    Meanwhile, the participants of Heavenly Noob squad followed to exit the lounge behind the victorious players. They were silent and felt down. No words could make out of how much disappointed they were in their neglect.


    "Winning the game is not only about one thing. Sure, the goal is to destroy the base. But, it comprises many things such as; attention, prediction, focus, teamwork, and coordination. There is also luck." Sofia shook her head and felt a little sympathetic to the Heavenly Noob Squad.


    She had easily grasped the lapses of the squad and how they lose. They were extremely focusing on the goal of destroying the opponent''s base. They have neglected their own defense and discarded their focus on the map.


    As for the Shadow Slayer squad, they may have extreme luck on their side! They lost their focus but the result was still in favor to them!


    "Congrats, Shadow Slayer Squad!!! Good Game!"


    "Nice game!"


    "Good Game Heavenly Noob Squad, you have done your best! Better luck next time!"


    The audience quickly cheered the Shadow Slayer squad while the others consoled the Heavenly Noob Squad. Then, their attention shifted to another set of players entering the center area of the gymnasium.


    Lee Gaming Squad vs Evil Gaming Squad


    Brent was the last to walk towards the player''s lounge. The man took his time and gestured a flying kiss to the audience and to the booth where Sofia''s team was sitting.


    "You''re right, that man is really flirting with Sofia!" Clark chuckled in amusement while watching Brent''s figure as he settled on his seat.


    "Sof, that man may be interested in you? Maybe he sees you as more than friends in the game before?" Claire playfully whispered at her.


    ''Ahhh, teenagers,'' Sofia sighed inwardly. She offered a gentle smile at Claire but she did not take her words seriously.


    Stephen who overheard their conversation directly scowled. His face turned serious and glanced at Brent. No one could read what he was thinking but Joey managed to tap his shoulder to appease the unknown feeling that was starting to bubble on his chest.


    Based on the clothes that the Lee Gaming Squad players were wearing, it was hard to deny that they were full of wealth. Rich kids. The second generation kind of wealth.


    Their jackets were from a luxurious brand especially tailored for their squad. From head to foot, these players were wearing the scent of money.


    Their pieces of jewelry were also noticeable. The gold necklace that all of them were wearing had an exquisite design that could only be seen on exclusive auctions.


    These youngsters were just inclined on playing the game even though they have an extreme fortune that could back their living. It was not their first time to join a tournament in other places.


    Some of their members had many experiences in the pro scene. Hence, most audiences wondered why they joined a measly district tournament.


    To say, such a competition was somehow out of the Lee Gaming Squad league when it comes to gaining profit! The prize could be seen as just a loose change for them.


    The audience as well as some organizers who have recognized the group were drawing some wild guesses.


    But to the other pro players, they could not be bothered by the rich squad playing a district tournament.


    In the game, it is not about rich or poor. This prize money was like a consolation to the pro players. What they value the most was the experience and the learning in every match they play.


    It is about skills and game knowledge. It is about strategies, theories, and the application of their tactics for their squad to win. No matter what place or how much was the prize of the competition, they would always value the satisfying result of the match.


    The feeling of ecstasy after winning. The trade of another learning if they were ever losing...


    Only those who really played with the extreme dedication of the game could relate to the action of the Lee Gaming Squad. Even Sofia also understood these things.


    Every squad may have its own motives in playing but at the end of the match, the feeling of satisfaction and fulfillment was of a different level. This always matters.

 Chapter 47 - Gossiping Colleague

    The live broadcast had also started and the shift of the online audience from following the romantic couples dating into the district''s Esport competition was too drastic. The views started from 10, 500 and eventually reached to more than a hundred thousands! The transition of views were beyond the expectation of both the staffs and important guest of the game. They were overjoyed with the result.


    Time flies so quickly as everyone in the tournament was having fun watching the game. The audience and even the staff were too immersed in the match as players displayed their exquisite strategies and teamwork of their gameplays.


    None of them had even noticed that the displayed clock on the gym pointed almost at noon.


    The sound of the commentator on the speakers had also changed. Their way of delivering their narration became faster than how they spoke in the earlier matches. Their tempo was almost the same as the seconds of the game timer tickled. It was as if the words were garbled as they spoke.


    In the audience area, Jing Jing also found herself enjoying the competition. She often clapped her hands when a kill happened. Though she was a neutral spectator of the competition, the match was still entertaining. Whichever side took a score, she would be happy and cheer for them.


    "Watching this competition is not bad at all. No wonder many people are coming here instead of going to fancy places for a date. Competitive Esports had been fully evolved in this district." she muttered softly while her eyes were busy observing the people around her.


    Her mobile phone suddenly lit up as another notification flashed for the incoming call. She glanced at the caller and hastily answered the call with no regard of formality at all.


    "Yes, what''s up?" Jing Jing''s voice was loud and not her usual tone.


    The other person who called quickly noticed the change of her voice, "Jing Jing, it''s me, Rica! Why are you so loud? I have an important thing to tell you!"


    "Ohh, I am not on duty. Boss Wang assigned me to get a scope on the district Esport tournament but our rival company had beat my chance. They already established an exclusive contract with the organizers of the event. So, I decided to just watch the online game tournament. I am inside the public gymnasium." Jing Jing told the other person.


    She assumed that Rica would want to discuss about their job or perhaps a gossip of some celebrity that the girl was following. Thus, she directly explained her situation to her.


    "You are in the public gym? Well, I called not because of work. I am also not on duty. This news that I am about to tell you is more relevant than our line of work!" Rica sounded on the other line.


    "Relevant than our work? Just speak directly! What is the important matter that you want to tell me that you called at my personal number?" Jing Jing asked.


    "Listen, I am having a date with Maxwell in the Couples Caf¨¦ opposite the gymnasium of our district. Guess what I saw?!" a hurried yet low volume voice directly spoke on the other line.


    Despite the low volume of Rica''s voice on the other line, Jing Jing could sense that she was frantic about whatever she had seen.


    ''What did this girl saw?'' she asked in her mind. Out of a sudden, a realization came upon Jing Jing after she processed the place that Rica mentioned...


    Couples Caf¨¦ opposite the gymnasium!


    "Aiiyaa, Rica I can totally guess that you have seen that bastard. That man was a wolf in sheep''s clothing! He betrayed me!" Jing Jing rolled her eyes.


    She waited for Rica to speak, but she heard a prolonged dead air. "Wait for a while Jing Jing," Rica muttered and the line became silent once more.


    The person on the other line was her close colleague who was aware of her relationship with Drake. It was the only person that knew her personal affairs. After the lady mentioned her location, Jing Jing quickly understood the situation that her colleague wanted to report to her.


    Rica must have seen Drake and the female staff of their rival company together in the cafe!


    "So I was saying, can you guess what I have seen here?" Rica once again asked her.


    "Damn, I already answered that question. I don''t need to guess. It was that bastard, right?" Jing Jing pouted her lips. Rica must have not listened to her earlier since the lady repeated her question to her.


    "AH, Jing Jing!!! Did you just say b-bastard? Y-you know??!" her colleague paused with a tone of disbelief before she continued, "I am talking about your boyfriend! Did this man give you an excuse of going to a meeting today or something? You did not go out together? Listen, he is cozily having a wine with a mistress sitting beside him!" Rica stressed out her tone. From the noise of running water in her background, Jing Jing could make out that the lady probably went to the comfort room just to report what she had seen.


    Jing Jing clicked her tongue and chuckled. "Your eyes are so clear that you can spot gossips easily! This friend of yours is impressed with this ability! Anyway, that bastard and I had a breakup earlier today." Jing Jing stated.


    "OH MYYY!!! You must tell me more! I will go to the gymnasium after I finished my milktea. Maxwell would not mind. I''ll tag him along." Rica said.


    "You are willing to ruin your date just to gossip about my love life?" Jing Jing playfully commented.


    "AHAHA, see you later." Rica only laughed at her before their conversation ended.


    Jing Jing shook her head and looked at the people around her. Few groups were exchanging conversation but the majority of the audience was still immersed in what was displayed on the large screen.


    She decided to change a seat and picked the most corner seat near the computer operator''s room. Her location could only see the screen and not the participants playing area. It was slightly inconvenient but, it would be easier for her to tell Rica her exact location.


    Jing Jing continued to watch and cheered at random players that she could relate to the character role that they were using.


    Watching the game somehow made her forget about everything that she had been through since that morning.


    By noontime, the tournament took an hour of a break to eat. Jing Jing remained in her seat and did not join the crowd going towards the exit.


    The audiences dispersed from the bleachers while talking about the game scenes of different squads. Some also expressed how they could not wait for the last battle of the second elimination round.


    "The organizers had really calculated the timing to drag this... well, whatever. Now, the last battle would be dragged after the lunch break. lol!" the tourist who had protested before the second elimination round started kept picking at the organizers of the event.


    As for the other audience who heard the tourist, they did not bother responding to him.


    "Ahh, I will just join this betting pool." the tourist mumbled while his fingers scrolled down the official betting site that the game organizers also arranged for the patrons of the game to predict the outcome of the tournament.

 Chapter 48 - A Sensible Colleague

    As the crowd headed towards the exit, two people just took a step at the entrance of the gymnasium. Rica was searching the exact location of Jing Jing while her boyfriend was holding a takeaway box containing their meals.


    "Jing Jing, we just entered the gym, which seat did you occupy?! I can''t see you," Maxwell heard her girlfriend asked.


    "Oh, okay," his girlfriend finished the brief phone call and smiled at him charmingly. She then hold his hands and started to look for Jing Jing.


    "Hon, this place is packed with so many people! I am surprised." Maxwell returned a loving smile at Rica and stated. Then he glanced at the people going in their opposite direction.


    "Yes. It is packed! This event is also trending online," Rica responded as the two of them walked towards the not-so-empty row of seats.


    Maxwell intertwined their fingers and let Rica walked ahead of him. The lady secretly blushed as she felt a tug on her chest by the gesture of the man.


    "Hon, Jing Jing said she is near the operator''s room. Help me look which side is it." Rica smiled gently at the man once more.


    Maxwell nodded and looked at the other side. He easily spotted the place. "There, it should be Jing Jing sitting alone." he gestured in the direction where a figure of a slim woman sitting alone.


    "Yeah, that''s her," Rica muttered as she hovered their way.


    "Jing Jing, we bought foods. Hehe, now, tell me what happened?" Rica called even though she was still a few seats away from her colleague.


    "There is really no need for the two of you to come. I felt bad that your date is now ruined." Jing Jing looked gloomy as she saw the couple fastly approaching her.


    "AHH, don''t be so overdramatic. Maxwell and I were just hanging out in the Caf¨¦ because the restaurant that we want to have a lunch date is fully booked. Now, we were just picking random places. Maxwell does not mind going here," Rica quickly dismissed Jing Jing''s complaints.


    "Yeah, I don''t mind at all." her boyfriend smile and hand her a takeaway meal.


    "See? Now, tell me what happened! Hurry!" Jing Jing demanded even before she could sit properly. Her boyfriend busied himself to open the boxes of food beside her.


    "Well, where should I start? Hmmn," Jing Jing stared at her food for so long before she looked at the couple. Then she started telling the series of events that happened earlier that day...


    Maxwell started eating but Rica was not paying attention to her food. She was listening intently as Jing Jing poured all the details for her.


    Jing Jing crossed her arms in her chest and released a deep sigh. She calmly narrated all the things that happened to her and Drake.


    On the other seat next to her, Rica was just pouncing her disposable fork onto her food while venting all her feelings.


    "So that''s what happened?! How can he easily break up like that?" Rica said as her face completely turned sour.


    "Yeaahh, well, that''s the end of us. I think he just formed a relationship with me to spy on our company. He really exerts an effort just so they could go on top." Jing Jing laughed bitterly. Such a breakup because of betrayal with no closure and the man directly got a new lover. Jing Jing felt that her worth had gone lesser.


    "AHHH! Why did you let that man tricked you? I''m sorry but I can''t just listen and do nothing. I want to go back to the caf¨¦ and beat the heal out of that Drake! What a scum! I am so angry!" Rica was fuming seeing the tinge of sadness in Jing Jing''s eyes. The woman may have a great composure of concealing her emotions but her eyes would never lie. Rica had sensed all Jing Jing''s hidden feelings. Her eyes reflected a slight bubble of misery.


    "Tsk, it was my fault alright! I just trusted him too much! Next time, I will surely do a background check before I enter into a relationship." Jing Jing grinned. She recognized her fault openly and tried to talk about it casually. She averted her gaze to the remaining people who were also eating on the seats.


    The almost empty bleachers of the gymnasium were still bustling with noises. The audience who did not leave were laughing loudly and chattering''s go louder and louder.


    The three started to eat properly and minimize their exchange of conversation. Maxwell continued to observe the two ladies and did not interrupt them.


    "I can''t believe the audacity of that man to use you! Hmmph! This is why their company would never reach the top! They will always just be second to us no matter what stunt and publicity they pull. Karma will punish them because they play dirty!" Rica continued to speak.


    Rica''s boyfriend started to rub her back as she was still venting all her disappointments of Drake. The man could only stay silent and shook his head from time to time.


    It turned out that it was his girlfriend who was more affected by the breakup than Jing Jing herself!


    "So, Jing Jing, do you want to come with us tonight? We can celebrate this Valentine''s together." Rica offered without thinking too much about what she said.


    On the other hand, Jing Jing''s face turned ashen as she heard her colleague''s words. "Are you out of your mind?!" Jing Jing glared at her with a deep frown etched on her forehead.


    "Well, you have nothing to do. We can drink a few beers and do karaoke." Rica suggested.


    "I''m fine. It''s not like I am fully invested in my relationship with Drake. I am even more upset that I have lost my chance to do a report cover for this tournament." Jing Jing crossed her legs and closed the lid of her food.


    "Indeed. The two of you rarely go out. Well, it was good riddance! You don''t deserve to be with a scum!" Rica spoke.


    "I know right! This kind of man must be discarded right away! I will just let karma settle things for me." Jing Jing sounded in agreement.


    "Alright, you can always hunt boys. Your worth is more than what you think," Rica patted Jing Jing and smiled at her.


    ~


    While these three were having discussions with love life, another group on the front seats was also teasing their leader.


    "Boss WINS, let''s meet up the Chronos squad. Just contact them and ask to eat lunch together." a man nudged WINS in his arm. He saw their expectant gaze were subjected directly to him.


    WINS scratched his head and glowered at the two members. "Now is not yet a suitable time to meet up. Their squad will be on the next battle. They might lose their focus."


    "Boss, I don''t think we will affect the performance of the Chronos squad later. Let''s just meet them and say hi. That''s all."


    "Yes! Boss WINS, they don''t look nervous at all. They should have practiced their coordination. Let''s go!"


    WINS sighed in frustration. His members were so persistent in meeting Sofia''s squad and had been bugging him to contact her even before the first 15-minute break earlier.


    "Let''s not disturb their lunch. Don''t pester me anymore or I''ll send the two of you back to our quarter in district 6. You won''t be able to see the finals of this tournament." WINS threatened and gave them an evil grin.


    "Hehe, you did not hear anything from us boss. Hehehe" The two members of FAB_Gamers squad quickly sat straight and pretended to be busy with their mobile phones.

 Chapter 49 - Lunch Meet Up (1)

    The Chronos squad stayed in their booth while discussing the overall progress of the game.


    "Ohh my gosh! There is a betting site for this tournament! Amazing!!!" Claire exclaimed while raising the screen of her phone towards Sofia.


    "Is it possible if we can we join the betting pool and place a bet for our squad? I just looked at the betting status, it had an admission for the patrons of this tournament. The stakes of Lee Gaming Squad and ours are very high." Stephen asked while scrolling down on the online site.


    "Nah, bro... not possible. I have seen the bet too. It''s impossible for us to join," Joey shook his head and waved his hand as he discouraged the idea of joining online gambling.


    "Why not? Are they banning the participants from taking the online bet?" Clark asked curiously.


    "Yes, it''s in the rules. Only the patrons of the games are allowed to join the betting. And the participating players have a percentage share of the profit in the bet if we become the champion of the tournament. So, we will earn the prize money plus the percentage of the bet." Joey discussed while glancing at the rules of the bet.


    "Let me see," Sofia muttered and held Claire''s phone.


    ''I have never gambled in my past life but this time... these amounts are good profits!'' Sofia pondered as her eyes observed the digits on the screen as it rises every minute.


    "What do you think, Sof?" Claire excitedly asked Sofia but the lady remained silent for another minute. Sofia was still exploring the rules of the betting in the tournament.


    "This is a good number," Sofia finally mumbled while reading the conditions of the activity thoroughly.


    "Yes, it is! What about we ask someone to bet for our group!? This way, we can also earn another extra. Do you know anyone who can do that for us?" Claire suggested right after she heard Sofia''s response.


    "No, let''s not gamble. We cannot afford to risk our integrity in exchange for this money," Sofia said as she returned the phone to Claire. Her voice was full of certainty as if the amount of money does not sway her.


    "But you said that this is a good number? If we ask someone to bet on us, nobody would know that we joined the betting, yeah?" Claire looked at her in the eye.


    "It''s a good number if those patrons who bet under our squad would support us. But for the money, let''s follow the game rules. There are many ways to earn money in a legal way," Sofia answered. She looked around carefully and made sure that no staff would overhear their conversation as it was a sensitive topic.


    In her past life, she had seen way bigger amounts of money than what was reflected on the betting pool. How can just six digits sway her when her net worth in the past had reached billions?


    "Woah? Really? So, this number of betters placed in our squad, this is how many patrons we have? This is crazy!" Stephen''s eyes widened in shock.


    "We might gain more later," Sofia said in a meaningful tone. Her face revealed a deep comprehension as her eyes darted towards the large screen that displayed the sponsors of the game.


    She mentally applauded the organizers of the event as she also understood why her squad had to play after lunch. With her past life experience, she somehow knew how events earned profits. It''s not just about tickets and sponsorship. This kind of patronage would also give a lot of benefits!


    Hence, she quickly comprehended that the tournament wanted to earn more on the bet by placing their match schedule after lunchtime!


    ''No wonder they did not give in to the request of the audience earlier,'' she mentally said as she remembered how the audience requested their squad to be rearranged and placed in the first battle!


    Unlike the other players who went out to have their lunch breaks, their squad was just chitchatting on their booths.


    "Guys, I am not yet hungry. But, do you want to take your lunch?" Sofia asked her members.


    "I''m good," Joey mumbled but his attention was already on his phone.


    "I''m not also hungry," Clark simply replied.


    The two other members, Claire and Stephen shook their heads and responded that they were also not hungry like her.


    "Okay, just relax. We will play beautifully on the next match," Sofia took her phone and read all the messages in her inbox.


    "Yes, we will! By the way Clark, don''t get distracted. Your brother is one of our opponents," Joey reminded Clark.


    "Heh! You should be the one who must focus! Your ex is one of our opponents!" Clark grinned.


    "Ohh yes! Speaking of ex, indeed! Joey, you will face your ex later," Stephen playfully nudged Joey after hearing Clark''s reply.


    "Don''t even start with me, bro. Or you will regret it," Joey threatened while his eyes secretly gestured at Sofia.


    "Hahaha, I am just telling you. What are you saying about regret!?" Stephen slumped his back on the sofa and glanced at Sofia. However, the lady was already scrolling her phone and did not pay attention to them.


    ~


    On the audience side, WINS noticed that his members were sulking beside him. ''These boys are acting like kids?! If I don''t agree to what they want, they would resort to being cold and silent!'' he shook his head and glared at his two companions.


    "Let''s have our lunch! Stop sulking on your seats. We will meet the Chronos squad later," WINS finally announced and stood from his seat. He could not stand the awkward atmosphere around them.


    He typed and sent a quick message to Sofia and invited her squad for a dinner meet-up.


    "Yes boss," His members replied while they silently walked behind him.


    As they left the bleachers, WINS received a text message from Sofia inviting them for lunch instead!


    "Hah! The wheel of luck has spun on our side. They are inviting us for lunch. Come on!" WINS announced and changed their direction towards the booth where Sofia''s team was.


    ~~


    On the side of the Chronos squad, Sofia quickly informed her team that they will be eating together with three other FAB_Gamers squad for their lunch. They may not be hungry, but they must show courtesy to the FAB_Gamers as the group had agreed to practice with them.


    "They are here on District 7!?" Clark jumped out of his seat. He had almost forgotten about the match as his mind focused on the fact that the FAB_Gamers would eat lunch with them.


    "Calm down, Clark," Claire mused at the sudden burst of emotion from the man.


    "Yes, hehe sorry. I just got really excited!" Clark stated and returned to his seat.

 Chapter 50 - Lunch Meet Up (2)

    "Clark, can you suggest for a good place that we should eat for lunch? If possible, pull some of your family connections. We must give due courtesy to our friends. They have helped us with our preparation in this tournament," Sofia asked Clark. Since the boy had a much higher social status than all of them, she knew that his taste in dining accommodations should be above theirs as well.


    ''Pull some of your family connections?!'' Claire mentally exclaimed. She was startled and almost dropped her jaw after listening to Sofia''s instruction. She had never heard Sofia speak like that before.


    "I have an uncle that runs a buffet restaurant. I will try to see if he can accommodate us in his place," Clark nodded his head.


    He also understood what Sofia wanted him to do. The Chronos squad had to treat the players from the FAB_Gamers squad accordingly for they had spent their times just to gave their squad a practice match. And there was part of Clark that was also excited to meet the squad and dine with them.


    "I hope we can get a reservation for lunch," Sofia mumbled.


    After a minute of contacting his uncle, Clark confirmed their restaurant reservation, "Yes, please. Lunch. Table for eight and we are on our way. Just place it under the reservation of the Chronos. Thank you! See ya! Bye!"


    "Nice!" Sofia gave a thumbs up to Clark after she heard the confirmation of their reservation.


    She was quite bothered that they might have a hard time finding a decent place since the day was also a special occasion for couples.


    Mostly, establishments would not cater to a last-minute reservation as it would be already fully booked.


    "Where are we going to meet them?" Joey asked while crossing his legs and arms.


    "They will come here. And then, we can go to the establishment together," Sofia replied. She then looked around and observed the people in the audience side.


    "I will contact my driver for our transportation," Clark announced. His excitement had gone to another level that it had influenced his face.


    "Clark, you looked flustered!" Claire pat his head and was about to mess his hair again.


    "Tsk! Stop," Clark muttered and carefully grabbed Claire''s wrist while waiting for his call to be connected.


    He stared at her as if memorizing every detailed of her face. Such gaze was too intense that Claire gulped and looked away.


    Just as Claire expected him to let go of her wrist, Clark just smirked and leaned closer to her instead. "One day, I''ll let you messed up my hair style however you want, Claire. When that day comes, you will also let me do yours..." he whispered on her ears before she heard someone spoke a greeting on his phone. Clark abruptly halted and finally paid attention on the person he was calling... "Yeah, its me..."


    Claire glanced at her tiny wrist enclosed by Clark''s fingers. She slowly pulled her hand but Clark firmly held it. "Let go of my wrist, Clark."


    "No, you''ll make my hair messy," Clark casually replied after his phone call ended.


    "I''m not going to mess up your hair," Claire stated but Clark only shook his head, refusing to release her hand.


    ~


    Stephen stood from his seat and joined Sofia from looking. "Do you know their faces?" he casually inquired.


    Sofia nearly jumped by the distance of the man''s voice behind her. She could sense that Stephen was speaking closer to her ears. Their proximity was too close that she felt her personal space was already evaded by the man.


    She looked up and confirmed her hunch. Stephen was really standing closely behind her!


    "I haven''t seen them in real life," Sofia whispered but her voice was totally clear for Stephen to hear.


    For some reason unknown to her, she could feel her heartbeat suddenly became rapid.


    "Hmmn," Stephen hummed and looked at the jawline of the lady in front of her. As if he was compelled by some kind of guts, he raised his hands and gently traced the red spots near her ears.


    "AHH! Don''t touch my pimples! You are making these civilizations worse!" Sofia pouted and glared at him. "I already told you not to touch it," she groaned and looked away.


    "Hehehe," Stephen just chuckled before he put his hands on the pocket of his jeans.


    "It should be them," Sofia told Stephen while her eyes were directed at the three figures a few meters away from them.


    "How did you know that it was them?" Stephen mumbled. The three figures were wearing shades and looked simple in his eyes. Hence, he was curious why Sofia thought that it was the famous members of the FAB_Gamers squad.


    "They looked respectable," Sofia directly answered without looking at him.


    "What?! How could those figures look respectable? They are just wearing shirts and jeans!" Stephen slightly laughed at her direct response. Somehow, he felt that Sofia''s words do not make sense in his mind.


    "I meant the air around them. Not the clothes they are wearing," Sofia playfully glared at Stephen before she waved her hands at the three figures.


    Stephen could only scratch the back of his head as he became more confused.


    The lady may have not seen the FAB_Gamers players, but Sofia had gained the ability to identify notable people despite their simplistic appearance.


    It was a skill in her past life. As a CEO, she had dealt with various kind of individuals with simple characters but were actually the owner of a grand business.


    At one glance, Sofia quickly recognized the three FAB_Gamers players even though they were still walking a few meters away from their booths.


    WINS also waved his hand and smiled at them.


    "Hi! Finally, we meet!" WINS grinned at Sofia and offered a handshake when his group arrived at their booth.


    "Yes, glad to meet you!" Sofia gave the three men a friendly smile.


    She extended her hand for the handshake, but before she could take the man''s hand, Stephen intercepted and already shook it!


    Sofia blinked her eyes and secretly nudged at Stephen using her elbow. The man ignored her signal and introduced the group instead.


    "I''m Stephen, you must be the famous WINS?! We are glad to see you, guys!" Stephen started.


    "Yes, I am. And these are my two teammates," WINS simply replied. He had taken the hint from Stephen''s gesture. The man did not need to speak his intention. It was all clear to him.


    "Hi, guys! Great performance on the first elimination round! It was so OP!" the man that was standing on WINS left side waved his hand and greeted them.


    "You guys are like monsters back there! Good teamwork!" the other man on the right side offered a friendly smile.


    "Cool! You guys are also part of our progress. It''s our honor to meet our seniors! This is Sofia, our squad leader. Then, that guy is Clark. He is a dying fan of your squad. The lady beside him is Claire and then Joey." Stephen continuously introduced them with no regard of any formality.


    "Hello," the four members including Sofia said in chorus.


    After a minute of exchanging pleasantries, they decided to head out of the gymnasium.


    "Alright! Let''s go! We made a reservation for our lunch," Sofia announced and the group proceeded towards the exit of them gymnasium.

 Chapter 51 - ROSEN CLUB

    The long lines on the hallway were now empty providing the two groups ample space to walk from side to side freely.


    A piece of soft and mellow music was played on the speakers. Then the laughter and playful yelling from the remaining audiences on the bleachers were the only distinct noises that can be heard inside the gymnasium.


    Joey and Stephen''s heads moved along with the rhythm of the music background. Their hands would sometimes sway on the air if the beat changed to a more fast-paced one. The two clearly enjoyed pop music as if they were in their own world.


    While the two were immersing themselves in the music, Clark was still holding Claire''s wrist despite the lady secretly throwing glares at him.


    "Let go of me, Clark," Claire continued to subtly demand that her wrist be free. But the boy had turned deaf to her plea. While his right hand was holding her, his left hand was also busy scrolling on his phone.


    WINS and his teammates became abnormally quiet after their introductions. Their attitude slightly surprised the members of the Chronos squad. Most pro players were just vocal about their opinion and talked a lot. But WINS seemed to be different than what they have expected.


    The members of the Chronos squad find it difficult to manage the growing silence between them. But Sofia understood their attitude. The three men may not be used to speaking as most gamers were not so interested in small talks.


    Indeed, if it was not for the 24-year old soul of Liza occupying the body of Sofia, the young lady would not appear as approachable also. Heck, she might have a hard time uttering just a few sentences to other people!


    Hence, Sofia understood their reserved character from the perspective of the young lady''s own memories. However, because of her more experienced soul, she was more relaxed if their flow of conversation would be continuous.


    ''Ahh, it appears that we are more interested in talking when it is in chats and text messages rather than in actual conversation!'' Sofia secretly thought as she made the realization based on observing each other''s behavior.


    "So, WINS, when did you guys arrive in District 7? No flight delays and jet lags?" Sofia started their conversation before their atmosphere shifted to an awkward silence.


    She also understood that since it was their first meeting, the FAB_Gamers squad members might just be observing them before they would be comfortable talking with them. Or perhaps, the three men would need a push so that they would talk at them.


    Either way, Sofia did not find it difficult to kept them entertained with small talks.


    "We just arrived earlier this morning. Thankfully, no flight delays. Just that, there was heavy highway traffic from to airport to here," WINS responded with a dry chuckle.


    ''Thankfully, she opened the conversation! Now we can start talking,'' WINS thought. For some reason, his level of confidence had depleted after introducing his group to Sofia''s team. Even his companion also felt it strange that he was quiet all of a sudden. But even WINS could not understand why!


    "It''s crazy. Even our flight is fully booked. I would say that your district is quite popular now!" one of WINS companion added.


    "Yeah, the gymnasium is full of audiences! We can''t believe it either!" Joey chimed from behind.


    "Ahh, it''s not as popular as the District 6. But, this event had really dominated the entire occasion," Sofia muttered.


    "True. Valentine''s day becomes the gamer''s day, right?" WINS said while a faint grin appeared on his face.


    The group laughed at his remarks. Indeed, the supposedly romantic day of the year became the gamer''s day!


    As the group reached the parking area, three silver cars were already waiting for them.


    ''This squad is not also simple!'' WINS pondered as he stared at the three silver cars.


    Clark was the first to step ahead of them pulling Claire behind him.


    "Ahehe... Claire and I will share," Clark stated and quickly went towards the first car.


    "Young master," the three drivers offered a customary bow at Clark before they opened the car doors of the three vehicles.


    "Uncles, please drive my friends safely," Clark politely instructed the drivers before getting inside the car.


    "See ya at the venue, guys!" Claire could only wave her other hand before the door of the car was slammed closed.


    "The reservation is under the name of Chronos. If in case we will be caught in traffic and you guys would come earlier than us, just go ahead and ask any receptionist for our reservation," Sofia waved at the three men before she also went inside the car. Stephen followed her then Joey was the last one to waved goodbye.


    WINS and his team waved back and hopped inside the last silver car.


    "Boss WINS, the Chronos squad is so grand! They are not only good in games but they are also wealthy!"


    "You are right! Even our company would just provide a shuttle for us. But the Chronos squad actually picked 3 of these silver cars! Boss WINS, this is not just a car, this is a signature status of the society!"


    The two companions of WINS quickly spoke the moment they entered the car. They did not bother concealing the amazement in their eyes.


    "This car is a limited edition! And the Chronos has three of them! Whoever is supporting behind their squad is not an ordinary person!" WINS stated. His eyes examined the interior design of the car. Even the seat belts had a signature logo design on them!


    Not long after, the car moved and was coursing into a more modernized area of the district.


    WINS used his phone to track their location. And as the car turned into a complete stop, the map on his phone revealed the address also.


    ROSEN CLUB


    "Woahh! This is an exclusive place that only members are allowed to dine!" WINS mumbled excitedly.


    The group stepped out of the car and was instantly in awe of the building''s majestic design in front of them. The building was like a yacht!


    "This is the famous ROSEN CLUB!" the driver told WINS and his companions.


    "ROSEN CLUB... I have heard of this place! But it is much cooler to be here in person!" one of WINS companions expressed as he started taking selfies of himself.

 Chapter 52 - Invasive Gaze

    "Wow, with these jackets that we are wearing, we looked so out of place!" WINS heard his companion commented.


    Indeed, the people dining inside the ROSEN CLUB were few but all of them were wearing suits and dresses. It could be seen that these people came here for formal dining.


    However, the three of them were the only people in a casual attire!


    "Hi! Welcome to the ROSEN CLUB! May I ask for your membership card please?" a man with a bright smile approached the three. Despite their jacket outfits, the tone of the receptionist was still full of respect as he asked for their membership card.


    It was known that the restaurant was not only famous because of its food but also because of its exclusivity. Only those who were rich enough would have a chance to dine in the place.


    "We are not from here. We don''t have membership cards. But, the reservation is under the name of the Chronos squad and our companions are also on their way here," WINS politely told the receptionist.


    "Oh! Sorry, this way please. Your reservation is already done, no need for membership card," the receptionist quickly stood straight and guided the three gamers to a more private room where a long table was placed.


    The other diners could not help but gave them a questioning look. Not only these three were wearing their jackets, they also have their sunglasses in their face.


    "Boss WINS, I want to wear my sunglass but I have a terrible eyebags," WINS companion whispered.


    "Even if this place is exclusive, we can''t risk and expose our identity. Just ignore them," WINS calmly said.


    To say, these three were not just ordinary pro gamers. They had been in gaming industry for quiet some time that their names were already associated with brand deals and endorsements.


    They needed to be careful going out and engaging with other establishments that were not affiliated to their sponsors. Otherwise, someone may create an issue to destroy their public image.


    The three silently followed the receptionist until they reached to a private room.


    "Respected guests, here are our menu. The blue one is our local cuisine. The red one is our regional cuisine. And for the black one, it is international cuisine. Please put a check on your order and I will be back after five minutes," the receptionist handed them three tablets containing various dishes. Each food was labeled according to its price and the font color of the dish description.


    "Thank you," WINS slightly bowed his head before looking at the food variants and settled on one of the chairs.


    "Boss WINS, what should I order? With so many choices, I don''t know what to pick!" one of WINS'' companions laughed lightly.


    The receptionist closed the door of their room gently and strode back to his post.


    "EHEM, who are those guests that you just accepted?" another receptionist asked the man.


    "They are the one that was booked by the boss earlier," the man casually answered.


    "OH! Thank goodness that you did not chase them away!" his companion muttered in surprise.


    "Why would I chase them away?" the man looked confused and questioned his colleague.


    "Ehhh, it''s because I overheard it when they answered that they have no membership card. I thought you will decline them," his companion answered with a knowing smile.


    "I am not like you. Hmph! You must be careful when dealing with these rich people. They are like sheep in wolf''s clothing. Some of them wanted to stay lowkey and pretend to look ordinary," the man stated and went straight to the telephone on his desk. He pressed a speed dial and it was automatically connected to an auto-response voicemail.


    "Rosen is not available at the moment, please leave a message after the tone... tooot!"


    "Ehh, boss it''s about the guests that you have booked. The three of them already arrived but the young master is not yet here." the man quickly reported.


    ~


    Meanwhile, the young master whom the receptionist had mentioned was still in the car having a moment with Claire''s company...


    "You do realize that your hand is still in my wrist, don''t you?" Claire spoke mildly. Their ride was caught at a red light and had to stop in the middle of the road.


    Clark looked straight on the traffic signal ahead of them and just nodded his head in acknowledgment of Claire''s query.


    He was well aware that his hand was still on the lady''s wrist. But for some reason, he does not want to let go.


    "And here I thought you are a dying fan of the FAB_Gamers squad. You could have shared a ride with your idols rather than pulling me with you." Claire continued to speak as the man sat silently next to her.


    The pedestrian lane was surprisingly almost empty. There was only a man holding a leash on a dog crossing the street. Claire''s eyes followed the figure until the man reached the opposite side of the road.


    "I could have," Clark briefly replied. At that moment, his eyes wore countless emotions but even Claire could not tell what he was thinking.


    "Then why didn''t you? It was once in a blue moon chance," Claire commented.


    "Nahh, I''m all good," Clark chuckled as his grip on her became tighter.


    "Suit yourself," Claire muttered and slumped her body on her seat. She finally stopped pulling out her wrist from the gentle grip of Clark.


    With the two of them sitting next to each other, she could easily smell the signature cologne of Clark lingering on the car. She tried to busy herself from looking outside the window but there was also nothing interesting to look at.


    ''This man is so hard to read,'' Claire mentally noted and shook her head.


    Silence descended between them for a long time. Claire''s face looked conflicted as she realized that she could not think of anything other than the masculine smell invading her nose.


    The traffic light finally switched from red to green and their car moved swiftly along with the other vehicles.


    Her eyes wandered everywhere until she secretly took a glance at the man beside her. As she looked closely, Claire saw a tinge of redness in his ears. "Why is your right ear turned red?" she curiously asked.


    "Hmmn, I''m sorting my thoughts," Clark softly responded. His eyes were still fixed in front but she could sense Clark''s finger drawing circles against her skin.


    She momentarily closed her eyes to gather all her composure. The sensation was almost overwhelming for her to feel.


    "Are you nervous about our next match? Psh! I got you bud," Claire attempted to speak normally but her voice had almost turned into a whisper. A mushy feeling started to bubble on her chest.


    "I don''t know. I am more nervous with this than the next match," Clark matched her tone.


    His fingers finally stopped moving and the overwhelming sensation was replaced with an intense burning gaze from his eyes. Claire adjusted her sitting position uncomfortably.


    She opened her mouth to speak but suddenly felt her lips went dry. Her tongue absentmindedly licked her lower lip and gently bite it to moisten the surface.


    "What are you talking about?" Claire took a courage to meet the boy''s gaze.


    Her eyes were inquisitive but the other pair of eyes looking at her was invasive.


    The more she looked at him, the more she felt that he was gradually invading something deep within her.


    Clark breathed some air and gulped. He raised his hand but was also hesitant...


    "Nevermind," Clark murmured and looked away.

 Chapter 53 - A Fragment Of Memory

    The two silver cars arrived simultaneously in front of the ROSEN CLUB establishment.


    Three receptionists quickly went out to greet their guests.


    "Young master, welcome! Honored guests, welcome!"


    Clark nodded but waved his hand and stopped the three employees from giving their group a customary bow.


    "There is no need to be so formal. I am here to have a casual lunch with my friends." he spoke and looked at Sofia.


    "You have picked a good place, Clark. This restaurant is nice," Sofia complimented him for his choice of place.


    "Yeah, it''s so high-end. Can we afford this place?!" Joey shyly interjected.


    "No worries, the place is owned by my uncle. This is his personal business that is centered with our family and relatives. Even if we insist on paying, he won''t charge us a single dime," Clark chuckled.


    Upon hearing Clark''s remark, Sofia looked slightly shocked while staring at the big letters sculpted above the entrance door of the building.


    "This is your uncle''s restaurant, Clark?" She knew the social status of Clark. The boy came from a well-respected family. There was no question of his wealth.


    What surprised her was the name of the business. Somehow, fragments of her memories flashed in her mind, and remembered the establishment.


    "Yes, the restaurant is founded by my uncle last year. It''s still new but the customers kept coming back. And the family also supports him. No biases, the service here is really commendable. My uncle trained all the staff to be respectful," Clark replied.


    "That''s really nice! One of the keys to success in this kind of business is pleasant service." Sofia smiled and started to walk ahead of them. The rest of the group followed closely while another receptionist guided them to their room.


    As they strode into the silent dining accommodation, Sofia could not help but admire the design of the establishment.


    It may just be a coincidence that Clark was connected to the owner of the business, but Sofia''s mind was already thinking of plans. With their status, they cannot own a business yet, but, they can invest!


    ''The ROSEN CLUB, if I remember correctly... in my past life this restaurant will become very successful! This would be one of the few restaurants that would get 3 stars and the highest luxury in the traditional style ''Fork and Spoon'' Michelin rating. In few more years, the name will also change to The GRAND ROSEN.'' Sofia pondered while recollecting the fragments of her memory.


    "This place is so grand," Joey slightly nudged Clark on the side.


    "Hehehe, Sofia said that we need to give due respect to the FAB_Gamers squad. So, I picked this place," Clark shyly replied as he scratched the back of his neck.


    There was no arrogance in his tone which was far from the other rich kids that Joey knew. Even Sofia also noticed how well-mannered Clark was despite his wealthy status.


    "It is like you are about to propose to your idols! Haha," Claire giggled playfully as she also observed the elite customers in the place.


    "Stop teasing me, or I will propose to you," Clark half-heartedly joked as he rolled his eyes and sighed.


    "Young master, we are here. Boss had especially reserved this room for you and your companions," the receptionist knocked on the door which hinted to the group that there was already someone inside it.


    As they entered the room, the three FAB_Gamers squad players were already waiting. Their orders were already served on the table but it was still untouched.


    "Oh, great! You have arrived us first!" Joey beamed and took the chair opposite to where WINS was seated.


    "Yes, we already place all our orders. I hope you don''t mind," WINS smiled and gestured the food on the table.


    "Ahh, that''s so thoughtful. Thanks! We don''t mind at all," Sofia replied while looking at the plates and dishes.


    "You guys don''t have any allergy or what? You may also change the food," WINS added. He was used in organizing meetings of his squad members that it had become a habit of him to ensure food arrangement. Although he was a guest, WINS was not comfortable with being served. Since the Chronos squad had chosen the venue, he took the initiative to order the food for all of them.


    "Nah, these dishes are all great! Thank you for ordering on behalf of us," Sofia clasped her hand and tried to drag the chair near her. But Stephen was quick to pull it for her instead.


    "Thanks, Steph," Sofia glanced at the man before she took a seat.


    "You''re welcome, Sof," Stephen casually murmured and sat beside her.


    "Well, you have a match later. We can''t afford to waste your time guys. Hahaha, I''m sure your strategies are ready to defeat your next opponents," WINS stated as the group started to place a portion of food on their plates.


    "AHH, yes, we had a practiced match with your squad. My team is more than ready," Sofia slightly grinned.


    Beside her, Stephen was putting a soup in her bowl. On the other side of the table, Clark and Claire were just eating silently.


    "Please eat more, my squad will become shy if you don''t get many foods. We haven''t really had our breakfast," WINS encouraged the group after noticing their smaller take of the served dishes.


    "AHAHA, don''t mind us. Please satisfy your stomach, seniors," Clark laughed and pushed the big bowl of meat towards WINS.


    The air around them had maintained a neutral ambiance as they talked about the most random things that gamers could discuss. From the updated gadgets and specs to the in-game characters and items up to the cooldowns of various skills. They also discussed other gaming strategies and the sponsors of the event.


    Not long after, the group completed their lunch with a harmonious atmosphere.


    "I was planning to invite you guys for dinner. The lunch seemed too little time to bond," WINS admitted after they exited on the establishments.


    "AHH, we may have other things to do tonight," Sofia answered. But at the back of her head, she had been thinking of getting a long sleep so that her pimples would not be severe.


    "I see, then, good luck with your match! I am ready to place my bet in your squad! Hahaha, It was a nice lunch, I hope we could meet up again if our group is free. My squad loves karaoke," WINS nodded in understanding and playfully told the group about the ongoing betting.


    "Thank you, if we have vacant schedule, we can always meet again. See you around guys!" Sofia and the Chronos squad waved their hands and watched as the three men went off.


    "They were nice," Claire commented.


    "Yes, they are. Even though WINS is famous, he is actually modest and easy to talk with," Joey added.


    "That''s why I am their fans. Their squad is the best!" Clark clapped his hands while staring at the silhouette of the silver car that had just drive away.


    "Okay, time to go back. We have 15 minutes before our match will start," Stephen glanced at his watched and announced their free time.


    "15 minutes is enough. Let''s go," Sofia stated as she entered the other vehicle. Her other companions glanced at the restaurant for the last time before they also followed Sofia''s lead.

 Chapter 54 - FAB_Gamers Evaluation

    "AHH, my stomach is full! I have eaten a lot!" WINS companion chuckled while rubbing his belly. He then adjusted his seatbelt and sat comfortably.


    "Even with my income in the pro scene, I would not be able to afford to have lunch in such a luxurious place again! Meeting the Chronos squad is a blessing!" the other companion grinned.


    In the rearview mirror, WINS looked at the five figures that were standing on the side of the pavement until their car took a turn and he lost sight of the Chronos squad members.


    "Boss WINS, are we going to fly back tonight? The director said that something came up. I think this is about the Chronos squad," one of his companions informed WINS.


    "My guess is that the director might want to invite them to join our company. What do you think, boss? Maybe he wanted us to recruit the Chronos players?" the other one commented on the possibility.


    In his mind, he thought that since the squad was trending all over the internet, it would an additional points to their reputation if Sofia''s team would be part of the FAB_Gamers.


    "I don''t think they would want to join our company. But if the director would insist, he needed to approach Sofia directly," WINS directly replied.


    "Boss, you can''t just say it like that! That is our director!"


    "Yes. The director had never approached any gamer to join our company. It''s always the players who need to apply and undergo training!"


    His companion simultaneously defended but WINS only shrugged his shoulder and glanced at the highway. "The Chronos squad is different," he softly said.


    In his mind, he had a different image whenever he thought of the squad.


    A gamer like WINS, his only vision is about the game. How to make a new team strategy. Which character would be a good to team up. The game updates and other things. This kind of idea was always in his head.


    But after meeting the players of the Chronos squad personally, he could tell that the group had a different plan. Their members may have been starting to enter the pro scene, but he could sense that it was not the limit of the group. There was something more...


    "Speaking of our director... Boss WINS, that Chronos squad leader is like the young version of the director of our company." his companion chirped after the long silence.


    "I didn''t notice. In your mind, what is their similarity?" WINS formed his lips in a line and looked at the man.


    He saw his companion tilted his head slightly and looked at the ceiling of the car. Then, the man opened his mouth but was hesitant to speak.


    After few breaths, the man finally replied, "AHHM, Well, I am not sure... but they have the same overbearing aura. I mean, Sofia is not strict but there is an air of authority around her."


    The other companion crossed his legs and instantly voiced out his opinion, "I also think the same. That Sofia, whenever she spoke, it felt like its already absolute. You know that moments in the game, when a tank would signal to dive into the tower and the allies would leap right away without questioning the command of the tank? Its weird but I can sense that vibe in her."


    "You are right, bro! That''s the exact vibe I am also imagining! I think Sofia can make any person listen to her ideas and not question her words. Although, if we compare to our director closely, Sofia is more approachable. But, I bet if she grows older, she would also have the same attitude as our director." the first one to open the subject of comparison stated in full of confidence.


    "Yes, they are still young. I mean, we are not old but they are younger than us and they already have this kind of character. It''s admirable." the second one agreed.


    WINS listened to his companion''s assessments attentively. It is not that they were judging the group, it was more like they were evaluating the characters of every member with deep respect.


    His face revealed a great amusement since it was such a rare thing to see these two members regard highly on some outsiders of their squad.


    "What else have you notice on their team?" WINS asked further.


    "The way they talk to us, it does not seem like they are hungry for success or fame. Instead, it was like they are confident to obtain success." his companion continued. A comical expression can be read on his feature while remembering their lunch conversations with the squad.


    "Huh? Isn''t that the same thing?!" the other member interjected.


    "No, remember when we were still starting to join tournaments. We are hungry for success back then. We even try harder to please our seniors so that we gain their acknowledgment. But the Chronos squad, aside from them inviting us to that high-end club, seemed to not be trying hard. They did not even open the topic of our connections and getting a possible recommendation," his companion carefully explained.


    "Mmmm, you have a point. We can actually recommend them to our director and let them join our squad. But it never came up," the other member spoke as he finally understood the difference between having the hunger for success and just plainly confidence to succeed.


    In fact, this group expected that the Chronos squad would ask a favor to their squad leader. They also knew that WINS was able to give few favors to other gamers in the past. It was just common for other players to ask for help from the seniors to build a fanbase and public image.


    FAB_Gamers could have boosted the Chronos squad''s prestige.


    But no one in their team had opened a conversation of such a thing. All they talked about was so random and would not gain benefits to them!


    It was almost like they were close friends that they had just managed to assemble a lunch after not seeing for a long time.


    If only they knew how little their connections were compared to the past life of the soul inside Sofia, they would definitely not dare mentioned such trivial things!


    "That group, they have a promising character and they have skills! I almost envy how they can have that solid confidence despite being a newbie. If they can withstand the harshness of being a public figure, they would surely surpass us. But if they cannot bear the crudeness of this industry, I am certain that they could find another path to be successful," WINS said after their car halted on the parking space of the public gymnasium.


    "Thank you for driving us, uncle," he added before his feet stepped out of the car.


    "It is part of my duty, sir. Have a great day ahead!" the driver politely replied before he started the engine of the car and left the place.

 Chapter 55 - Last Minutes Of Lunch Break

    "Ladies and gentlemen, our most anticipated round is about to start! In the next few minutes, we will witness the Chronos squad vs Vultramites squad fight in the regular 5 vs 5 map! Are you ready?" the host of the tournament returned to in front of the stage and everyone settled in on their seats. A piece of nice soft-rock music was playing in the background that added the hype ambiance of the entire place.


    "Yes, we are ready!!!"


    "YES!!! SUPER READY!"


    "Bring it on! Woohoohhh!"


    A round of applause followed after by the yells and cheers resounded on the bleacher''s side as the audience clapped their hands gleefully.


    Their excitement seemed to have no end!


    After the lunch break, all the audience''s energy was restored to a highest level. Their voices could even be heard by the people outside the gym!


    The host took a moment to beam a smile and looked at the bleachers with amusement on his face. Some audiences were even dancing in their seats while others were waving balloons in their hands.


    "That''s great! Participants can now go to their respective lounge to prepare! I hope that our players have eaten plenty so that their stamina and mental strength won''t get exhausted easily! Hehehe," the host joked and instructed the participants to get into the center of the gym.


    "I bet this team would parry not only on their skills but also on their strategies!" the host added.


    The two commentators also went back to their post and signaled the host that they are ready. The host slightly nodded at them before he shifted his gaze towards the booths of the players.


    James was the first to get out of the Vultramites squad booth but his face was void with any enthusiasm. For some reason, he did not even spare a single smile nor looked at the audience side. His overall expression looked uneasy!


    A deep frown was etched on his forehead and his lips had formed into a line. "Where the heck did they go?" he muttered while checking his phone.


    "You okay, man?" one of his teammates asked him. His anxiety was too visible to be seen. But what is he anxious all about?


    "Yes, I''m okay. Don''t mind me, I was just having sudden thoughts," he reasoned and continued to walk towards the lounge.


    "AHH, don''t worry! You said that your brother is a newbie, right? There is no way he would resist your attacks later," his companion quickly consoled him while assuming that James was anxious of their match.


    "Hmmn, let''s be alert, even if my brother is a newbie, his companions are real monsters in this game! They have displayed their skills, it would be hard to counter them!" Clark emphasized.


    "True, but their weakness is already exposed. It would be easy to aim your brother in the early game and end the match as quick as we can!" the companion smiled and reminded them of their plans.


    As far as their plans goes, they would need to rely on the early game to be victorious!


    At least, if they push and obtain victory before their opponent can build their items, then, they would surely win!


    As they arrived at their lounge, the Vultramites players quickly logged in to their account on the device. They were all focused on the devices on their hand that only James was glancing at the booth of the Chronos squad from time to time.


    The host on the stage suddenly furrowed his brows. Only the Vultramites squad players were visible in the area! He had not seen any members of the Chronos squad at all!


    "The Chronos squad players are not yet in their booths?" the host announced in confusion when he maintained his gaze at the empty booth. There were still a few minutes left before the clock hits at exactly 1 PM but their opponents have gone to their lounge already.


    "Ehem! Well, it looks like the players of the Vultramites squad are getting ready but their opponents are not yet in the vicinity. Hehe, anyway, we have time, before we start let me acknowledge our sponsors for today''s tournament. Ehem! This tournament would not be successful without the help of our following sponsors... " the host quickly inserted and mentioned all the sponsors of the tournament while different brand logos were flashed on the large screen.


    "They''re not here yet... They should be here at this time," WINS was slightly worried while looking at the entrance hall of the gym. It had been ten minutes after they returned to the gym. In his calculation, Sofia and her companions should have been there also.


    The voice of the host in the background mentioning the brands and company names had not yet ended.


    WINS companions also looked troubled. Why did the Chronos squad had not yet arrived? Such question was shared by their thoughts.


    "Boss WINS, do you think they were caught up in a traffic accident, no? I hope not!"


    WINS face turned serious. He suddenly felt a pang of guilt burst on his chest. It was him who had contacted Sofia.


    If something went wrong and they failed to show up, they would surely be disqualified! Tournaments would never wait for the participants to start a match. If they no one would show-up on the time of their match, it would be an auto defeat!


    WINS hand started to get sweaty as panic began to envelop him.


    He took his phone and quickly typed an email to be sent to Sofia. But before he could hit the send button, the Chronos squad appeared on the entrance door.


    "Oh! Nice! They are here! Phew!" WINS chuckled and sighed in relief.


    It was the same time as the host finished announcing the sponsors of the tournament as well.


    "Oh! The Chronos squad is here! Please proceed to the respective lounge and prepare. The match will start at exactly 1 PM," the host breathed some air and looked relaxed.


    "YEY!!! GO CHRONOS SQUAD!!!"


    "ASSASSIN USER, YOU ARE MY IDOL!"


    The audience erupted with their cheers once more while watching as Sofia and her team went straight to the center of the gym.


    "Hehe, what an entrance! For a minute, I thought they would be disqualified!" one of the commentators told his companion.


    "It would be a lucky day for the Vultramites squad! This Chronos squad players have solid potentials! But if they get disqualified, then, it is a free winning pass for their opponent in this round!" the other commentator smirked as he adjusted his sitting position to a more comfortable one.

 Chapter 56 - The Chronos Squad Vs Vultramites Squad(1)

    The commentators dragged their mouse and quickly connected their microphones to the speakers. Then, the host finally left the stage which gave them a hint to take over the game.


    The arrow of the clock finally pointed at exactly 1:00PM.


    The players were also settled on their lounge and are ready for their battle. All eyes were in front of the devices as the countdown appeared on their screen.


    "Check, check, test... Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen! We are back to the tournament of the second elimination round. We are all excited to see this! This is the last battle before we can proceed to the third elimination round! The squads that would be fighting for their chance to become the potential champion of this tournament are the Vultramites squad and the Chronos squad!"


    The entire crowd became silent as the commentator started to make the introduction for the match.


    On the large screen, the audience could see that each of the squad was starting to choose their role characters to be used on their current match.


    The lineup was quickly completed in just a few seconds.


    The Chronos Squad: tank, marksman, assassin, mage, and fighter.


    vs.


    Vultramites Squad: tank-support, marksman, assassin, mage, and fighter.


    The roles were almost similar but the characters and their skills were very different.


    For instance, the tank, CEO UNRIVALED was capable of casting a hook and grabbing the enemies towards his side. This skill is not hard to deliver and would not need to be mastered. The mastery was easy but to get the perfect timing on when to cast the hook was the challenging part of its user!


    Anyone can cast a hook but not everyone can use it effectively.


    On the side of the Vultramites'' tank-support character, it was a beast-looking monster with a sturdy body holding a great and huge mallet. There was also a half a meter chain attached to its right foot.


    Its skill was to leap forward and stomp its left foot to the ground, swaying the chain in the process. This skill has a double effect of creating an earthquake to the portion of the ground where the foot of the beast descended.


    And the chain would give extra damage if an opponent would be hit. Then, the beast could also smash its weapon to the ground. It has a crowd control ability that would make the opponents stunned for a long time if they were caught on the tank-support range, giving the teammates a chance to annihilate an opponent in an instant!


    Compared to the character CEO UNRIVALED, the tank of the Vultramites squad has more special skills. But because of its role as a half tank and half support, the beast was not so resistant to magic damage making it vulnerable to any mage skills.


    "Hmmm," the operator in the computer room hummed while his eyes were focused on the three monitors in front of him. He blinked several times as he made multiple right clicks on his mouse. Then other several left clicks followed.


    Having to look into multiple screens may seem to be troublesome, but for this operator, it was just a basic and easy task.


    Behind the operator, the two tech support staff were also sitting and were waiting for the game to start.


    The timer started to count from 20 seconds down to zero and everyone on the audience side peered carefully at the large screen until the map of the game appeared and the characters were instantly transported on each of their base.


    The players on the center lounge were mentally counting the numbers that were reflected on their screens while moving swiftly to a different location.


    On the jungle area, Claire quickly waited for the monsters to be spawned. Her assassin character was hiding on the grass while the game match started to count.


    Joey maneuvered his fighter and went straight towards the top lane. Meanwhile, Stephen went directly to the bottom lane.


    Their tank and mage character sprinted and crossed the river of the map and went to hide in the jungle area of their opponents. Their middle lane was left open for any attacks.


    But it was just a few seconds after the match started. Hence, there would be not much of a damage from their opponent if they decided to attack their tower first.


    The gaming background music gave everybody the kind of excitement and anticipation more and more intense.


    Half a minute passed and the tiny soldiers were spawned on their base. And these creeps started marching from each side of the lanes to their opponent''s territories.


    The viewer''s perspective shifted and was focused on the Chronos tank and mage characters hiding on the grass. It was clear that Sofia and Clark were aiming for a jungle steal! They were just waiting for their opponent to deal damage to the NPC.


    Not long after, James'' marksman character together with the tank also appeared a few feet away from where Sofia and Clark were hiding.


    Just as they have expected, their opponents would eventually go farming.


    As the jungle monster was finally spawned, the sound of a bullet and the mallet of the tank and marksman could be heard from the speakers loudly.


    These characters started to hit the jungle monster with their initial skills and passive attacks.


    "Hehe," some audience giggled on their seats and even the commentators could not help but smile at the two characters of the Chronos squad.


    The marksman and the tank user of the Vultramites squad were completely oblivious that their opponent were just a few feet away from them!


    The HP of the NPC decreased rapidly and just as the Vultramite''s marksman was about to get the last hit, Sofia''s thumb gently pressed a skill on her mobile screen. The movement was too simple but inside the game, it meant trouble to her opponents.


    A hook appeared from the grass pulling the dying monster away from the marksman''s attack! Then, the mage cast a skill to stun the NPC and got the last hit in the process!


    "WOOAHH!!!"


    "NICEE!!"


    The audience clapped but remained attentive to all the movements on the map.


    James took a sharp breath, clicked his tongue, and felt conflicted.


    Since Sofia and Clark''s character arrived earlier and had successfully concealed their presence on the grass, he did not expect them to steal the last hit of the jungle monster to be taken away all the advantages by Clark.


    James'' younger brother was just a newbie and the Vultramites squad had looked down on his gaming skills greatly. Clark does not have a fast hand on casting his skills. But if Sofia''s tank would help this mage user to build his character in the early minutes of the game, all their assumptions about him as having a green hand would be proven wrong.


    The commentators also looked at the screen where a replay of these four characters'' interactions was giving a slow mode.


    The HP of the jungle monster and the time when Sofia delivered her hook towards her target were given emphasis. And everyone had a glint of admiration in their eyes.


    "That was great timing right there! The hook was cast not to kill the jungle monster, but to just bring it to her side so that the ally mage can finish it off! Well done to CEO UNRIVALLED! This tank had been displaying real skills to us!" one of the commentators quickly complemented and explained the purpose and timing of Sofia''s attack.


    "That''s true! This will be so hard for the marksman user of the Vultramites squad to increase the level and overall stats of his character if the Chronos tank and the mage are guarding the jungle, what do you say?" the other commentator spared no time to speak his analysis also.


    "Yeah, right! Based on these tactics, there is no doubt that the marksman is the core of the Vultramites squad and not their assassin. But on the Chronos squad, it is hard to identify who is their core! Hahaha! At least, at this point, we cannot distinguish their core yet. Look, their marksman is just on the bottom lane! Their tank and mage seemed to stick in a duo style. So, it makes me wonder if the mage is the core? or is it their assassin?" the first commentator speculated.


    Indeed, on the Vultramites side, their assassin character was battling against Stephen''s marksman on the lane. Only their marksman and tank were farming on their territory!


    "They need to perhaps rally and take down the tank and mage of the Chronos squad so that they can benefit on their jungle! Otherwise, this mage and his stunning effect would also be troublesome to deal with if he would level up first!" the other commentator followed.

 Chapter 57 - The Chronos Squad Vs Vultramites Squad(2)

    "Lots of players look down on mage role because the defense of these character is weak, but if the allies give them a good protection, their damage will be truly seen."


    "Ahhh, mages are also overpowered characters when they gain early advantages. I can see the pattern of the Chronos squad strategy. See? Their opponent''s tank has very little resistance to magical attack... I think they are capitalizing this advantage and let their mage build an item first! Let''s see what will happen next!" the commentator finished his speculation and continued to watch the game. Some strategies of both squads were easily read by them and even the audience could also make their own considerations.


    In the map, after Clark''s character got the jungle monster, the Vultramites players did not bother to pursue and attack the thief opponents. One jungle cannot necessarily decide the result of the whole game.


    In fact, these two Vultramites characters were quick to retreat as their HP had decreased from the NPC''s damage. One more hook from Sofia and their characters would be finished!


    Luckily for them, the cooldown of Sofia''s hook was still longer as her character had not gained any item. Hence, the cooldown reduction was not yet triggered by her character.


    A few more seconds, the two Vultramites characters successfully teleported and arrived on their base. Their HP and MP bars quickly charged back to full recovery.


    At the same time, they took a chance to examine every lane on the map and see the arrangements of their opponents.


    "I didn''t see them on the grass... Damn! I should have known better." James shook his head and mumbled in annoyance. The feeling of having all his effort and time spent to lessen the HP of the NPC being wasted was no joke. It was irritating!


    "Me too, damn! The tank user is really crafty! I thought those two would stay in mid to clear the creeps! Ahh, who would have thought that the tank would accompany that mage to harass us and steal our jungle?!" his teammate supported James as their characters sprinted towards the middle lane.


    Both marksman user and tank user lamented but they had to move forward and seek a different way to level up their characters.


    By then, Claire was almost done farming in their jungle territory also. She made a quick glance to the bottom lane and saw their marksman was having a one on one battle with the assassin opponent.


    The two were both on a defensive mode while clearing the creeps. Although assassins and marksmen characters were usually on the aggressive role for dealing damage, in the early minutes of the game, they have to be careful and avoid getting deaths.


    The first blood or the first death of the game would be more crucial than the jungle monster being stolen. Hence, the bottom lane players were very passive in clearing the creeps.


    "Ehem," Claire subconsciously cleared her throat and pressed the map at the top lane to see which opponents were present there.


    Her eyes were not almost blinking while she was fully immersed inside the game.


    The map would easily provide her the location of her allies but some opponents were not displayed on it. After her quick glimpse of both lanes, she decided to move her character towards the top lane.


    On the top lane, Joey was facing against the mage and fighter. He had remained alongside the tower area and casually kill the creeps once they reached near him.


    "Coward," the female player of the Vultramites squad glared at Joey''s character as if the opponent could hear her.


    "Your ex is paying extra caution towards us, heh!" her companion on the top lane scowled seeing that the Chronos fighter would not even go out of the tower.


    As an experienced gamer and was also familiar with all the available characters of the game, Joey knew that it would be dangerous to get out of the tower''s range protection.


    Game awareness was extremely necessary to all players.


    His role may be a fighter and his character had no problem facing the opponents on close combat attacks, but the two opponents lining against him right now was a good counter combo for his character.


    With the mage opponent, Joey knew that if he does not rely on the tower''s defensive mechanism, the mage could easily immobilize his character, and a few passive attacks from its companion would be enough to drain his HP. He would be executed by the other fighter right away!


    This was because he had no solid item build yet for his character. His damage and resistance were still at a low level and it would not be enough to go 1 vs 2 combat.


    At least, not yet. But on the late game, it would be a different scenario.


    "What a strange arrangement of their members! They are really giving priority with their mage," WINS also stated as he comfortably sat. A small can of cold coffee was in his hand and he was casually drinking while watching the game.


    Even as early as just a minute of the game, he could already guess that Sofia''s tank would stick to Clark''s mage. Which he found it strange since most tank user would help the marksman to level up.


    "It is really weird. Maybe it is because the mage is not so good?"


    "Not really! That mage user may not have good hand speed... But, hmmmn, I think they will use him as the key role to win this match. Look at the inventory of the mage. These fragments of items are used to burst his magic damage."


    WINS nodded after listening to his companions. He had already spotted the items of the players and also noticed the fragments for a burst of magic damage.


    "It had to be that strategy. The skill of the Chronos mage is capable of summoning three elemental attacks: wind, fire, and water. With an item that gives burst magic damage..." WINS trailed with a visible smirk on his lips. He didn''t need to speak the rest of his analysis. His companion can already picture out!


    To say, if Clark''s mage could build this item before the opponent''s tank could buy an item for magic resistance, his character would be able to eat the opponent in just one combo!


    Such a thing was never seen by most of the spectators but no one dare to criticize or look down on their arrangement.

 Chapter 58 - The Chronos Squad Vs Vutramites Squad (3)

    The crude style in online gaming was not an unusual one to see, especially on the pro scene.


    There were many ways to play crudely and give the opponent a rough time in leveling their characters by obstructing its EXP gains.


    One of the many styles was what Joey was facing on the top lane.


    He was being harassed by the mage and fighter user of the Vultramites squad!


    Though, harassment in this kind of game was one effective tactic that could make an opponent not only irritated but also lose control of their patience. It could be seen as part of an overall gaming strategy to annoy their opponents.


    Some would even go to the extent of feeling enrage when they were constantly getting harassed!


    But, not Joey!


    Despite the two characters guarding near the tower, waiting for him to get out of its protective range, Joey did not falter. He even made several round movements of his left thumb to show his character was just waiting and to provoke his opponents to go in their tower!


    The mage and fighter were patrolling after they were able to clear the wave of creeps.


    Joey would not also let the opponent''s creeps go wasted. He will just move a little to clear these small soldiers and then retreat his character back to the tower!


    As the seconds became minutes, the level of impatience became higher as well.


    "Hehe," Joey only chuckled while watching at the two characters in the front of his screen. He was not pressured by their harassment.


    To say, it was a psychological struggle on the top lane. Their battle was about whether who would get impatient or who would get pressured first. Who would give in to their frustration?


    Clearly, Joey was winning the contest of their psychological pressure. His expression remained calm and composed while looking at the screen.


    Meanwhile, on the side of the Vultramites squad, the mage user was about to lose her cool. She had been throwing mild yet hateful slurs on the screen of her mobile device as if her opponent could hear her insults.


    "Are you still a man? Get out there, b*tch!"


    "Coward! Tsk!!!"


    Such kind of remarks were subtly whispered by the mage user while throwing her passive attacks towards Joey''s character. However, there was just very little damage that she could inflict by the passive attack.


    "Hahaha," Joey suddenly laughed. If these users were probably near each other, one of them would instantly get enrage. Joey''s laughter could be heard as a sarcastic response to the verbal insults of the mage user.


    The only problem, they were on a different lounge and could not communicate with their opponent in real life. So, Joey was oblivious by the hateful remarks of his enemy at all!


    However, this time, his laughter was not about the amusement for the two opponents.


    No! His reasons for laughing were completely different.


    It was because of excitement. Something had caught his eye to make his enthusiasm surged up.


    Joey''s grinned became wider. Why is he excited? Simply because he had seen the movement of Claire''s assassin character going towards his lane.


    But this assassin was going to encircle her enemies by advancing to their back.


    Claire went to the river then, she hastily moved while her in-game character presence became invisible by the use of stealth.


    Once the stealth was activated, the assassin was completely concealed even though it was moving in the map.


    And its movement was faster than any ordinary boots!


    If one would look closer at her inventory, there were actually two boots for a speed boost on there!


    The operator was also quick to notice this anomaly of speed and immediately zoom the items in Claire''s inventory.


    Upon seeing the large screen that displayed Claire''s items, the audience quickly made a subtle remark out of her build.


    "Ahhh, wow! That insane speed for two boots!"


    "It works for an assassin to burst their speed in the early game to make farming faster. It actually makes more sense than getting an item fragments!"


    "Double boots in the pro scene?"


    "That''s a clever move! She can always sell the boots later."


    As the audience continued to discuss their opinions of which items to buy during the early minute of the match, the screen display back to the top lane where the assassin was about to arrive...


    Joey cleared his throat as an evil smile crept on his face while moving his character near the wall. All he need was perfect timing... he had to wait for a few more seconds for Claire to get nearer.


    Attack!


    As soon as the signal appeared on his screen, Joey''s fighter dashed sideward and kicked the mage. There was no hesitation in his action. It was the right time for him to deliver the attack.


    The two opponents were startled by his sudden change of aggression, but, they have managed to catch him by the mage''s ability to stun.


    Joey''s screen showed that all his skill had turned gray, as his character was immobilized for a few seconds.


    "Hahaha," Joey still laughed once again even though he was stunned. He was not bothered by his enemies combo anymore. He was certain that Claire''s assassin would arrive on time!


    On the other side, these two opponents were also certain to drain his HP in just a matter of time!


    Certainties!


    Both sides were holding an assurance of getting the first kill. However, who''s side would get the first blood?


    As the mage user of the Vultramites squad had successfully countered Joey''s kick, they were eager to make another attack. The pressed their skill set however, it did not function! Before they could throw a follow-up strike to their target, the mage and fighter characters were petrified on the spot!


    A unified gasp echoed on the bleachers as almost all the audience were awed by the sudden assault.


    They have seen Claire''s assassin going towards the top lane, but they have not expected her to use her ability to stop the movements of the two characters as her first attack.


    "AHHH! Nice!"


    "Good coordination!"


    The audience clapped briefly and then focused back to the top lane confrontation.


    "Huh?" the two players of the Vultramites squad muttered in confusion. Before they could completely process what had caused their character to stiffened and unable to move, the assassin from Chronos squad emerged behind them.


    "Sh*t! Back! Back!" the mage user repeatedly mumbled her words in panic. Then her finger pressed the signal for them to get back to their towers.


    Retreat!


    The signal quickly displayed on each of their screens for them to retreat after noticing that there were two Chronos players on the top lane.


    These two had been focusing on harassing Joey that they did not notice when the assassin appeared behind them.


    As they tried to move their characters, Joey''s stun was also over. Now, he let his fighter ran towards the mage user...


    The fighter user of the Vutramites squad tried to intercept but Claire was also targeting him!


    There was no escape route!


    One of the commentators leaned forward and quickly analyze the situation.


    "We are finally witnessing a clash, folks! The very first actual clash of this match! The Chronos players on the top lane seemed to get the advantage in so many terms. They have managed to catch their enemies off-guard. And the Vutramites squad players were still far from their towers! We are now anticipating the first blood! Is it happening now?!"

 Chapter 59 - The Chronos Squad Vs Vultramites Squad (4)

    "Tsk! I see... I see. This assassin is shamelessly boosting her movement speed! What a noob!" the fighter user gritted his teeth as soon as his line of sight went towards the inventory of the assassin''s character.


    He immediately noticed the two boots on the inventory of the assassin were both for the movement speed.


    There were several boots that made available for them to purchase depending on what role they are playing in the match. The benefits of the boots differs greatly. Whilst some can give movement speed, other would focus on cool down effect and there is also for attack speed, MP regeneration, and many more.


    These varieties existed because all characters had different dynamics and skills.


    As for this fighter user, the item that Claire had pick to place in her inventory was obviously not appropriate for her role... or so he thought?


    "It''s just a movement speed. Bah! I might not be able to dodge the attack skills that this assassin is throwing at me, but, hehehe... there is really no need for me to be too concerned because of the small damage it caused for my HP to decrease!" the fighter user scowled deeper.


    At first, he slightly panicked as the assassin arrived on the top lane but after knowing that her damage was not sufficient to kill him in one combo, he felt relaxed.


    He even made his character abruptly turned around in a swirling motion to emphasize that he could not care less about the attack he was taking!


    The swirling movement of the character did not miss Claire''s sight or to the spectators point of view. They all witnessed this provocative action.


    "Ohhh my, hehehe... Okay, since you want to die badly, thank you for the kill!" Claire who was directly challenged by the action pouted and made a meaningful comment.


    Thank you for the kill!


    She knew that there was an ugly meaning behind the movement of her opponent... and she was determined to prove that she was not someone that he could easily provoke!


    Although some audience laughed at this action as they could easily see this movement as a casual or playful provocation, in Claire''s eyes, it was only a poor display of a fake sense of ability. A great opportunity to get her first kill!


    Undeniably, countless players, ordinary or pro had used this action at some point in their usual games.


    It was the kind of movement purposely done to piss off the enemy. To prove a point that the opponent was not something to be afraid of.


    But in fact, it would also hinder the escape... which was not ideal in their current situation.


    Based on the top lane progress, the fighter user had not only ridiculed his opponent''s items openly, but he also called her a newbie... and he was flaunting loftily that he could totally withstand its attack!


    Such considerations cannot be guaranteed!


    As for Claire, a flash of heat rose in her face and she continued attacking the opponent alternating her passive skill and the first skill. Even if her damage was not great, she managed to take the half HP of the fighter.


    After few more seconds, the fighter user decided to proceed to retreat. He just wanted to taunt the assassin user, or perhaps, mock Claire''s choice of items! To let her know that the items in her inventory were totally useless against him!


    "What can these two boots do to me? Hehe, the small damage from this noob player cannot drain my HP for sure!" he continued to mutter.


    At this point, the fighter user of the Vultramites squads was still certain that he can escape from the assassins'' pursuit. He was confident that the opponent would not be able to make a kill.


    As the sounds of clashing became louder, the fighter user intentionally stood for a few seconds in front of Claire. As if telling the character to ''come and catch me!''


    The sound of in-game weapon background effects could be heard all over the gym giving all their spectators the vibe of suspense...


    Then, the four characters were directly zoomed in on the large screen.


    The side of the Chronos squad playing aggressively, chasing their retreating opponents!


    Then, the perspective was switched to the Vultramites side, taunting as they were escaping from their advancing enemies!


    "A taunting has been made by the fighter of Vultramites squad towards the assassin of the Chronos squad! Hmmn, what would be the result? And just a few distance of this two players, the Chronos fighter is also chasing the mage opponent!" one commentator spoke while everybody silently observed the confrontation.


    Some skeptical audience could not help but also noticed the lack of damage by both Chronos squad players.


    It was given that the fighter never got a chance to build his item as he was harassed by the two opponents.


    But for some watchers, the assassin''s lack of damage was not reasonable at all! While others appreciate her boosting of movement speed, some did not approve of it!


    "The assassin''s damage is not enough! She should have just picked a fragment item than another boots to boost her speed."


    "That''s what I also felt. But, we can never know what these players are thinking. I think this assassin user knows what she is doing!"


    "Yes, I''ve seen her first blood on the first elimination round. I could tell that she is an expert assassin user, but for this match, I''m starting to doubt my early judgment! Who would get two boots? Really?"


    "It''s her gameplay. Don''t question what item she is picking for her character!"


    On the middle side of the bleachers, two audiences started to have an argument.


    These two were strangers, yet, could be seen as assassin users. One was holding a phone in his right hand and the back cover of this phone displayed a different assassin character.


    The other person arguing was not holding anything. Yet, the hoddie that he was wearing showed a line of status statements from another assassin character!


    Despite being strangers, they have the common knowledge of the dynamics when picking the assassin role. Thus, they could not help but voiced their opinions.


    However, both these assassin users could not come into terms of whether the two boots in Claire''s inventory were beneficial or not.


    "Shhh!" the audience sitting in front of them hastily reprimanded the two and gestured to be quiet, and stop their noises.


    Their face looked unwilling to drop their little debate, nonetheless, they have no choice. The audience area had become quiet and only their voices could be heard if they continue arguing.


    As the tension of the audience quickly disappeared, the tension inside the game, particularly on the top lane had immediately surged up. And it was felt by everyone watching the clash.


    It was more than just the suspense of witnessing the First Blood. There was something more...


    Even though these audiences were just watching, they had felt a sudden sense of relief for Joey''s character to be aided by Claire''s assassin. They also felt that the fighter user of the Vultramites squad was too arrogant!


    In the early game or even during the late game, the display of arrogance could be destructive. Most gamers had experienced getting embarrassment and shame for being arrogant in the game.


    May it be an arrogant action or just a bragging statement, none of it would give good benefits for their character. But it could produce a unique trademark that only they could make and let their audience remember their name because of such behavior.


    Those who felt overjoyed by the development in the top lane were the audience that had been paying attention specifically to Joey. Most of them were using a fighter role. Hence, they can instantly relate to how troublesome it would be to be targeted by the enemy.


    They have been watching how Joey was being harassed by the two opponents since the start of the match. Now that the table was turned, they could not help but clap in contentment.

 Chapter 60 - The Chronos Squad Vs Vultramites Squad (5)

    With the simultaneous passive attacks from Claire''s assassin, the fighter of the Vultramite squad found no way to run!


    He thought that the double boots were useless items, but now, he came in full understanding of the practical use of the item that Claire picked. No matter if he turned left or right, the assassin would quickly catch up!


    The speed boost was troublesome to deal!


    His struggle was not because the attack from Claire''s assassin had tremendous damage to his character! No! In fact, the assassin lacked damage as she prioritized purchasing the boots.


    Passive attacks have little damage on the enemies. However, under the expertise of Claire, she was still able to maximize the pressure that her enemy felt.


    She was not relying on the damage she could deal towards the opponent, instead, it was on the speed! She could easily chase her target!


    This was the main reason she picked the two boots. While others may think that her items were not good, Claire found it practical for chasing.


    As long as she could manage to block any path the opponent, her small damage was no longer an issue!


    "Damn! How can this be?! This is not possible!" the fighter user lamented when the situation became completely out of his proportion.


    It was totally not within his expectation at all! With the multiplied speed of his enemy, his character extremely fell on the disadvantage side!


    He could only sigh while trying his best to avoid the attacks of the assassin. But it was still futile... his HP fell short to a very small percentage... until the first blood was announced on the system.


    At the same time, Joey delivered a final blow to his target and got the second kill.


    "I should have escaped earlier," the man who took the first death muttered in regret. All he wanted to was was taunt his opponent, unfortunately, he ended up dying!


    The audience quickly clapped their hands in awe.


    "That is the assassin''s supremacy!"


    "AHHH! It was sooo good to see that first blood! Thought it was achingly slow, still, the chasing made it possible!"


    With the death of their two opponents, the top lane became open. Claire and Joey immediately cleared up the creeps and attacked the first defense tower.


    As soon as the tower was destroyed, they were about to retreat, however, another notification appeared on their screen...


    ATTACK!


    The order came from their tank, and the target of their attack was the second defense tower on the top lane.


    Proceed to attack!


    They quickly understood, Sofia intended to let them push the top lane!


    In just a matter of another minute, the second defensive tower of the Vultramites squad was fallen in the hands of Claire and Joey!


    Now, all their ultimate skills were available to use. With the kills and towers that they had eliminated, their character stats surged up and the gold, as well as EXP earnings, grew quickly.


    And it does not stop there!


    After the two destroyed their opponent''s second defense towers, they saw Sofia and Clark going towards the top lane.


    Another signal appeared as an order to attack the final defense tower! It was the third tower that was protecting the base!


    "They are pushing rapidly!"


    "What? They will continue to push the top lane?!"


    The audience does not know how to react as they followed the progress of the match. It just never happened that a team would push and destroy three towers successively for an early game.


    In this match, the Chronos squad seemed to go directly for victory?


    "My gosh, are they going to end the match quickly?! The second wave of the jungle has not even respawned yet!"


    There was no doubt, the third tower became their next target, leaving all the Vultramites squad felt at loss! Was it real? Their team did plan to make use of the early game so that the Chronos squad would not gain an advantage of the match. They long to get the early victory in the quickest possible way! But, it turned out that this plan was also used against them!


    No matter how unbelievable it was, it was indeed the plan of the Chronos squad!


    Stephen''s marksman was teleporting directly to the top lane where Joey''s fighter and Claire''s mage were marching. Sofia''s tank and Clark''s mage hastily moved in the same direction.


    It was a full rally!


    They would not display their ability but, they would showcase their dominance! The authority by proving that they could end the match in an easy and quick way!


    "First, it was the earliest first blood in the tournament. So far the Chronos assasin is the candidate holding this title. Now, if I am not mistaken, they would also take the earliest conquered battle!?" the commentator finally made his analysis known to the audience.


    Speaking of titles, it was a separate acknowledgment other than being the champion of the tournament.


    There are three special titles that the game organizers had prepared and emphasized on their rules. Two of these titles were called The Supreme Annihilator and The Grand Conqueror.


    The Supreme Exterminator was a title for an individual player who can execute the earliest first blood in the overall match. It does not matter if it was an elimination round or a final round. The calculations were done by the use of a match timer and would be recorded by game organizers.


    On the other hand, the Grand Conqueror was a team title for the squad who would achieve the quickest victory of the match for a 5 v 5 map.


    The prizes of these titles were honorary cash, an in-game badge, and exclusive skin.


    As for the third title of the tournament, it was for the squad that got the most overall kills after the tournament in a single match. The title is called the Best Annihilator.


    "Their teamwork is admirable. They only need one signal from their tank to gather and even the marksman is about to leave the bottom lane! That''s one single call! Amazing!" the other commentator emphasized as he looked at the marksman teleporting on the top lane.


    "I think the tank pretty made a good consideration here! She delivered the signal to gather her teammates after all the creeps were cleared on the bottom lane. The timing is just so perfect! No members would say - wait, I have to clear the creeps! It is not like that! There''s no wonder that her teammates would follow on her signal." his companion added in admiration.


    "True, true... Their coordination is also commendable! Wow, at this point, I will be ashamed to call this squad green-handed! Their decisions are in that level ... that level of the pro! Even if they have no background or whatsoever, this team got the skills!" the commentator responded.

 Chapter 61 - The Chronos Squad Vs Vultramites Squad (6)

    In this tournament, the 5 v 5 map was officially called The Battleground. Its overall setting was wide with several walls, grass areas, trees, and NPC monsters on both sides. At the center was the common division of territories created by a long river.


    Every player has the freedom to explore and choose which spot they want to go to. They can even invade the territories of their enemies! The is no such thing as a restricted area.


    Unlike other online Realtime Strategic Games, the map had no invisible barriers to specific locations which usually give portions of the map the safe and dangerous zone.


    All zones won''t affect the gameplay of the players as it is safe to explore. All the players needed to look out for would be their enemy as sneak attacks and ganking happens all the time.


    Players have the option to attack or defend in whichever lane they desired to be in depending on their role rotation tactics. Hence, the battleground is known for its fight against strategies.


    Unfortunately, with the five members of the Chronos squad advancing at the top lane of the Vultramites squad, such kind of freedom to roam everywhere was no longer available.


    The Chronos squad cut out this choice to go anywhere and forced their enemies to go and defend the inner tower.


    Not long after, the characters in the map were gathered in one certain area.


    One side was a team that was eager to attack and invade their enemies, while on the opposite side, the team would do their best to defend and stop the invaders.


    "What bad luck is this?! Why did it quickly come to this situation?" the tank user of the Vutramites squad was completely at loss by how the match had progressed. Now that their team was forced to defend at the final tower in such an early game, they felt embarrassed and hopeless!


    They have completely fallen greatly to the disadvantage side!


    Most members of the Vutramites squad could not also help but curse their mage and fighter user. These two teammates were just guarding the lane and were messing with Joey.


    But now, their team were caught in a more critical mess!


    Not only the Vultramites squad lost a single tower, but they lost two! And the final tower was about to get destroyed too!


    Facing such pressure, the participants on their lounge took a deep breath and try to rethink of how to counterattack.


    Is there a possible way of fighting against the Chronos squad?


    All former plans they agreed were shattered into nothing!


    Then, another problem arose as the Vultramites squad players thought thoroughly of the possibilities and situation.


    There was no way for them to counterattack as the Chronos tank can charge both close combat or in a range fight!


    "This CEO UNRIVALED is really troublesome to deal in a team fight! It''s too dangerous if we got caught by this tank!" James felt exasperated.


    "We have lost our chance of attacking your brother because the tank is protecting his character! Tsk!" the assassin user commented.


    To say, the Vultramites players was on their wits end! They don''t know what tactics to apply!


    Not only they need to defend, they had to be mindful of the distance they move their characters in the map and make it far to their enemies.


    They have to maintain a few feet away from their own tower to avoid the hook from Sofia''s tank. Otherwise, it would be a complete doom for their team if they clashed right away!


    "Hahaha, this is the supremacy of this tank. When it comes to team fight, the hook is a very dangerous skill!" WINS also muttered in his seat. His two companions only nodded and continued to watch at the large screen.


    Seeing the character stats, the Vultramites squad players were not stupid to engage in fighting a direct 5 v 5! They would have to be defensive at the same time their squad needed to avoid any possible combat.


    But the Chronos squad was determined to push their way no matter what! Whether the enemy would attack them or not, they were able to make proper consideration to everything.


    Seconds passed once more and the creeps of both sides have respawned coming from their bases.


    While the Chronos squad was waiting for their creeps to arrive on their target tower, their assassin and marksman user roamed the Vultramites jungle and easily attacked the monsters. Farming became so simple task for the situation was under their control.


    The second wave of jungle monsters respawned but was quickly killed by these two characters.


    The agility of Claire''s assassin remained at top-notch because of her double boots. She easily cleared their jungle as well before going back to the top lane where the remaining three players cleared the enemy creeps surrounding the Vultramites squad.


    Her movement was so swift that the audience finally understood the items in her inventory.


    "So this is the reason why she got the double boots! That''s like an ultra-fast speed!"


    "It is also good to have this kind of items for agility as long as the opponent will not level up first."


    "Yes, but still, this movement is cool. Later when I play again, I will try to use this role and use her build."


    Some audience expressed their plans and understanding as the game continued in front of them.


    On the large screen, the scene was fairly familiar. Earlier, the mage and fighter of the Vultramites squad had exactly cornered Joey on the top lane. It was a frustrating scene. But now, the Vultramites squad was cornered by Joey and her teammates!


    While the timer of the match continued to count, the people in the computer room began to discuss and spectate the result of the last round.


    "They need to defend that tower." the operator spoke while his hands tightly gripped the blinking mouse on his desk. If looked closer, all his types of equipment were not the usual thing that operators normally used. All of it was gaming equipment! His keyboard and mouse have specs that were only exclusive for the gamer.


    "How can the Vultramites squad defend in their situation? Even if the Vultramites tank player has so many special skills, it is useless. He would not even dare to charge out because his character lacks magic resistance!" a guy from the technical team responded.


    "That''s a big trouble!"


    "The game will really end like this! Haha, I don''t know if I''ll be satisfied with this match! It is too quick!"


    "Here we go, the creeps from the Chronos squad are on the final tower of the Vultramites squad."


    The operator quickly switched the screen display on the stage at the perspective of Sofia''s tank.


    All of them saw that Sofia was trying to aim the projectile of her hook. An arrow of its aim was moving on different angles simultaneously.


    However, as she made momentary calculations, her opponents were really far! The Vultramites have calculated the distance well!


    Finally, when the creeps entered the range of the Vultramites tower, Sofia stepped forward to get closer to her target and her team followed.


    The Vultramites players moved back voluntarily to avoid the hook. They end up retreating farther away and not defending the tower in the process.


    And when their mage moved slower, it was a little bit too late for her to dodge. Her character entered the range of CEO UNRIVALED.


    Sofia''s hook instantly snatched the mage character in just a blink of an eye!


    The next thing was a display of slaying the mage like a slice of meat receiving their attacks freely.


    In just a matter of seconds, the mage character died once more before her team could save her.


    "Tsk!" the players on the side of the Vultramites squad clicked their tongue in anger. The pressure of being surrounded and inevitable defeat was too heavy and unbearable!

 Chapter 62 - The Chronos Squad Vs Vultramites Squad (7)

    "Sorry," the mage user of Vultramites squad muttered softly as her head hung down. Her shoulder was slumped directly on the chair. Her face had also turned red in embarrassment.


    When this mage user heard the "tsk" sound from her teammates, she knew that she screwed up badly.


    Nothing was more hurtful than seeing that her teammates were dissatisfied with her performance in the game. It was like a stab in her chest.


    The air on their lounge became uncomfortable. It became suffocating for her to breathe.


    "Sorry guys," she muttered once more with a voice that crumbled and her eyes were on a verge of tears. The girl could only swallow her emotions down her throat bitterly.


    "Don''t mind it," James tried to lighten up the mood as their team was still struggling to secure the safety of their base.


    All her other companions exhaled loudly expressing their frustration.


    Their final defense tower was destroyed while their team kept on retreating. If they continued to retreat, their base would get invaded by the Chronos squad in no time!


    The tank user finally made a risky decision. There was nowhere to retreat!


    His finger pressed a skill on his screen and his character leaped forward to the area of the map where Stephen''s marksman was standing.


    Boom!


    Clang!


    The impact of the tank''s foot stomping on the ground broke out on the speakers around the gym. The chains tied on his foot clanged and swayed in the air for a few seconds.


    However, no matter how loud the sound of the character''s arrival, the audience knew that it was already a desperate move from their squad. There was no air of charm nor appeal of its action. The Vultramites squad was clearly pushed towards the edge of the losing end!


    As the chain continued to sway, Stephen''s marksman moved sideward to dodge the attack. Clark''s mage made a follow-up attack and stunned the Vultramites tank character.


    The full clash broke out and the scene becomes chaotic as the various animation of skills followed one after another.


    As the tank of the Vutramites squad initiated the clash, his companions immediately dashed forward in an attempt to push away the Chronos squad out from their base!


    But with their desperate action came a dire consequence. The notification of double kills followed to appear on the large screen. Whilst the Chronos squad players were all alive.


    And not long after, another character was slain until all the players of the Vultramites squad were wiped out!


    Without any delay, Sofia''s nimble thumb pressed repeatedly to the passive attack button on the bottom side of her mobile screen.


    CEO UNRIVALED hacked the base of the Vultramites squad together with the members of the Chronos squad.


    While the base was almost destroyed, the Vultramites players placed their phones on the desk without waiting for the defeat notification to show. They have lost the guts to watch their base being attacked.


    The players could not contain their emotions and their tank user broke into tears. They have great players on their team. How could a mere newly formed squad defeat them in such an early match?! The result was unacceptable!


    When the large screen on the stage displayed the victory banner, the audience clapped softly.


    None of them burst into an uproar.


    Perhaps it was because they felt that the game was quickly finished. There were only a few highlights centered on the match.


    Nevertheless, Claire''s double boots items in her inventory significantly imprinted the depth of their memories.


    The commentator was quick to announce and congratulate the winning team as well while the audience continued to cheer calmly.


    "GG!" Sofia smiled at her team as they stood from their seat. Such term could also be use to congratulate a teammate.


    On the other side, the Vultramites squad had long exited on the lounge.


    "Yes! We won!" Clark produced a goofy smile. "This round is actually easy!"


    "Yeah, you have defeated your brother. It was easy indeed. The time is just 4mins and 39seconds!" Joey placed a hand on Clark''s shoulder and slightly patted the boy. He emphasized that one of their opponents was Clark''s siblings.


    "And you also defeated your ex," Clark playfully retorted reminding Joey that his ex was one of their enemies on the match.


    The mage user of the Vulramites squad was indeed Joey''s ex-girlfriend that they encountered on Clark''s mansion before!


    "Ugh! I''m so over with her. She cheated on me and acted like she is the victim!" Joey''s face turned sour as he shook his head. He was hoping that Clark would not give a big deal about his past.


    "Hehe, you started it! If you did not brought up my brother, I will not brought up your ex!" Clark sheepishly smiled.


    "Yeah, yeah," Joey trailed and did not argue anymore.


    As the Chronos squad returned to their booth, an organizer immediately approached them politely.


    "Hello, I am AN. I am one of the organizers of the tournament. Right now, we have arranged a press for your team to get exposure on the interview." the lady named AN offered the best smile that the staff could wear. She even gestured a customary bow to the group before waiting for their response.


    "We will have an interview? But the tournament is not yet done!" Claire interrupted before any of her fellow members could speak a response.


    "Yes, there is an initial interview. And there is also a championship interview later. Right now, the press is interviewing all the squads about their experience in the tournament and mostly about the new map," AN immediately explained to them.


    "Sister AN, may I know who is the press that will be conducting the interview for us? Also, the interviewers that will talk to us, may I have their names?" Sofia asked calmly.


    Her companions stared at her in confusion. The staff was also taken aback by Sofia''s inquiry.


    Most gamers that she had approached earlier only asked for a tip on how they would answer the interview questions. Some even ask if there is a scrip of what they would answer!


    But the lady was actually asking about the company name of the press that will handle their publicity! For her, it was definitely a strange and unusual question.


    ''Why does she want to know? Since when did the gamers mind about these kind details? I have never seen anyone who are interested to know the press! They just agreed to be interviewed!'' the staff could not help but secretly thought. She raised the small notebook in her palm and tried to look for the details that Sofia was asking.

 Chapter 63 - Exclusivity Vs Publicity

    AN could not understand why the teen in front of her wanted to know the information of the press company, nonetheless, she still swiftly looked for the scribbled notes on her hand.


    Her delicate fingers flipped through each small page while glancing diligently at Sofia from time to time. Focusing her attention on Sofia and the notes on her palm.


    Sofia also gave a glance at the overall appearance of AN while the staff was busy looking at her notes. With her meticulous soul, she quickly realized that this staff might be an intern or a new employee.


    And she could also tell that AN had a special status in the industry, based on the jewelry that she was wearing, the smoothness of her skin, and the way she stood upright.


    Most of the staff who had enough experience would not be mindful of their posture. But the lady could level how Sofia stood straightly with an air of authority.


    The only difference with her was that, Sofia had backed up this sense of authority with high confidence.


    Not everyone could carry this type of presence.


    Also, AN had put a set of branded gold, not the most expensive set, but still enough to give a subtle hint that whoever wore the jewelry was rich. This meant that she was from an elite family.


    For some reason, Sofia could remember and recognized the design of jewelry almost in an instant. Perhaps, it was because of her lavish past life that made her see and observe things that would usually not be seen by ordinary people.


    Claire leaned closer in Sofia and whispered, "Sof, what do you think are the questions they will ask us in the interview? Should we answer them directly?"


    "Not yet, let''s know who are the interviewers first," Sofia whispered right back at her.


    AN opened her mouth and wanted to speak a suggestion, however she gulped and dismissed the idea. For some reason unknown to her, she was slightly nervous.


    ''I''m sure I scribbled the name of the press company here. Where is it? AH! Why am I nervous?'' she mentally cried as she felt her palms started to get sweaty. This was the limit of her confidence.


    While Sofia was done assessing the lady, AN was still flipping the pages of her notebook. It would seem that she could not find the exact page where she had written the information...


    "Is there a problem, sister AN?" Sofia softly asked when she noticed that the staff''s hand was trembling. ''What makes her nervous?'' she also wondered.


    "Ahh--, nothing, nothing," AN secretly inhaled to calm herself. Then, she continued to go with her suggestion, "Uhhmn, I''ll check the details of the company. Is it okay if we go there now while I scan the information on my notes? I''ll tell you once I find it."


    It turned out, AN wanted them to head towards the interview room right away.


    Sofia smiled warmly at the lady and looked around the audience area.


    "No need to rush," she muttered before her teammates could agree to the staff.


    No need to rush! Upon hearing her response, AN immediately understood that Sofia would not move her feet unless she would tell her the company!


    ''Why is this squad so particular with the press company!?'' she asked in her mind while nodding at Sofia. This kind of interest totally baffled her.


    "B-but, I was instructed by my team leader to get you as soon as possible for the interview. Please, I don''t want to get in trouble. I''m just new here," AN modestly informed Sofia of the situation.


    Her words confirmed Sofia''s assessment with her. She was a new employee but her family was not also simple. In fact, her family only allowed her to work so that she could learn the details of organizing an event. To give her the right experience on the field.


    "Sister AN, you won''t get in trouble," Sofia assured her.


    "Sighs! May I know why you want the company details? Since I am just new here and I am not familiar with the press personnel, so, I have written the notes, however, I cannot find the information now," AN admitted.


    "Hmmn, could you call the team leader and asked the details please? My team is very particular with our publicity," Sofia suggested.


    "AH! Okay, okay," AN agreed and quickly dialed her team leader. She even stepped a few feet away from the Chronos squad to give them a room for the members to talk privately.


    In just a few rings, her call was quickly received.


    "Hello, how can you take so long?! Did you get lost?" the voice of the team leader on the other line was agitated.


    "Sorry, it''s like this, the Chronos squad wants to know which press company will interview them? Team leader, please give me the details," AN humbly responded.


    "Why are they interested in the company?! How troublesome! Wait for a moment, I will check in our files!" the team leader stated and their line became dead air.


    Indeed, for most teen gamers, things like company information do not matter at all.


    As long as there would be a chance for publicity offered to them, they would quickly think of the questions and how they would answer in front of the camera. Just like how Claire instantly worry after knowing that they would go in an interview.


    It does not matter which press would give the publicity. The only important thing was that they would get the opportunity to get exposure and be famous.


    But to Sofia, she had her last life as former CEO, hence, she had already experienced the brutality in the press business.


    How could she allow just a random press company to exploit her team easily?


    "Sof, what''s wrong with being interview? I''ve seen tournaments before and participants are usually asked for interview. This is normal. Why do we need to know the press company?" Clark inquired out of curiosity. He was also confused with Sofia''s insistence as this thing does not seem to be connected to their squad.


    "I have checked the social media earlier. We have enough publicity in the social media platform," Sofia answered.


    On their way back to the venue of the tournament from the Rosen Club lunch, Sofia made a quick evaluation of what was happening in social media. She could tell that her team had already gained a large number of audience more than she expected.


    Although she had not yet examined thoroughly all the press companies of District 7, she knew that only exclusivity and not publicity would make their squad raise a more meaningful value. That''s right! She was aiming to build a value of her team because she knew that fame is just a passing. Fame could be lost any time.


    "Then, what is your plan, Sof?" Clark asked while scratching the back of his head. Stephen and Joey were silently listening behind him.


    "Our team must establish a sense of exclusivity," Sofia answered.


    The rest of her group listened and nodded their heads but in fact, they don''t quite understand what Sofia really meant. They just nodded at her in agreement with her exclusivity idea.


    "I like that sound. We will be exclusive. Wow, it''s like a rich mindset," Joey commented without thinking too much of what he said.


    Sofia just smiled and explained, "Imagine if you own a car that was mass retailed anywhere, then, you also own another car that is limited edition... which car will you take care more?"


    "Hmm, of course, its the limited edition. The other can be obtained easily," Joey replied.


    "That''s right. So, our target is the value of a limited edition car. We must be establish exclusivity so that the public will value us greater than the others," Sofia muttered.


    As Sofia was granted a past life as a CEO, she was well aware that there are two routes for her team to choose towards the peak of being famous. One was to go public without any restrictions. They would accept all interviews and publicity.


    However, it would be troublesome for them to agree with this arrangement. They were still students and it was important to build their privacy despite a part of a public figure!


    But how could they attain such status while maintaining a private life?


    To others, it may seem a complicated thing to achieve this feat. It was even almost impossible as privacy was usually the cost that public figures needed to compromise as they go along with their career.


    However, for Sofia, things like this were just too simple to do...


    AN finally ended her conversation with her team leader and returned to Sofia''s team maintaining an enthusiastic smile.


    "Uhmmn, it is the known press company in the district. The company name is FDS Press Company. My team leader said that this company will be hosting this tournaments'' overall publicity." the staff placed her phone in the pocket and looked at Sofia attentively waiting for them to move.


    "Sister AN, please decline the FDS Press interview on our behalf and inform your team leader that my squad has our own press," Sofia calmly told the lady before she turned around and sat back on the couch of their booth.

 Chapter 64 - Troubles Brewing

    "Huh? Did I hear it wrong?" AN asked with her eyebrows furrowed deeply.


    At that moment she doubted whether she caught Sofia''s message clearly. Her hands flew right on the side of her face. She slowly combed her blonde hair and gathered some of it behind her back.


    "Sister AN, you have heard it correctly. My team, the Chronos squad, we have our press to handle our matters. Please decline the FDS Press Company," Sofia stated maintaining a friendly tone. Her voice was soft yet it was firm and resolute. One that does not leave any room to argue.


    "D-decline? Eh? Are you saying that you don''t want to be interviewed?" AN stood there confused.


    She did hear her correctly! And such a response made her extremely surprise as she did not expect that a rejection would follow after she would tell the name of the press company.


    ''Why would they decline to be interviewed? Can a newly formed squad obtain their private press? That would seem to be more than impossible!'' several questions formed inside the staff''s mind while she was caught in a daze...


    ... And it was not just the staff that was taken aback by Sofia''s rejection.


    All the Chronos members failed to anticipate such refusal from Sofia as well. They were sure that they have no connection with any press, however, Sofia claimed they have!


    ''When did we get a private press?'' they mentally asked but they concealed the trace of confusion on their face.


    Sofia''s team pretended that they were calm and composed but on the inside, they were also bewildered.


    They did not dare to ask Sofia directly for the staff was still in their booth, they knew that it would be inappropriate for them to speak about what they were thinking.


    "Miss, are you serious to reject the interview? You are young and may not know the consequences. This is a good chance for your squad to gain publicity! Your team will gain a fanbase and large audience after the FDS Press Company interviewed your group!" AN could not help but emphasize the benefits of the interview to Sofia. She felt that the lady may not be aware of these details and needed to be informed.


    "Sister AN, my squad has our own press, but, thank you for the invitation. The matter of publicity, our press will handle it," Sofia repeated.


    "Okay, I will tell my team leader, miss! Good luck in your next game!" she murmured and took a deep breath. She felt that it was a waste of opportunity but there was nothing she can do about it.


    When AN realized that she had nothing to speak anymore, she offered a slight bow and hurriedly stormed out of the booth.


    Her elegant figure retreating away from the group maintained gracefulness as she sprinted to the hallway.


    Not long after striding on the hallway, she turned left and walked back to the room where her team leader and the female interviewer were already waiting for her arrival.


    As she entered, her team leader frowned when no one was following behind her. The arrangement was for the Chronos squad to be interviewed, however, this staff did not bring even a single member of the Chronos squad!


    "Why are you alone? Where are they?" the team leader stood from her seat and asked AN.


    "This... The squad had rejected the interview. They said that they have a private press," AN lowered her gaze as she responded.


    "Private press?! They don''t even have any background before this tournament! How can this group have a private press?" the team leader''s face turned sour.


    "I don''t know, but this is what their team captain said. She said that the matters of their publicity would be handled by their private press!" AN spoke referring to Sofia.


    "Team Captain? Let me deal with her!" the team leader spoke and quickly exited the room. AN was left staring at the door blankly. Somehow, she was worried about the Chronos squad. Her team leader might shame them!


    ~


    At this point, Jing Jing wandered in the hallway and was heading towards the restroom.


    The sound of the host announcing the next round''s match arrangement could be heard clearly.


    She tried to glance around the booth but failed to notice Sofia''s figure. She only looked at the other players before she proceeded to walk.


    On the small intersection, the team leader on haste had almost bumped Jing Jing, as they walked into the same path.


    Fortunately, Jing Jing was quick to step back and managed to dodge the figure before they both would slam their bodies.


    "How rude," Jing Jing whispered to herself as the staff did not even mutter an apology for their almost accidental encounter. She looked at the staff while taking a long breath.


    "Some staff lacks for decency! Sigh!" Jing Jing finally continued to heed on her way. When she pried the door of the restroom open another person was about to get out from the inside. As she looked up, a familiar woman also appeared in front of her.


    "Oh? What are you doing here? Our company will cover this tournament, miss!" the woman arched her brows while glaring at Jing Jing.


    Jing Jing bit her lips in annoyance. ''First, I almost bumped at that staff. Now, I am facing Drake''s new girl! So many troublesome people coming at me!'' she inwardly lamented.


    Seeing that Jing Jing did not respond to her, the lady waved her hands in front of Jing Jing''s face and called her loudly, "Hey!"


    "I''m an audience. Anyway, you miss... listen, me staying in this tournament is none of your business!" Jing Jing flipped her hair and left the woman.


    Although the woman was her ex-boyfriend''s new girl, she does not have animosity with her.


    She only loathed Drake as the man betrayed her. But for his new woman, Jing Jing felt it was a waste of time to pay attention to her.


    On the other side, the woman could only stomp her feet. She pointed her index finger at Jing Jing''s back and angrily warned her.


    "There is no room for your company in this tournament. You better stay out of our business or I will sue you! We have an exclusive contract with the tournament''s organizer. If I see you doing a cover, you and your company''s reputation will be done! I''ll make sure of it!"


    Hearing the vile words, Jing Jing did not look back. She continued to move her feet and enter the empty cubicle completely ignoring the arrogant woman behind her.

 Chapter 65 - A Brilliant Alibi

    Unbeknownst to Jing Jing, two figures of man and woman were waiting for her outside the restroom. Preparing to attack her the moment she would exit from it.


    "Drake, you must talk some sense with this lady! Her figure in this gym could affect our team''s performance," the woman urged while pouting her lips seductively. The man nodded and kissed her.


    As Jing Jing walked out, her face turned completely sullen. Her line of sight went straight to the familiar figures doing their public display of affection.


    "Ahh, you really paid much value to me. Do you... perhaps, want me to formally congratulate you on your exclusive contract with this tournament?" Jing Jing stood straight with dignity.


    In front of her were Drake and his new lover.


    "Jing Jing, we just don''t want you to make trouble. It''s better if you go home. There is no need for you to congratulate us," Drake boldly suggested as if he had forgotten how he betrayed the lady.


    "Of course, there is no need for me to congratulate you! After all, we both know how you get this scope! Tsk!" Jing Jing gave him a wicked smile. She was done grieving with the man''s deception. All she wanted to preserve is her self-respect. Since the man wanted to challenge her, she would never cower!


    "Jing Jing, we are over! Between us, there is nothing anymore! I warned you! Don''t make trouble!" Drake snapped.


    "I''m making trouble? Wow! Don''t you a little bit of self-respect, Drake? It''s the two of you waiting for me to come out! What for? To bully me? Even if there are ten of your people ganging up against me, I am not scared to face you! Clean hands do not need any washing! It''s better if you don''t provoke me, Drake!" Jing Jing responded with clear eyes.


    "How arrogant of you, miss Jing Jing! Who do you think you are? You actually dare to talk back to the only heir of the FDS Press Company!" the woman leaned closer at Drake and hugged his arms while scolding Jing Jing for talking back at him.


    "Hehe, Whatever his position in your company, it does not change my view on him. A deceiving man is not worthy of any praises! Disgusting!" Jing Jing gave the couple a meaningful smile before turning her back and walked back to the audience side.


    Drake looked at her retreating figure while clenching his fist tightly. His hand was visibly shaking out of anger. For some reason, Jing Jing''s last word pierced through his guts like a sharp knife.


    Disgusting...


    Back on the stage, the host was done announcing the next match. The status of the online bet was also projected on the large screen to give awareness to the audience.


    Not only awareness, the organizers felt very proud to show off the numbers of the bet as it reached over millions already!


    "This is the highest betting pool in the history of online tournaments so far! And it''s still increasing! Thank you for the patronage! And thanks to the participants who had showcased their skills and abilities in the game!" the host spoke with great pride while a wild round of applause blasted from the audience.


    In the middle of this announcement, Sofia''s teammates quickly surrounded her with several questions about the private press. They did not pay much attention to the host and were eager to listen to Sofia instead.


    "Do we really have a private press, Sof?" Clark asked with an enthusiastic face. It was such exciting news for him to know that they the kind of resources that only a few had. Even some pro players do not opt to hire private press!


    Claire on the other hand was not as excited as Clark. She was more concerned about Sofia''s decision to reject their interview. "Sof, I don''t know your plans. But why did you refuse the interview?" she politely asked.


    Joey only shrugged and commented, "I''m just confused because we have not talked about our publicity before. Maybe we will get in trouble for refusing to be interviewed by the organizers'' press?"


    As for Stephen, he remained silent while waiting for Sofia to speak.


    "Trouble? I hope not. But the staff indeed told us that the press will cover the tournament. What''s the plan, Sof?" Claire inquired. She was worried that the organizers of the tournament would target their group after their refusal.


    Just as Sofia was about to speak, the team manager entered their booth without minding any formality. She does not even greet the group or ask permission for her intrusion.


    "Very good! I have sent my subordinate to call your group for an interview! Yet, you declined her! The interview is part of the event. If you refused, you must be held accountable!" the team leader did not mask anger as she stepped inside the booth.


    Judging by her uniform, she did not need any introduction either. The group immediately recognized that she was probably the head of the first staff that approached them.


    "Hmmn, we have no accountability with the interview. Thank you for the invite though," Sofia did not bother rising from her seat. She just crossed her legs and looked at the lady in the eye with a relaxed expression.


    Soon after, it was like a silent battle of intense gaze. Sofia was staring calmly at the manager while the manager was glaring at her. The rest of the Chronos squad members became quiet as they were slightly scared by the confrontation.


    The manager was too rash and looked so aggressive.


    However, the longer the manager stared at Sofia''s clear eyes, the more she became uncomfortable being subject to her gaze. She felt as if the lady was examining even to the depth of her soul!


    In the end, it was the team manager who looked away.


    "You have no accountability, you say? Very well! Now I understand why you don''t want to be interviewed! Looked at your ugly face full of acne!" the team manager surprisingly started to take up their argument on a personal level. She even smirked while looking at the pimples on Sofia''s face.


    Hearing such words, Sofia leaned her back on the sofa and adjusted her sitting position. The argument was laughable! At the same time, she could not help but traced the area where the pimples have grown on her skin.


    But for some reason, a brilliant idea appeared in her mind.


    The team manager just gave Sofia a solid alibi of ending their conversation while taking advantage of the words


    "Yes, it is because of the pimples on my face. I am ashamed to be interviewed. Please understand!" Sofia mumbled with a glint of amusement in her eyes.


    She was in fact mentally laughing at the words that she just said! Never in her mature mind, she had imagined that a day would come in her life that she would blame a pimple for her advantage!

 Chapter 66 - The Piece Of Paper

    The team manager almost dropped her jaw on the floor!


    How could it be that simple as being embarrassed by the pimple to accept the interview? Surely, there was more to it than what Sofia was telling her.


    And she also knew that Sofia was taking advantage of her words!


    Meanwhile, Stephen shook his head and made a facepalm. His shoulder was slightly quivering as he covered his mouth to stop himself from laughing.


    If he had known that Sofia would use her pimples as an excuse to avoid the interview, he might have offered a skincare product to her before!


    The man slowly took his phone and pretended to get busy. The rest of the members followed his action. They buried their faces on their phones and refused to look at the intruder.


    Opposite to the group, the lady was fuming in rage!


    ''How dare this youngster used my words against me!'' the team manager angrily complained while rubbing her palms.


    "Right! You are crafty, kid! I''ll be sure to post in the media that it is your reason to refuse to be interviewed! I''m sure that your fans would be amused to see the head of the Chronos squad refuses interview because of acne!" the team manager coldly said. She had expected Sofia to feel threatened by it and apologize to her. After all, the teenagers were too attentive to their appearance.


    However, much to her surprise, Sofia only beamed brightly. She clasped her fingers and leaned forward.


    "That could also work. But, as I said, my squad has a private press to take care of our publicity," Sofia waved her hand to dismiss the team manager.


    This direct indifference from Sofia made the team manager almost lose her control.


    "You... you... you... Hmmp! I''ll make sure to put that in the headlines of the tournament news! Don''t blame me!" the team manager staggered as she turned around and walked out of the booth.


    As the woman left, Sofia took a small mirror on her bag and tilted her chin. She examined the redness of her skin as several acne spread on it.


    "That woman surely gives attention to the details of my face! " She mumbled softly.


    "What the heck! Are you that insecure about your pimples? I could have bought you something to cure it," Stephen playfully teased Sofia.


    "I''m not insecure! It was a joke! They are part of my natural skin. It''s nothing to be embarrassed. But, come to think of it, if the tournament organizers really published a headline of my pimple, it would be a good deal for me!" Sofia chuckled.


    "Good deal? People will bash you because of it, Sof! How can you say that it''s a good deal," Claire worriedly spoke.


    "No, no, no... It is a good deal. Hehe, I am just a blossoming teenager. Getting pimples is normal. But if the tournament would publish this kind of flaw, it will be on the advantage side for me." Sofia paused with a small grin in her lips.


    "How can you make it as an advantage?" Clark inquired.


    "See, those companies who specializes anti-pimple products would surely offer a partnership to prove their effectiveness. Hehehe, they might want to be a sponsor," Sofia giggled while imagining the possibility of sponsorship and gaining profit from it.


    "That... how are you able to think of that plan?! That''s brilliant! I have a pimple too, we should do it together, Sof!" Clark moved the hair on his forehead and showed a single red bump on his skin.


    "Yes, well see if they dare publish my pimples. But after this tournament, if we get plenty of sleep, this pimple will be gone. That lady just failed to consider our sleepless night for the preparation of the tournament. Anyway, I am just waiting for a call. We have no private press yet. But, I already met someone who could potentially give us publicity," Sofia informed them.


    "Okay, that''s great! You are so awesome, Sof! So, you have made consideration of these things before this day of the tournament?" Joey asked.


    "No, it happened earlier this morning before the elimination round. I met someone with a connection from the press," Sofia clarified.


    "Sof, you seemed to know all the things that needed to do. Are you sure that this is your first time to join a tournament?" Clark voiced out her suspicion.


    "It is my first time to join official gaming tournament. You can ask Claire if you don''t believe me. But I do have experience on other kinds of stuff," Sofia glanced at Claire and hinted to her teammates about her last life.


    As their squad continued to have a casual conversation, Jing Jing passed through their booth and finally noticed Sofia''s figure. But she did not think too much of it. She just smiled and continued walking towards her two companions.


    "So, she is also a gamer participating in this tournament," Jing Jing whispered and subconsciously took a piece of paper from her pocket. It was the paper that Sofia handed her earlier.


    As she opened looked down on the content, her entire body instantly froze.


    [ Sofia Su


    The Chronos Squad


    *********235 ]


    "AH!" Jing Jing exclaimed in shock. Maxwell and Rica who were just sitting near her were startled by her sharp voice and observed her secretly.


    "It is her?" Jing Jing took a big gulp while trying to calm herself. She did not expect that she had bumped into the very person that she wanted to take a scope earlier!


    "This... this..." Jing Jing panicked in excitement. Unexpectedly, there was a chance for her to get a great lead to submit for her company!


    "What''s the matter, Jing Jing?" Rica and Maxwell asked together when the couple noticed that her demeanor abruptly changed.


    "I have struck a huge luck without even realizing it!" Jing Jing quickly responded and took her phone out. She immediately dialed the number scribbled on the paper.


    "A huge luck?!" the lady beside her looked puzzled but Jing Jing was already busy with her phone.


    "Hehehe, I''ll be back," Jing Jing stood from her seat and started walking away.


    "Who is she calling?" Rica looked at Maxwell as if her boyfriend could give her some answers.


    "Just enjoy the game, hon. Your friend knows what she is doing," Maxwell kissed her forehead and suggested that she continued watching the match.

 Chapter 67 - Contract Request

    Although Jing Jing was holding a plain tiny piece of paper that can also be considered as scratch, she treated it like a piece of gold.


    No matter how she thought, the content on it was similar to that of a business card.


    And in the industry that she lived in when a person handed a business card, it only meant one thing. The person was showing interest. The kind of interest to form a possible connection, alliance, negotiation, or business!


    "Ehem!" Jing Jing cleared her throat while walking down the bleachers.


    The idea of finally getting direct access to the Chronos squad was too overwhelming for her. She hastily strolled past the crowd until she reached the corner of the gym.


    The phone beside her ear was ringing but Jing Jing could hear her heart beating loudly than the device. She took several breaths to calm down and waited for the other line to answer her call.


    When the ring stopped and indicated that the other line answered the call, Jing Jing was too excited and did not wait for the other person to speak.


    "It''s me! It''s me! The lady you''ve met earlier. Uhhm, the one you''ve handed a paper with your number!" Jing Jing hurriedly introduced.


    "Yes, take a deep breath and talk slowly," Sofia responded after listening to Jing Jing''s jumbled words.


    Mannerisms are hard to break, and Sofia distinguished right away the lady on the other line was nervous. Her secretary in her previous life was just like this. Whenever the lady gets tensed, she would talk faster.


    "Ughh... Sorry," Jing Jing smacked her forehead. She subconsciously inhaled and apologized.


    "That''s fine. I''ve noticed that you are working from the press company, so I took a shot of giving you my contact number. Perhaps, you might be interested in handling my squad?" Sofia discussed. It was the most possible reason she could think. Otherwise, how could she tell the lady that she was her secretary once?


    "Oh my gosh! Yes! I''d love to! If you agree, I can take interviews with your squad!" Jing Jing almost jumped out of joy.


    She really struck a stroke of great luck!


    "Mmn, if you can send me a contract proposal as soon as possible, we can settle right away," Sofia stated.


    Contract Proposal!


    For a moment, Jing Jing remembered that the lady on the other line looked like a teenager. How could she impose this thing in such a professional manner?


    "I will send you a proposal, ma''am! Just give me ten minutes," Jing Jing said. Her tone became more polite.


    "Okay, take your time. No rush," Sofia replied before their quick phone call ended.


    ''Wow, teenagers nowadays are very knowledgeable! I thought that she would agree to an interview! I never expected that she would ask for a contract first!'' she pondered deeply.


    Jing Jing quickly hovered her way out of the gym and almost ran to her car. Despite Sofia telling her not to rush, she knew that it was just an expression of formality.


    As soon as she opened the door of her car, she pulled some of her contract drafts. Jing Jing looked around but could not see her laptop!


    "AHH!" she remembered that her laptop was in her place.


    She glanced around the area and notice a small computer shop a few meters away from her.


    She sprinted towards the establishment with the draft in her hand.


    Soon after, Jing Jing placed her ID on the counter of the establishment and did not wait for the attendant to speak for her assigned computer. She deliberately sat in the empty chair and opened the computer on her own.


    The attendant could only blankly watch at her swift movements.


    After the lady was settled on her chair, he called to ask for the duration she intended to use the computer. "Miss, is it 30 minutes? Or is it an open hour?"


    "No, just ten minutes!" Jing Jing replied while her fingers started to type on the keyboard.


    "T-ten minutes?!" the attendant frowned. He was caught off guard by how short his customer would stay.


    The usual customers in his shop would normally picked an open hour which meant they could stay for as long as they want with no time limit. The payment would only be counted after the customer got tired of using their unit.


    "Miss, this is a gaming shop. We only accommodate customers that want to play here," the attendant told Jing Jing emphasizing the type of customers they had been catering to.


    "Just charge me with the minimum," Jing Jing continued to type. Her face was looking at the drafts and she did not even glimpse at the keyboard nor the computer screen.


    "This sister types so fast! Look!" one of the customers who noticed Jing Jing''s typing speed quickly called her companion.


    "Indeed! That''s so amazing!" the other customer responded in amazement.


    To them, Jing Jing was perhaps the person with fastest typing speed that they met. But for Jing Jing, such kind of typing speed was normal as she was working in the press company. She was so used to typing that she can still type even if her eyes were closed!


    "Sister, the minimum is half an hour," the attendant spoke.


    At the same time, Jing Jing was finished typing the contract document and she was also done sending the file to her email.


    "Okay, how much is half an hour?" Jing Jing stood up from the chair and finally looked at the attendant.


    "Err, are you done?" the attendant asked.


    "Yes, please count how much should I pay," Jing Jing initiated.


    "Sister, it''s just less than 5 minutes that you used our unit. No need to pay," the attendant sighed and return her ID.


    "Oh, then take this and keep the change," Jing Jing placed a paper bill on the counter and hastily left.


    "Wow, the customer is so generous!" the attendant took the money in disbelief.


    "It''s the famous reporter we see in TV and online headlines," someone told the attendant.


    "I don''t watch TV," the attendant shrugged and returned to his computer.


    On his monitor screen was the online betting site of the tournament. His hand maneuvered the mouse and clicked to place a bet on the Chronos squad.

 Chapter 68 - Reasonable Vs Negotiable

    The rushed footsteps of Jing Jing caught the attention of the bypassers outside the gym.


    They cast a weird gaze at her, but Jing Jing was too busy to mind anything other than her great opportunity.


    She had finally obtained a great scope and would soon join the trending discussions online!


    "Wait a minute!" she suddenly spoke to herself. Jing Jing stared at the final contract on her phone. However, her excitement slowly dissolved and her face somehow revealed a slight reluctance.


    As she took a step on the entrance door, Jing Jing halted and remembered something. The guard gave her a respectful smile but Jing Jing was just staring blankly at the space.


    "If I interview the Chronos squad, what its gonna be to the FDS Press Company?" Jing Jing dropped her enthusiasm as she made considerations. She recollected her quick chat with Drake and his new lover.


    The rival company had threatened her that they had an exclusive contract with the tournament! If she would pursue to interview with the Chronos squad, the possibility of getting into trouble was also big!


    While Jing Jing was caught in a deep trance, the figure of Sofia emerged in the hallway and was walking towards her.


    "How''s the proposal?" Sofia casually approached.


    The clear tone in her voice pulled Jing Jing out of her reverie. Jing Jing shook her head gently and offered a generous smile while they had eye contact.


    "The proposal is here, ma''am," Jing Jing subconsciously stated and offered her phone to Sofia.


    She waited for several breaths as Sofia looked over the files.


    "Okay, come with me," Sofia nodded afterward and turned away.


    ''Our age gap was obviously big. But this young lady''s tone... this is not just a simple voice of a young lady ordering something. It''s different! There is so much authority on the way she spoke! Which elite family could this young lady belong to?'' Jing Jing continued to walk next to Sofia. She was secretly observing the young lady while a lot of thoughts came into her mind.


    Working in the press company allowed Jing Jing to have various experiences dealing with rude and bratty teens. She had a fair share amount of being dictated by a much younger and demanding client. However, she could not help but compare how Sofia''s voice gave a different effect on her.


    Just the simple ''come with me'' from Sofia made all her worry about the possible conflict of FDS Press Company gone!


    Jing Jing cast a quick look from Sofia on her overall figure. ''She is standing beside me and we are almost the same height. But why do I felt as if this young lady is like a tower that I need to look up?''


    Jing Jing could not help but examined her thoughts as she felt that Sofia seemed so high. Even her boss Wang does not have the capacity to make her feel so small!


    "Sister Jing, I have looked through the contract and I will make a few revisions on it." Sofia started to speak while her face was still looking on Jing Jing''s phone.


    "What matters do you want to revise, ma''am?" Jing Jing politely asked.


    Her words made Sofia paused. In her last life, she had heard this line from her secretary often times. Such a nostalgic phrase that occurred in her memories. ''What matters do you want to revise, ma''am?''


    The two became silent for a few breaths. One was waiting for a response, the other was reminiscing her memories in the past...


    "It''s good that you make the contract exclusive. I will agree to it. But, I don''t want the arrangement in clause 8, refers to the finances. It says that we will be paid for several thousand?" Sofia suddenly spoke while Jing Jing was still busy observing her overall appearance.


    "OH! Regarding the salary, this is the usual amount our company pays to our client. The price is six digits and that is very reasonable," Jing Jing stated.


    She had made a bunch of other contracts that involved a team before. Hence, Jing Jing was aware that what she was offering was more than sufficient for Sofia''s squad.


    The two of them continued walking leisurely down the hallway. The way they talk was too casual that it was like a conversation between two friends.


    Not even a single person inside the gym would suspect that these two figures were in the middle of negotiating a serious contract!


    "Reasonable," Sofia mumbled while looking for another term in her mind.


    At this point, there were too many formalities that they have disregarded. First, Jing Jing created the contract on a gaming computer shop. In a normal circumstance, this kind of document needed to be crafted inside a private office with a lawyer!


    On top of it, the discussion of contract should normally happen at the quiet meeting place, private office, or conference room!


    Even Jing Jing realized that their arrangement right now was very unconventional! But as she observed, Sofia seemed to not mind about this trivial matter. Perhaps, she also understood the overall situation.


    "I agree that this is a reasonable price. These six digits can be divided by me and my teammates equally. However, I want to negotiate," Sofia paused and looked at Jing Jing in the eye.


    "Negotiate? Of course! Ehem!" Jing Jing cleared her throat concealing the surprised tone in her voice.


    Sofia did agree that the price that the lady had written for their salary was reasonable. However, she also knew that it was negotiable!


    "I want a 25% of the earning for every published article about my squad, regardless of the form," Sofia directly said.


    Upon hearing her words, Jing Jing coughed violently. She choked herself with her own saliva!


    Nothing could prepare her for what Sofia would negotiate. She thought that the young lady would ask for an increased amount of their salary. But it turned out that she wanted a share of the overall profit from their exposure!


    No matter how experienced Jing Jing was, this kind of negotiation was still beyond her! She had never experienced that the other party would ask for a percentage rather than the fixed amount!


    "You want a 25% of the earning? Young miss, I cannot decide this. I have to call and consult my boss first," Jing Jing took a deep breath after recovering from her initial shock.


    "Yes, please. That''s the only revision that I want to make. If your boss will agree, then we can proceed to sign this contract," Sofia told Jing Jing and returned her mobile phone.


    "Okay, miss. Please excuse me," Jing Jing bowed and moved a little farther from Sofia.


    "I''ll wait here," Sofia said and stood on the opposite corner of the hallway.

 Chapter 69 - An Ultimatum

    "Jing Jing, I have allowed you to take a day off. Why are you calling me again? I''m monitoring something!" Boss Wang answered the phone call with slight annoyance.


    He was looking at his computer with the trending media discussions and felt downcast. He made a deep reflection of their loss, that they have not gained any piece of scope from the viral topics of the online tournament.


    On the other line, Jing Jing winced at the direct irritated voice of the man. "Boss Wang, forget about that day off! I have something to report and this is urgent. I have contacted the Chronos squad--"


    "What did you say?! You got the Chronos squad?" Boss Wang interrupted as he stood from his seat.


    Just below his screen, another window was opened, revealing the ongoing interview of the district tournament. It was a live broadcast from the FDS Press Company. And the interviewer just announced that the next squad on their show would be the Chronos squad.


    The live broadcast in the small screen had been paused for more than ten minutes as they interviewer was waiting for the members of the Chronos squad. The players just happened to be unavailable.


    After listening to Jing Jing, boss Wang grasped the situation. It could only mean one thing! With Jing Jing contacting the Chronos squad, she was delaying the FDS live broadcast interview of the group!


    Boss Wang suddenly felt delighted.


    "Aiiyahh! Boss Wang, calm down. I have spoken with the Chronos squad and we are finalizing a contract," Jing Jing started to explain.


    "C-contract? But-- but why?" Boss Wang felt that in the situation like this, they could just pay their client even without a contract. He gently massaged the bridge of his nose while trying to clear his thoughts.


    In fact, those other participants in the tournament did not demand any contract from the FDS Press Company too! They just easily agreed to be interviewed directly for the sake of publicity. No one even thought that they could profit just by appearing in the media.


    "AHH, Boss Wang why are you surprise!? Aren''t we offering contracts with our clients?" Jing Jing asked in confusion. She could not understand her boss asking why the contract exist.


    "Jing Jing, those clients are big shots! We only offer contracts to those who would give us big profits. For the other ordinary clients, we can pay them with fix amount," Boss Wang reasoned which reminded Jing Jing the contract offer was not as simple. Their company does not offer contracts to anybody.


    "Oh, yes... I-- I have forgotten and made a contract similar to the big shots. Boss Wang, should I cancel the contract?" Jing Jing asked softly. She felt dizzy by the sudden realization that the Chronos squad was just group of teen gamers.


    Cancel the contract? Boss Wang slightly panicked when Jing Jing asked his advice. In the end, he heaved a frustrated sigh and compromised.


    "No need to cancel the contract. Tell me what are the conditions that the Chronos wants?" Boss Wang finally asked the main concern of the call.


    "Boss Wang, its like this. I have placed a fixed amount of six figure as the payment of the group. But the Chronos wanted to negotiate the clause about our payment. The Chronos squad wants to change it to 25% share of the earnings from their publicity," Jing Jing explained.


    "Are you joking?! 25%...  This... t-they don''t want a fix payment of their exposure but a share of profit? They must have some guts! Even other known celebrity would pay our company for their exposure! Just who are you negotiating with, Jing Jing?" Boss Wang exclaimed in disbelief. His voice became cold and unfriendly. At first he thought that it was an easy matter to deal with. But, it turned out that it was not as simple as he expected!


    "Boss Wang, this is why I called you! I am speaking with the team captain of the Chronos squad. She said that if you agree with the 25%, we can proceed to sign the contract," Jing Jing mumbled hopelessly. She also understood the sudden change of demeanor of her boss.


    Jing Jing also think that they could still agree if Sofia asked for an increase of their payment. But for her to change the payment scheme from a fixed amount to a relative share, it was something that no teenager would be able to ask.


    This kind of negotiation had just never happened.


    "Fine! I''ll agree to that deal. However, there must be an ultimatum. If they become champion, we will continue with this arrangement. But if they don''t win in this tournament, everything will be terminated!" Boss Wang finally reached to a more clear decision. Since the other party was asking for a share of profit, he had to raise his stake as well to avoid being taken advantage.


    The man was not also easy to deal with. He would never agree to something long term if it is bot beneficial for his company.


    "Okay. Boss Wang, I will discuss the new terms with the Chronos squad captain. Bye!" Jing Jing beamed and quickly disconnected the call. She was afraid that her boss might change his mind and really cancel the contract agreement.


    On the other side of the line, Boss Wang was wiping the large beads of sweat in his forehead. The call just gave him a tension that he had never experienced before.


    In an instant, he grab his chair and took a seat. He immediately searched the profiles of the Chronos squad members. But after looking through what the internet could provide, he was not satisfied.


    "Could it be that someone was directing behind these teenagers? Perhaps some competitors are giving them instructions?" Boss Wang was completely skeptical. He had thought of the possibility that somebody may have directed the Chronos squad to form an alliance with his company.


    He reached to his personal contacts and called a private investigator immediately. "It''s impossible for these lads to think of this kind of arrangement! I must check their backgrounds just to be safe."


    In the media business, anything could be possible. Disaster could easily befall to those who does not exercise precaution. It was normal for the man to be wary since  he was not even familiar with the Chronos squad.

 Chapter 70 - Deal!

    Boss Wang waited only a few minutes when he received the response from the investigator that he just contacted. He was only requesting for a quick background check to see if the Chronos squad members would come as a potential threat to him to his company.


    When Boss Wang opened the email response, he sighed in relief. The content said only couple of sentences.


    ''One of them is the son of the prominent Zhang-Rosen family. The rest are mere students from Seventh District.''


    "Zhang - Rosen family... Interesting! So there is no rival company directing this group! How can they request such unusual payment? Hmmm, is it that son from the Zhang?" Boss Wang propped his head on his elbow while staring at the screen window below his monitor. He immediately recognized the parents of Clark but he did not consider them as enemy. The family was well-respected in the entire district.


    After a while, he dismissed all his suspicions he had on the group and focused on the show that he was watching.


    He had been following the live broadcast of the FDS Press Company. But now that one of his employees got a hold of the Chronos squad, he was certain that something great is coming for his company.


    ~


    Back in the public gym hallway, Jing Jing was smiling from ear to ear.


    "Ma''am, I had a brief discussion with my boss and he accepted your requirement of the 25% share profit for all the exposure of your squad. But..." Jing Jing trailed and looked at Sofia cautiously.


    As this two resumed their discussion, the third elimination round also started. The noises began to get louder as other contending squads were playing for their match.


    "But what?" Sofia stifled a laugh seeing Jing Jing''s guarded expression.


    "Uhm, my boss said that your squad needs to become a champion. If you don''t win this tournament, our agreement would also be terminated," Jing Jing quickly conveyed. Somehow, she was hesitant to speak of the condition for it may distract the gameplay of the Chronos squad. The pressure may give a negative psychological effect on the group.


    Jing Jing expected Sofia to argue but she only saw a calm composure on the young lady''s face. Her lips slightly curled upwards as she nodded.


    "Deal!" Sofia affirmed looking completely relaxed.


    In reality, the matter of payment and winning, she had already made considerations with as well as the contract arrangement.


    The moment she gave a piece of paper containing her contact information to Jing Jing, she was done formulating the necessary things needed for her squad.


    The only thing she was waiting for was for Jing Jing to contact her.


    For some experts in business world, Sofia''s request might be a daring and risky move. They may even think that its too early for her to draw some sort of demands. Such demand sounded ridiculous even. Especially with the ultimatum. It could mean that great potential of losses might incur from their squad.


    If the press company generated low income from them, their share would also low. If they failed to become champions of the tournament, they would not gain profit as well.


    In such a case, it would be better if their squad would agree to get a fixed amount. Such an arrangement would be less hassle and stressful. All they need to do was to go in an interview and get the money.


    However, Sofia was not anxious about the negative possibilities of her decisions.


    She was confident that the value of the Chronos squad was more than just a fixed amount. With her specific 25% profit request, it only signified that their value was bound to multiply.


    To say, it could be seen as an irony. She had set a specific value for her squad but the price was not fixed.


    "We are here to be the champion," Sofia playfully added in a more hushed tone. Jing Jing only giggled and typed something in her phone.


    At this point, Sofia knew that with the performance that they have shown in the earlier games, it was already enough to secure a profit.


    Their performances on the earlier matched had a purpose. It was not just to impress their viewers nor to show off their skills. There was more to it that only Sofia knew.


    And with the ultimatum from Jing Jing''s boss, it was already part of their goal. Even if the ultimatum does not exist, the Chronos squad still planned to conquer the championship.


    "Great! Then, let''s sign the contract," Jing Jing stated after she was done revising the file on her device.


    "Right. Hmmm, for the signing of contracts, I''ll have our two members as a representative," Sofia spoke.


    "Representative?" Jing Jing raised her brow. Then she stared at the young face of Sofia.


    At that moment, it just occurred to her that this teenager that she was negotiating with might still be underage to sign their documents!


    Jing Jing shivered of the thought. She usually do her research about her scope but because of the betrayal of Drake, she failed to get all the information needed of the Chronos squad!


    "Joey and Stephen will represent the Chronos squad in our contract. I''ll introduce you to the rest of the Chronos teammates," Sofia replied with a clear voice.


    "Okay?" Jing Jing muttered but the end of her tone was in a form of a question.


    Her suspicion was right. Sofia can only negotiate and examine a contract because of her previous life as the CEO of the Summers Holdings. But for her current age, she was just 17! She was not yet legal to sign any formal documents!


    When they reached the booth, the four Chronos squad members stood from their seats and gave a customary bow to Jing Jing.


    They offered a friendly smile and waved their hands.


    Sofia had told them before she left the booth earlier that she would meet the person that would handle their potential private press. And if she brings another person in, it meant their group had secured the matter about their publicity.


    The group exchanged ''hellos'' and a brief introduction was done by Sofia. After the formalities, the Chronos squad members eventually welcomed Jing Jing like a big sister.


    "Here is the app... Just set your digital signature on," Jing Jing pointed a logo from her screen and showed it to Joey and Stephen.


    Since their contract was only a soft copy, they would proceed to place their digital signature on it. One of the many convenient ways that technology had offered in the business industry.


    Just as Stephen was about to create his digital signature, Sofia gestured for him to stop.


    All of them looked at her curiously. Even Jing Jing became tensed by the sudden action of Sofia.


    ''Did she change her mind?'' Jing Jing asked in her mind.


    "What?" Stephen looked up at her and asked.


    "Read the contract first before placing your signature," Sofia simply replied as she noticed that he did not even glance at the content of the contract.


    He was ready to place his signature without knowing what he was agreeing to!


    "But---" Stephen muttered. ''Didn''t you review this contract before?'' he wanted to add. However, he could only utter one word. It would not sound good if he voiced out the rest of his thoughts.

 Chapter 71 - First Contract Finalized

    Stephen could only scratch the back of his head and proceed to read the content of the contract.


    ''Young people, tsk tsk tsk,'' Sofia secretly thought as she leaned her back on the seat.


    On the other end of the sofa, Jing Jing heaved a sigh of relief after realizing that the young lady just wanted the two representatives to read the contract first.


    She also wanted to suggest checking the contract to them at first, but was too hesitant and decided to be quiet and observe the group.


    Just like Stephen, Joey''s face also looked helpless.


    The two men acted as if they were forced to do some sort of a hard and impossible quest.


    "This... there are so many words in here, Sof! Wow, this file is full of words!" Joey started to complained after few minutes of reading it. He was never fond of reading wordy articles. And there were even terms that were beyond his comprehension.


    "Sof, did you read the contract already?" Clark curiously asked while peeking at the file on the phone.


    "Yes, I have checked it and made some revisions," Sofia answered.


    "Wow! You actually like reading that?!" Claire also questioned and felt amazed.


    "Then, it''s fine to sign this now, right? I have never read a contract in my life before! Since you have checked it, I''ll just place my sign, Sof," Joey grumbled.


    "The content of the contract is one thing but it''s your signature who would appear on it. The two of you will be the representative of our squad for this deal, so, it is essential that you know the details of what you are signing," Sofia told her members.


    Claire and Clark gulped silently on the side. They felt as if Sofia was like a teacher lecturing them about how important to read the file. Even her tone was stern and her face was serious.


    "Sometimes, Sofia talks like my mother," Clark leaned closer at Claire and subtly commented.


    "Mmm, I don''t know why she is too particular with these things. The Sofia I know was heavily addicted to online games. She would not even go out of her unit sometimes. She can spend an entire day just by playing online!" Claire also whispered back at him emphasizing the characteristic of her friend before.


    "Ahh, the two of you, read the contract too," Sofia caught the two after noticing their subtle exchange of conversations.


    "Wow, I don''t understand this at all!" Stephen was the next to complain. This time, he did not hesitate to voice out his troubles. He was not even ashamed of it as he was certain that some of the contract terms were too difficult for him to comprehend.


    "Contracts are like this. In a regular company, pro players have their legal team to handle the negotiation and settlement of this matter. But, we can''t afford to form a legal team yet. So, just endure reading that file for now. In the future, we will have our legal team," Sofia expressed.


    Jing Jing who just sat silently and waited for the group to sign the contract was moved by Sofia''s words. She had never met someone so young that acted like her.


    For some reason, she was inspired by how the young lady encourage her peers and how mature her way of dealing with the contract. Jing Jing secretly wiped the side of her eyes as it began to mist.


    Several minutes passed and the group finally settled and signed the contract.


    Jing Jing stared at their signatures for a while. Then she looked at them in the eye and said, "I will forward this to our legal department so that it will be notarized. Then, I will send you a copy of the finished contract."


    To seal their deal and make their documents valid, it was necessary to notarize the files. Jing Jing felt the need to inform the group in case they were not aware of the procedure. It was necessary for them to undergo with such degree of formality as they wanted to avoid fraud and make their agreement legal.


    "No problem, we can set an interview here in our booth too. But our group will be playing the third elimination round now. So, maybe, we can work together after this round, or whichever convenient time you have in mind." Sofia suggested.


    "That is so thoughtful of you, ma''am," Jing Jing admired how Sofia did not demand an interview right away. She actually asked her if there would be a much more convenient time to do the interview!


    "Sister Jing, you can just call me by my name. I felt so old if you call me that. You are still my senior and I am also a student," Sofia clasped her fingers and told Jing Jing.


    "Haha, okay. Then, I will get--" Jing Jing halted when she saw that Rica was calling her. "For a while, Sofia, I need to take this. It''s my companion," she explained and exited the booth.


    The host on the stage announced the Chronos squad and the group proceed to walk towards their lounge.


    Jing Jing only waved her hand and gave them an encouraging smile while the audience cheered for the group.


    "Jing Jing, where are you? I was about to call the police and report you as a missing person!" Rica hissed on the phone.


    "Haha, sorry. I got a big scope! I''m here at the player''s booth to interview the participants," Jing Jing felt guilty that she did not inform her friend about her whereabouts.


    "Really? So much for having a day off! Haha that''s great! You could have told me about this earlier!" Rica sounded.


    "Yes, I should have! But, I was just too caught up in this sudden opportunity that I had forgotten to call you! I am interviewing the Chronos squad!" Jing Jing stated.


    "Oh my god! Are you for real? They are playing right now! How did you approach the group?" Rica sounded delighted.


    "It was a long story! I have bumped with their team captain earlier but I thought that she was my fan. So I did not think too much of it when she handed me a piece of paper. But, as I went to the comfort room, I saw her in the booth. And when I examined the paper she gave during our encounter, it was her contact details!" Jing Jing spoke rapidly like a news reporter.


    "That''s great! I will join you!" Rica immediately presented and stood in her seat.


    "Ohh, no, no, no. You are on a date! I can take care of this!" Jing Jing instantly refused.


    "Hehehe, and how do you plan to interview them alone? Don''t worry about my date! Maxwell is fine. We will help you set up," Rica insisted.

 Chapter 72 - Drag Them!

    "Sisters, how do we appease our viewers? They are demanding for the interview of the Chronos squad! Now they are calling us liars in the comments!" the interviewer from the FDS Press Company worriedly urged Miss AN and the team manager.


    It had been half an hour since their live broadcast was paused because they assured the netizens to get the members of the Chronos squad to join their show.


    Some of their viewers prepared questions for the group but after more than ten minutes of waiting, they started throwing nasty comments that made the interviewer almost cry.


    "Eh? Miss, why did you tell the audience that you will interview the Chronos squad in a moment? I have told you that the squad rejected our invitation. They have their own press to handle their publicity!" AN frowned at the staff of the press company. In her mind, the interviewer was at fault for being in a difficult situation.


    AN had informed this woman and her team manager about the Chronos squad rejection, but still, the woman insisted on promising the public that the group would show up eventually.


    Although the two of them were both staffs of different companies and had to work together, AN was struggling to deal nicely with the interviewer.


    "Sister, if I tell the audience that the Chronos squad has their own private press, then we will lose our views! We have an exclusive contract with your organizers, why can''t we interview the Chronos squad?" the interviewer questioned.


    "Why don''t you try to ask the group again?" the interviewer added. She was certain that the tournament organizers can force the Chronos squad for an interview because of their exclusive contract.


    "This squad has really a difficult attitude! That ugly girl sounded so firm that I cannot argue with her words. Nevermind! Since they refused to be interviewed, we can inform the viewers that their team captain felt ugly and does not want to show her face on the camera!" the team leader suggested.


    The moment the Chronos squad sat on the lounge for the third elimination round, the team leader who wanted to interview them burst into a full rage.


    She even encourages the staff from their press company to give bad commentaries against the squad.


    "Team leader, that''s not right!" AN apprehended.


    "There is no other way. We need to silent our viewers! Then, I will just set to interview you, sister. And then, you will tell the public about the status of the Chronos squad?" the interviewer clarified.


    "Okay! We can do that! Ask me about the Chronos squad then I will explain why they are not available in the camera," the team leader agreed and made few scripts for their show.


    AN shook her head in disapproval. "It is better to tell the public about the truth. If we tell them about the private press of the Chronos squad, the viewers will understand. It is not good to attack the squad with their personal flaws."


    "You are just new in this industry! Some things need to be manipulated to stay on the top! Just stay silent and observe!" the team manager glared at AN.


    "With the exclusive contract in our hands, we can sue the Chronos squad for not appearing in this interview!" the interviewer supported with an arrogant tone.


    AN became speechless. She remembered her encounter with Sofia and her shoulder slightly shivered. The young lady seemed to hold a strong opinion and does not care about the publicity that they offered.


    "But if this thing backfired, it would be a more huge loss to your press company," AN gently warned the interviewer however she was already ignored by them. The two proceed to begin their interview and disregarded what she just spoke.


    ''I have a bad feeling about this but since you ignored my charitable advice, there is nothing I can do.'' AN released a frustrated sigh then slowly left the room.


    Once the interview began, the netizens started to roast the press company. While the team leader expected that they would gain public sympathy, it did not happen. Instead, it only gave them a worst result.


    Their viewers were gradually converted into bashers!


    ZanDian: They are just teenagers, why ridicule a simple pimple? Come on! You can do better, FDS!


    DragonGod: We came here for the game lady not to hear that nonsensical standard of beauty!


    Beautiful_Fairy: I am so offended! I have bad acne in my teens that caused my insecurity, why is this company announcing this thing in public?


    Carlos2: What nonsense is this?! FDS, that is out of line! #Canceldt!


    Hundreds of comments defending the Chronos squad started to pile up in the comment section that made the interviewer panicked. She felt dizzy just by reading some of the public opinions.


    Drake rushed the door opened and witnessed his crew on the verge of fainting. "What is wrong? Why are the ratings of the company dropped?"


    "Y-young master, the Chronos squad rejected our interview because their team captain had a pimple on her face. I was just telling it to the public. However, they got angry and started bashing us," the interviewer quickly stood straight as she responded.


    "They rejected our interview? We have an exclusive contract in this tournament! Drag them here if they are not willing to come! Hmmph! Just bunch of brats who does not know what''s good for them!" Drake instructed. His face turned dark after hearing the word rejection. It was something that he could not accept.


    "They can''t refuse this interview! Maybe, you did not explain to them the consequences?" the woman beside Drake questioned. She was the head of this FDS Press Company crew, but she did not monitor her team. Instead, she accompanied Drake leisurely.


    "They are in-game now, but after their match, we will do as you say, young master!" the team leader agreed.


    "Never mind, I will deal with them personally!" Drake waved his hand and exited the room.


    The team leader quickly ran towards Drake at full speed. "Young Master, the tournament does not allow it. Disturbing the players in their booths will disrupt their focus. Only us, can go to them. You can only wait here. My staff and I will surely get those brats to come, even if they are unwilling!"


    "Oh? I don''t need to follow that trivial rules!" Drake insisted and continued to move his feet towards the player''s booth. The team leader and AN turned silent and followed his lead.


    The moment they arrived on the player''s booth, there were three figures sitting on the sofa.


    A murderous aura instantly emitted around Drake after recognizing the figures.


    "What are you doing here?" his tone become deadly while his eyes darted to the person that he feared to show up.

 Chapter 73 - Confrontation And Threats

    Jing Jing was startled by the sudden appearance of Drake and other people behind him.


    She cleared her throat and concealed her surprised expression with a deep scowl.


    "Didn''t you said that only staff can disturb the players in their booths? These three people do not look like they are members of the tournament staff, no? Why are they allowed to stay in this booth!?" Drake turned his head and faced the team leader.


    "Young master, please calm down!" AN intervene upon seeing that Drake almost grabbed the collar of her team leader. She could tell that the man lost his gentleman bearing after knowing the three figures were in the booth of the Chronos squad.


    "Miss Jing Jing, are you here to make trouble? We warned you before! Do you perhaps insist on getting a scope for this tournament?!" the woman behind Drake glowered.


    "Yo!!! These cheaters have come to make trouble for my friend? How shameless!" Rica was the first to speak while her boyfriend draped a hand on her shoulder. She witnessed Drake and the woman at the couple''s caf¨¦ acting like a real couple and was offended on behalf of her friend. Now that the two appeared in front of her, she was eager to fight them!


    "Please calm down every one or I will call security!" AN took the initiative to remind both sides to act civil. She could sense that an argument was about to form if she does not act fast. Her slender arms held up side by side as if she was a referee of some sort of fight.


    "Are you perhaps the private press of the Chronos squad?" the team leader could not help but ask. She somehow felt a more intense headache.


    Jing Jing was well-known in district 7. Her company was always on top. If the FDS Press Company did not approach the tournament organizer earlier, they would definitely seek a partnership with Jing Jing''s company!


    "P-private press? How could it be?!" Drake exclaimed in disbelief. In the past, Jing Jing would share information about her work. And not once did the lady mentioned the Chronos squad.


    "Yes, our company will take care of the publicity for the Chronos squad. There is no need for a trashy company to get involved with a high-caliber gamer! Tsk!" Rica responded before Jing Jing could voiced out a reply. She made sure to emphasize the word ''trashy company'' and deliberately glanced at Drake and his woman.


    While the verbal argument ensued inside the booth, the five members of the Chronos squad finally finished their match. It lasted for only 13 minutes before they destroyed their enemy''s base.


    The group quickly exited the lounge and the sound of the commentators giving the highlights of their match followed in the background.


    "Why are there so many people in our booth?" Clark asked while gazing at the small space.


    "Hehehe, do we have fans asking for our signature?" Joey joked.


    "Maybe they are part of the interview?" Claire also made a guess.


    The group felt enthusiastic. It would be their first time to be interviewed however, when they almost reached their booth, they could sense an undeniable tension inside.


    "What is happening?" Clark mumbled anxiously. He glanced at Sofia with a worried look on his face.


    "Don''t worry about it. Stand straight and don''t slouch," Sofia assured and reminded them of their posture. She immediately noticed the figure of AN and the team leader. With the two familiar figures, she quickly deduced that there might be an ongoing disagreement inside.


    Sofia''s stepped into the booth and stood with an aura of dominance. Her members also stood the same. Although the four members were not aware, their posture actually looked dignified. Sofia''s reminder for them to stand straight and avoid slouching made this kind of impact on their onlookers possible.


    "Hello! Is there a problem?" Sofia simply asked and the initial tension around the booth was replaced with a more scarier atmosphere. All the people in the place become silent as they saw Sofia''s figure resembled that of her tank character mightily standing and was ready to charge anytime.


    The young lady looked at them in the eye, but they avoided making eye contact with her. The entire booth remained hushed as they gazed at the other members of the Chronos squad.


    ''How can these brats looked so dignified?'' Drake wondered. The way the group stood in front of him felt strange. It was as if the air became suffocating for him to breathe.


    There was something inside him that felt compelled the moment he made eye contact with Sofia.


    "We are the FDS Press Company and your squad is obliged to join in our interview!" Drake finally found the courage to speak up. But his voice seemed to have lost its authority that even he, himself could not explain.


    "Hmmn? Mister, with all due respect, that is incorrect. We are not obliged for the interview of your press. My squad will handle our own publicity," Sofia replied with a stern yet calm voice. It was the kind of tone that was strict and dismissive. Something that Drake did not expect to hear.


    "Well, you are wrong to think that you are not obliged! We have secured an exclusive contract with the organizers of this tournament. Even if you don''t want to, you have to show respect to this contract. Or, we will sue you and your squad will be disqualified!" Drake smirked having found the confidence of reasoning the dire consequence if the Chronos squad did not follow his request.


    "I don''t think we will suffer that much. On the other hand, I can throw your company out of this gym for harassment! What you are doing is disrupting us. I believe these two staff would be happy to explain this kind of consequences to your group!" Sofia gestured at AN and her team leader. Her tone remained respectful but the words she said was like a sharp sword ready to slay the man.


    Drake became speechless for the second time. His eyes traveled at Sofia''s figure from head to foot. There was nothing special in her outfit. She does not even look noble. However, the way she spoke sounded as if she had a figure greater than a mountain.


    "Ehem, if the tournament staff failed to tell you of this simple rule, I will do the honor to call security and throw you out of this place. Don''t come here and threaten my team for possible disqualification. If you are capable, do your best and sue us!" Sofia added with a cold tone when the other person did not respond to her.

 Chapter 74 - Twist Of Fate

    "Fine! Since you are challenging me, I will definitely celebrate once your squad gets disqualified!" Drake stomped his feet and walked away. His face looked disoriented out of anger. But since the lady countered his threats with harassment, he had no choice but to leave!


    "Jing Jing, you are no good! We will sue your company for this too! And you, young miss! No matter how good the skills of your group are, it is useless once you get disqualified!" the woman behind Drake spoke before she turned around and followed the man.


    The team leader reluctantly departed with AN beside her.


    "Wow, are we going to be disqualified because of an interview?" Claire crossed her arms on her chest while watching the figures of Drake and his companions marching in the hallway.


    "We have no obligation to comply with their request," Sofia said while taking a deep breath. She combed the side of her hair and gathered them behind her ear. The redness of her skin just above her jawline was visible to see.


    Sofia does not have any grievance nor animosity of the FDS Press Company. She was not even so concerned about their status. It just so happened that she met Jing Jing which gave her a preference to work with her.


    However, if the FDS Press Company would create an issue and attack her, she would be willing to face the group with her head held high.


    Meanwhile...


    Unbeknownst to the group, a war among the netizens was also happening on social media because of this pimple in Sofia''s face! Some joked about it while others have been defensive for her. The issue was circulating but the center of the topic does not seem to care.


    On the other side, the three figures on the booth were also stupefied.


    "My gosh! This young lady has a stronger backbone than the two of us combined, Jing Jing!" Rica whispered while observing Sofia. Even Maxwell looked at the group with admiration and respect. It was such a rare sight to see a teenager calmly confronting someone older than her.


    Not only that this young lady looked brave, but she was also able to subdue the man in less than a minute!


    Only those who possessed a terrifying psychological power can establish this kind of dominance. Even those nurtured sons and daughters with noble backgrounds could not emit this kind of impact.


    In the world of media, they have witnessed several disagreements and fights. They also interviewed many unruly and aggressive people. This kind of confrontation was not new in their eyes, but such a thing usually involved shouting and yelling to the point that it would become physical!


    "This young lady has the potential to go beyond the successful figures in the real world," Maxwell mumbled with a meaningful look on his face.


    "We negotiated the contract earlier," Jing Jing subconsciously responded. Her face also revealed deep admiration. ''It might be early to judge but I could not deny the fact that this young lady is more than capable. Whether it is a corporate affair or a direct confrontation, her potential is beyond her age,'' She secretly added.


    "Sometimes, this kind of personality is copied from the gaming character. When players play a strong character, they will also be influenced by the character," Maxwell analyzed. He believed that Sofia''s undaunting personality was a result of having a strong gaming character. The lady may have imitated her in-game character and act it in real life.


    "Is that really possible?" Rica absentmindedly asked in full doubt.


    "Why else could that five look dignified? That really possible, hon," Maxwell brushed Rica''s shoulder as the two shared a gentle smile.


    When Sofia turned her attention back to Jing Jing, her smile looked friendly.


    "Sorry about that. It''s a misunderstanding," she muttered.


    "Yes, I think so. Anyway, Sofia, this two are my companions. The beautiful lady is named Rica. And this gentleman is Maxwell," Jing Jing pursed her lips and introduced the two.


    "Hello, seniors. I''m Sofia, then, my teammates, Claire, Clark, Joey, and Stephen," she replied casually but she sneaked a glance at the man sitting next to Jing Jing.


    "Oh, I know you! You are from the Gu family! Your family has a partnership with my father. But you probably did not know me!" Clark chuckled while staring at Maxwell.


    "I know you, hehe. You are the youngest son of the Zhang''s. But, we have never had a chance to meet in the past," Maxwell immediately recognized Clark.


    The two men proceed to exchange more pleasantries when Sofia stiffened just by hearing the full name of the man.


    Maxwell Gu.


    ''Wow! In my previous life, my secretary''s husband is named Maxwell Gu! But in this life, he is in a relationship with her friend?'' Sofia bit her lips and thought deeply.


    Sofia''s eyes slowly darted to Rica and the lady also looked at her. Both of them offered a friendly smiled before they look away.


    ''In my previous life, Miss Jing Jing is already married when she worked as my secretary. Now that I think of it, this Maxwell indeed had the same look as her husband... Ahhh, I don''t have to get involved with their affairs... But, could it be that Jing Jing snatched Maxwell from her friend? Or how did they become husband and wife in my past life and not in a relationship now?'' Sofia continued to ponder. But because she also had no basis and past experience when it comes to relationships, she could only wonder.


    "Shall we start the interview?" Jing Jing happily chirped without noticing the sudden seriousness of Sofia''s face.


    "I''ll hold the camera while Jing Jing and your group will do question and answer," Rica also beamed with an expensive camera in her hands.


    "Yes, let''s start!" Sofia inhaled and then ignored the slight burden that she felt in her chest. ''The two seemed to have a good relationship, I wonder what twist of fate their future holds.'' A last lingering thought escaped in her mind.

 Chapter 75 - Different Views

    Moments passed like a blur.


    The organizers of the tournament wanted to make more delays for the time of the championship match but because the participants were eager to show off their skill, almost all of the matches ended in the early game.


    Some won because of their aggressiveness while others were defeated because of their lack of patience.


    Then the golden hour finally arrived and the discussion about the championship match began to circulate. All other previous topics were buried and shifted down to two squads.


    The Chronos Squad vs The Lee Gaming Squad


    The internet dubbed their battle as the famous premium players vs the monster newbies.


    On top of all the online discussions, the official page of the Lee Gaming squad published a post that hyped all spectators.


    ~


    "We will crush the Chronos squad!"


    ~


    Comments from their fans and anti-fans rolled crazily like a gigantic waved from the ocean that reached the seashore.


    Kiethh2: Defeat the newbies with your money!


    Lily_Goddess: Your squad can only show off your character''s skins but there are no skills.


    Geo: Crush the Chronos squad!


    MidlanerPro: Good luck. I hope your wealth can help on the battlefield!


    The comments were mostly about money as the Lee Gaming squad was reasonably the richest group in the District 7. They were known for their money and gallant in-game skins.


    Yes, not skills but skins!


    These were the attire of the characters in the game done by modifications and upgrades to beautify animation effects inside the battlefield.


    Every time the game updates with a new skin, the Lee Gaming squad players were the first to buy and use them.


    They are just rich by default as these members were not simple figures of their society. They were heirs of successful corporations.


    Since the tournament was still on a snack break to give players and staff some time to rest for the finale, the audience online and on the venue could only wait.


    Few moments after the official post of the Lee Gaming squad was published, a short video clip of Jing Jing and Sofia was also posted for the public.


    But unlike the domineering post of the Lee Gaming squad crushing them, this video clip expressed a more friendly vibe.


    In the video, Jing Jing only asked one question...


    "The Chronos squad finally reached the championship match, as the tank user, uhmm, CEO UNRIVALED, how do you feel about your final opponent, the Lee Gaming squad?"


    The camera then showed a young lady with short hair and simple clothes. Her appearance resembled that of an ordinary teenager. Such appearance was too plain like a commoner.


    But the moment her lips curled, and her eyes locked at the camera, one could see the mature confidence and calmness in her expression. The aura was too strong and visible as if it was demanding all the viewers to stare at her.


    Sofia gave the camera an elegant and relaxed smile. She clasped her fingers before she responded...


    "Their founder is a friend."


    The video clip ended just after she slightly nodded her head.


    And what''s even more interesting was that the caption of this video expressed a more subtle message that invites the netizen to follow the Chronos squad page...


    "Follow the official site of The Chronos Squad to see more updates!"


    It was obviously just a bait, but the viewers were willing to take it!


    This official site was not run by Sofia nor any members of her squad. It was administered by Jing Jing''s company as it was stipulated in their exclusive contract that the company would be responsible for all their publicity across all platforms.


    Such a contract gave the Chronos squad convenience.


    As for the 25% share profit for their income, in their current situation, it was a fair amount.  Sofia was aware of how much the press company would work and labor cost, hence, she deliberately gave 75% to them.


    Boss Wang, the boss of the press company, also did not give too much thought to this arrangement for he had slightly estimated that the squad had an existing five members. And perhaps, the 25% would be shared to 5% in every member.


    It did not occur to their mind that this arrangement would give them both the leverage to get sufficient funding and be recognized in the long run.


    "Sof, do you really know Brent Lee? I mean, this rich kid is aloof and cold. Plus, he had taken over his family''s business! He is famous!" the members inquired and glanced at the other booth where the Lee Gaming squad was occupying.


    "We are friends online. Some games in the past years," Sofia casually replied.


    In the interview, she was not aware of the published post from the Lee Gaming squad. Her response was her sincerity and it was an acknowledgment of the friendship bond that she once shared with the man.


    But because the video clip was too short, the netizens were frantic!


    One squad claiming to crush their opponent, while the other squad was expressing a connection of friendship!


    Everyone was conflicted of the different views!


    Not long after, the official site of the Chronos squad was flocked with subscribers and followers. It even surpassed the official site of Jing Jing''s company!


    "Wow, this is crazy! Boss Wang, this new site that you requested to create is blowing at the top! We don''t even need to contact our connections to give some fans accounts for this!" a man in his mid-twenties called. He was assigned to facilitate the site but he never expected to see such insane progress of fans in less than an hour of its creation.


    "That''s good! Hehehe The 1st Online Tournament became the center of attention of the online discussion and 75% of the profit in this site will be ours. Maybe we can use the money to expand our company!" Boss Wang became delighted and started to imagine the sponsorship and other deals that they could get. It was like an instant money for him! Then he suddenly became quiet... ''Ahh, I should not give that ultimatum!''


    Somehow he felt regretful giving a condition to the squad. Based on the numbers of their fans, even if the Chronos squad would be defeated, they have gained a solid count to make a profit.

 Chapter 76 - Heated Discussion (1)

    "The main organizers asked to speak to a representative of your squad," AN returned to the Chonos squad booth for the third time.


    "Is it about that disqualification issue of that FDS press?" Joey inquired with a visible frown on his face. He worriedly glanced at Sofia''s side to see her reaction. But the lady remained calm in her seat.


    "The organizers won''t let us rest for this break? We must have pissed them for refusing the interview! But still..." Clark also complained but stopped in mid sentence.


    "It''s fine! I''m told that it''s just a short discussion," AN looked sympathetic to the group.


    The organizers were indeed on an emergency meeting after Drake complained that the Chronos squad did not agree to be interviewed by them.


    They wanted to get the Chronos squad side and know the situation first, hence, they asked a representative to have a quick talk.


    "Miss, it was you who refused the interview by the FDS Press Company, I think it''s best if you talk with the organizers? I am just part of the staff here, but I think it''s better to express your thoughts openly about this matter," AN looked at Sofia and hinted her to come.


    "No problem. I''ll talk to them. Lead the way," Sofia stood from her seat. Then she glanced at her members and Jing Jing with a thoughtful expression, "I''ll be back."


    AN guided Sofia to a room with a sign. "No Entry for Unauthorized Person"


    She pushed open and bowed at the seniors sitting on the long table. Then, AN moved to the side and let Sofia entered.


    "Good Afternoon! I''m Sofia from the Chronos squad!" Sofia''s greeting was casual as she walked inside. She glanced at the people around as if memorizing their faces.


    There are seven people sitting around the table and there was no available empty seat for her. It only meant one thing. They did not see her presence as important.


    "Young lady, what is this complaint that we received? Your squad is refusing to get an interview with our press?" The man sitting in the center of the table questioned right away.


    "Did you or did you not expect for me to come here?" Sofia asked back, completely ignoring the initial question from the man.


    Her tone sent chills at the back of her spine that all of the people in the room sat frozen for a few seconds.


    "What question is that? We have called one representative of the Chronos squad, of course, we are expecting any member would show up! Or could it be that your squad don''t want to comply in this discussion too?" the man clicked his tongue and his face turned sour.


    "The issue is not about compliance," Sofia responded. Her posture did not falter despite the tone of the man.


    "Bah! If you think that it is not about compliance, then what should be the issue?" the old man retorted. The other people sitting along with him secretly took a breath as the atmosphere around became uncomfortable.


    "The issue is your lack of respect," Sofia answered calmly. Her eyes were clear and there was no sign of emotion that can be read on it.


    "I''m not sure if I am following you, young miss! What do you mean by that? Lack of respect? Its your squad who refused to be interviewed with our press?! In this case, it''s you who have no respect for our choice for the publicity of this tournament!" another man who sat on the left side of the table helped to reason with Sofia.


    "No sir, you are not following me. The lack of respect is not about the interview. That''s for us to discuss later. Right now, it''s about how you treat me, right at this moment. You claimed to have expected anyone in my team to show up in this room. Why is there no chair for me to use?" Sofia demanded. Her voice is low but she spoke every word with clarity.


    A deafening silence followed to engulfed them. Some people even looked away and pretended to be busy.


    It turned out that the young lady had seen through their malicious motives!


    They had indeed purposely removed one chair out of the room for the reason that they wanted to make her feel small and unimportant.


    If it was Claire or another Chronos member who entered that room, such a gesture would surely felt hurt.


    This was the kind of effect that they want to make the Chronos squad feel. Perhaps, a punishment for their refusal to follow the interview arrangement they had prepared.


    However, Sofia just stood there calmly, waiting for them to speak. She was not even hurt by their treatment. Instead, she made them realized how lacking their characters were!


    At that moment, every person around that table shared one thought in their mind.


    The young lady is not simple to deal!


    "Ehem! Please get a chair for Miss Sofia," the man on the center seat instructed AN and the staff quickly followed.


    Just as they are about to find a way to speak, Sofia moved her feet slightly and combed her hair.


    "I don''t know if you are aware of this, but judging by how you act today, you may not be fully conscious." Sofia paused and moved another step forward.


    "Fully conscious of what?" a woman on the right side of the table interrupted.


    "I''ll give you tips which I learned in the past... Preparing an extra chair for the person that you are expected to have a discussion with, this might be a simple gesture but it holds so much accountability. It shows your character," Sofia lightly shook her head and sighed. Her face showed great disappointment.


    "You organize this tournament and so far it is a successful event. I even praised the preparation you made earlier this morning. However, right now, all praises are buried! Why? Because in my eyes, you are nothing but bullies." Sofia finished.


    At the same time, AN returned pushing a chair inside the room.


    "Thank you, sister AN!" Sofia muttered and placed the chair on the other side of the table. Then she sat elegantly opposite the man sitting in the other center.


    These organizers had not yet been able to fully recover from such a quick lecture when they were shocked again by the choice of seat the young lady sat.


    All of them looked at one another with an awkward expression while the man sitting in the other end took a bottle of water and drunk all its content.

 Chapter 77 - Heated Discussion (2)

    "You can do much better than this," Sofia muttered when no one still made a sound.


    ''From which family this young lady belongs? This imposing aura that even the chairman became speechless is too much!'' the woman on the right side adjusted her sitting position and observed the situation. She could see her fellow organizers were avoiding eye contact and remained their heads down.


    The man sitting at the center was the chairman of the organizers. When he received the complaint that one squad did not comply with the interview, he was extremely angry. He even agreed to disqualify the squad without even knowing which group was it.


    Then, when the Chronos squad was mentioned, he became reluctant. He knew that it was this squad who gave most of the highlights in the match.


    Therefore, the chairman decided to have a talk with the Chronos squad first.


    His goal was to convince the group or perhaps scare them a little bit so that they would follow their arrangement.


    He was confident that he can intimidate any participants given their high position as the organizers of the event. But, at this point, the other organizer realized that things were already out of their control.


    Their target was rather more intimidating!


    Even their chairman became attentive to the young lady! It was as if their position was shifted!


    ''The chairman planned to roast this Chronos squad and scold this young lady about the interview. But now, the table drastically changed and the young lady grilled them about their lack of characters! This is soo interesting!'' AN who was standing near the door pondered deeply. She slowly moved towards Sofia and placed a bottle of water. Sofia smiled and nodded in acknowledgment.


    AN had witnessed how the young lady maintained her poised and sophisticated aura despite in the middle of a confrontation. This kind of bearing deeply gave her inspiration for how to act decently despite the troublesome situation.


    When AN returned to her original position, Sofia tapped her right thumb on the desk as if she was pressing the passive attacks of her phone.


    ''Did I scare them?'' She inwardly thought after realizing that the organizers looked a little bit frightened.


    "Alright! Moving forward, you have called me here about the complaint made by your press company. The man in charge in that press did insisted that we need to join their show. However, my squad is not obliged to be interviewed by them. We have our private press," Sofia continued to speak.


    It would seem that no one really dared to make a noise from the organizers'' side.


    Fortunately, the moment they heard the young lady mentioned "moving forward", all eyes snapped at her as they realized that the bullying issue that she just threw at them was smoothly dropped by her too.


    What she just accused about them not placing a chair for her made these people felt extremely guilty to the point that they almost lost their ability to speak. But after knowing that the lady was not making their action a big deal, they felt slightly relaxed.


    However, the other people sitting on each side of the table still felt awkward.


    There are now two figures sitting on both center ends of the table.


    One was their chairman and the other was a participant. Even if it was just a sitting arrangement, but, the problem lies in who has the most authority around them.


    No matter how they tried to clear their heads, Sofia''s figure looked more authoritative than their chairman!


    "It is better to present your objections. Even if you''ll bring up the possibility of disqualifying my squad, you have no grounds to do it," Sofia made the initiative to get to the point. Since it was obviously the reason why she was summoned by them.


    "We signed an exclusive contract with the FDS Press Company. It was enough grounds to disqualify your squad," the chairman finally returned to his senses and started to debate.


    "Yes! Young miss, are you delusional? Maybe you don''t know what a contract is? Make sure to study properly and ask your teacher about it!" a man on the side ridiculed after finding the courage to speak.


    "Hmmp, you are young. If you can''t understand how serious the contract is, then let me lecture you right now! Contract---" another female spoke but Sofia raised her hand to interrupt her.


    "My squad is not part of that exclusive contract," Sofia simply shrugged her shoulder and took the unopened bottle of water. She gently twisted the cap and took a sip from it. Her refined movement made all of them stared longer to her.


    "It was only between you and the FDS Press Company. You can''t force participants to comply with something if they don''t want to. I made it clear that my squad will take care of our publicity. Why is it hard to comprehend?" Sofia added. Then, she crossed her legs and leaned forward.


    "Miss Su, the problem here is that our contracted press is losing money because of that decision," another lady chirped in.


    "Are you saying that my squad is liable if they lose money? Perhaps, you need to review the terms and conditions that you have placed during the time when the participants were still registering our groups? Please feel free to call me back once you''re done reviewing your terms and conditions," Sofia swiftly stood from her seat and left the room.


    The people blinked their eyes and realized that they were just dismissed easily by a mere participant!


    "Terms and conditions? Why should we review our terms?" another man frowned.


    "Since we are talking about contract, perhaps there is a loophole in our terms and conditions? Let''s review it!" the chairman urged the group.


    Since the terms and conditions of the tournament were available online, all of them, easily browsed on their site.


    It took them almost ten minutes to read the pieces of information plastered on their devices.


    Then, the organizers slumped their backs with a defeated expression on their faces.


    "We did not include the matters about publicity in the terms and conditions!" the chairman exhaled.


    "When the terms and conditions were approved and published, we did not think too much about publicity. The contract between us and the FDS Press Company took effect just today," a woman recollected.


    All of them were struck by the reality that Sofia was indeed right. Every squad does not have the obligation to show up in their arranged interview.


    It was because they have not anticipated their partnership with the press.


    Hence, the existing exclusive contract that the FDS Press Company had does not involve the players but only the organizers.

 Chapter 78 - Quick Considerations

    "I am wrong in this matter. The contents of our terms and conditions were not thoroughly examined by me!" the chairman admitted after discovering the loophole in their demands. More so, he felt greatly embarrassed for how he treated the young lady.


    He suddenly remembered the words when Sofia ridiculed them. ''They lacked characters!''


    As the other people on the table heard the man, they felt a sudden pang of guilt. To be able to own such a mistake, all his subordinates were quick to disagree.


    "No, chairman! That lapses had nothing to do with you. It is us who overlooked this loophole. We should have thought of this matter!" the man shook his head trying to console him.


    The moment one subordinate expressed his opinion, each one of them followed.


    "This event is not what I have imagined. Heck, it''s just a district tournament! I thought that it will be a simple contest. Now, it''s beyond my expectations. So, the exclusive press contract was not opened during the publishing of terms and conditions because all of us that this is just a small contest. It''s why we are only high lighting the game cheats and prizes." the lady analyzed carefully how they did not put such clause on the terms and conditions.


    "I admit that I never anticipated reaching this kind of success in this event so far. I just didn''t think that time that we need to bind the participants for their publicity." another female supported the lady.


    "Anyway, just like the young lady said... we will move forward. This is a good lesson for all of us. In the next event that we organize, we will not commit the same mistake." the man sitting beside the lady also commented.


    Upon hearing his subordinates, the chairman sitting at the center felt warm inside. He was new to this team. In fact, they are not so familiar because they only work together for this tournament.


    He even sometimes felt cautious to express something so as to avoid misunderstanding with his subordinates.


    But now that his members were willing to share the burden of their fault, he felt proud. At the very least, he was certain that working together with the team was an experience he would want to continue.


    He gently placed his phone on the table and produced a relaxed smile.


    "Since everybody reflected our fault, we must do something to correct our action. Please call the FDS Press Company and explain to them this matter. The players can choose their own press. There is no need to force the squad for any interview," the chairman ordered.


    "What about that young lady who just left? Damn! I was sweating because of nervousness! She was younger than me but her aura was too domineering!"


    "Isn''t that the user of CEO UNRIVALED? She is actually fierce and decisive both in the game and in real life! Some gamers are only strong virtually but shy in real life. But that lady, what an outstanding character!"


    "True! That youngster is not simple! I noticed that her way of speaking possessed validation. Her tone gives off certain accuracy."


    "She even saw this flaw in our terms and conditions?! Who reads terms and conditions these days? Even adults would just click the agree without examining the content of the terms!"


    The chairman nodded while listening to the discussions of his subordinates praising Sofia non-stop.


    "I''ll apologize to the young lady. It is also good that they did not end up being disqualified. For now, let''s oversee the championship," the chairman announced with a solemn expression on his face.


    "It felt great that we did not disqualify their squad right away."


    "I agree! If we removed them, it would surely cause an uproar to the audience!"


    "Hmmn, Who knows if they were disqualified, that youngster would probably sue us instead!? She sounded like a lawyer earlier!"


    "I also noticed her tone. It''s so firm and hard to argue!"


    "In this event, their performance undeniably had attracted most of the viewers that made these audiences continue to follow our event. Thankfully, we made a right choice to talk with her first!" the chairman finished his words.


    Meanwhile, Sofia was just about to return to their booth when a person caught her attention.


    It was a lady standing on the side of the hallway. The lady was wearing a simple dress but her overall figure exudes nobility.


    When they made eye contact, the lady moved her feet and approached her.


    "Excuse me? Do you know the direction of the player''s booths?" the lady said.


    "Yes, I''m playing the tournament. Every squad has an assigned booth. Which booth do you want to go to?" Sofia told the lady.


    "Oh, I''m here to look for Mr. Ching," the lady replied in a low tone. Something that was very similar to how Sofia spoke.


    "That''s Stephen, right?" Sofia casually inquired.


    "Yes, that is his first name," the lady replied calmly.


    "We are on the same squad. You can come with me to meet him," Sofia offered and started to continue walking.


    "Ohh, thank you! I''m Grace!" the lady introduced.


    "Sofia,"  she extended her hand and the two shared a handshake.


    When Stephen noticed Grace walking beside Sofia, his expression turned sullen.


    Before he could conceal his expression, the two ladies already saw it.


    "Actually, I have to do something else. Nice to meet you, Sofia!" Grace halted her steps.


    "Nice to meet you too, Grace!" Sofia muttered but did not pry further.


    As Grace walked back, she did not look at the people. Her line of sight was maintained on the floor but her head was unbowed. Sofia could not help but detect a slight aloofness within her.


    ''Nobles,'' she mentally took a note before resuming her steps.


    Clark, Joey, Claire were chitchatting with Jing Jing and did not notice Sofia at first.


    They only turned to look in her direction when she sat on the sofa.


    "Sof, how''s the talk?" Claire was the first to ask her. The lady held an anxious look and she kept twisting the ends of her hair.


    "They are reviewing their terms and conditions," Sofia easily replied.


    "Sof, you won''t believe it! The Lee Gaming squad had declared that they will crush us in our next match!" Joey chirped after noticing the online debate about them.


    "They can crush us if we are not careful. Brent, their founder, is a good gamer," Sofia expressed.


    "Yes, plus they are the premium players. The social media is discussing our next match as the premium players vs the monster newbies!" Clark slightly laughed and also check his phone.


    "Those gamers are rich. I don''t understand why they want to join this kind of event. The tournament prize is nothing to them!" Claire complained.


    "It''s not about the prize. It''s about the joy and prestige," Joey explained.


    "Ahh, that also makes sense. But this is just a district tournament! What kind of prestige they would get out of this small event?" Claire retorted.


    "This event is not small Claire! It attracted the interest of tourists and even pro players in different districts! Don''t underestimate this event. This might be the most trending event in the history of online tournaments!" Joey defended.


    "That makes sense," Claire nodded and did not speak anymore.


    "Brent has studied gaming tactics. He can make something out of an impossible situation. Let''s plan our line up first against their squad," Sofia stated.


    "We should just mirror their picks!" Joey suggested.


    "Mirroring their pick is okay. We can have the same lineup as them. But they have skins, we will be at the disadvantage," Sofia shook her head and presented the possible problem they will face.


    "Stephen, do you have a great grasp of how to use the marksman with the ultimate that has the longest range?" Sofia asked.


    "I''m not confident in that character. It requires so much prediction to fully utilize its ultimate. Plus the cool down is one minute and thirty seconds. It''s so long," Stephen looked apologetic.


    "If its cool down is shorter, that character would be a bug!" Sofia chuckled.


    "That''s right!" Stephen agreed. "I''ll stick with my archer!"


    "Okay, let''s play safe and exhaust their patience. What will you use, Joey?" Sofia turned her head and face Joey.


    "If we plan to pester them a little bit, the best role to get is support," Joey replied.


    "Perfect! Then our lineup is tank, mage, assassin, marksman, and support. Let''s avoid clash and enjoy playing," Sofia finalized.


    "I''ll play the same, but this time, I won''t boost my speed. I will max my damage," Claire told them.


    "Stephen, you need to max your life steal. Be sure to pick all the items that can gain life steal," Sofia reminded.


    "How about me? Should I focus on magic damage?" Clark questioned.


    "No... not magic damage. Clark, you need to focus on making the cool down of your skills lessen. It is important that the skills of your mage is ready at all times. Our goal is to exhaust their patience. The more they become irritated, they will surely make mistakes!" Sofia analyzed.


    "Okay, I know what to do," Clark affirmed.

 Chapter 79 - Lady Grace

    ~ Lee Gaming Squad Booth


    Anyone who would take a look at all the gadgets sprawled on the mini table could easily tell how rich the people occupying this booth. Branded and latest versions of laptops and mobile phones were placed casually while their owners were also holding other expensive phones.


    There were three females chatting about the latest brand of shoes. They were comparing the design of the product without minding the pricey tags on every item.


    "I think I''m going to get the pink shoes!"


    "Yes, it suits your style! I''ll ask my mom to have it delivered to your address!"


    From head to toe, these females were adorned with gold and branded clothes.


    It was not because they had a sponsorship with the brands but because their parents really owned or had a share of the companies producing such brands.


    On the other edges of the sofa, two men were busy looking at their phones. They did not seem to be distracted despite the giggling sound of the three females sitting at the center of them.


    One of the males was Brent, the founder of Lee Gaming Squad. He was watching on his phone a live stream of a quest from a MMORPG game.


    While the other youth on the opposite edge was also not an ordinary person. He was the son of an airline company owner.


    These five participants from the Lee Gaming Squad felt complacent and did not really think much of their championship match. They were more busy with other kinds of stuff that was totally unrelated to the tournament.


    "Young master Brent, the Chronos squad is too shameless! Have you seen their video?" the youth with a slender body and a messy hairstyle complained without removing his gaze on his phone. Although he called Brent a young master, the manner he spoke it does not sound like an honorific.


    "Shameless? Why?" Brent spoke with a distant and emotionless tone. At the same time, the live stream on his screen indeed with an explosion.


    The three females also glanced at the youth who opened up the topic. They were too curious of what makes the youth called their opponent shameless!


    "The tank, CEO UNRIVALED is claiming to be your friend? Hmmph! How can she, a commoner, have a connection with our likes! She must be dreaming!" the youth answered without hiding the contempt in his face.


    "Ohh? William, don''t be so quick to judge that young lady! My brother really knows her," one of the females reprimanded the youth.


    "Are you serious?" William finally looked up and gave them a surprised look. Disbelief was also evident in his eyes.


    "What did she say?" Brent interrupted before his sister could respond to the youth. He then placed his phone on top of the laptop and glanced at the man.


    "Well, this is the interview! Have a look at how ridiculous her claims are!" Williman quickly showed his mobile screen as it played Sofia''s video clip with Jing Jing.


    The group watched together with different expressions on their faces.


    "Ohh," Brent only muttered after the short video ended. He then glanced at the booth of the Chronos squad and saw the group was having a thorough discussion.


    Brent suddenly excused himself and stepped out of their booth.


    As he left, the two other females were quick to voice out their opinions about the interview.


    "That user of CEO UNRIVALED is indeed bold! Hehe Even if we are on the same squad, I don''t even dare to call young master Brent a friend!"


    "That''s right! She actually claimed that she knows our young master? Wow! Young master Brent  must felt insulted!"


    Hearing this typical comment, Brent''s sister rolled her eyes and flapped her hair. She just confirmed to them that her brother knows Sofia but it would seem as if her words were ignored by the two females!


    She remembered Sofia once vividly as she tried to recruit her before. She even thought that the lady was her brother''s girlfriend!


    "That is like a public post! This CEO UNRIVALED is just a commoner who wants to use the fame of young master Brent as her stepping stone!"


    "Well, I don''t even think if young master Brent---"


    The two females continued to speak but one of them was not able to finish what she wanted to say.


    Their line of vision followed at the figure of Brent, walking and then entering the booth of the Chronos squad!


    "Wow! Young master Brent is going to confront them personally! We should see how this lady would react!"


    "Right, come on! Let''s see!"


    Without another word, these females left the booth leaving Brent''s sister and William alone.


    The man who had a momentary speechless raised an eyebrow while watching at the retreating figures of his teammate.


    "I just told them that Sofia and my brother know each other. What are they expecting to see there? They actually did not believe what I say or they became deaf?" Brent''s sister spoke loudly.


    "Yeah... Well, I believe you. Young master Brent has a distant character. But when he watched the video, he looked amused," William nodded.


    "I have tried to recruit CEO UNRIVALED on our squad once. But she was already forming the Chronos squad so I did not manage to get her. When I mentioned my brother''s status, she just brushed it off and told me that they knew each other. My brother also confirmed it to me," she recollected.


    "How did they know each other? The gap of their status is really big!" William wondered. He then scanned the comments sections of the video and started reading the opinions of its viewers.


    "I remember asking Brent about it. He told me that CEO UNRIVALED is like a ''senpai'' to him. They meet in a MMORPG game and she was basically teaching him how to conquer quests on the game," she plainly answered.


    "I believe you but that really sounded unbelievable. Young master Brent is already good in playing games, even before!" William muttered.


    "You can see it for yourself! Go and have a look!" the lady said and started browsing at her laptop again.


    "I will! There is still time to rest anyway," William stood from his seat and quickly followed the two females.


    ~


    Meanwhile, in the exit area of the gym, the noble figure of Grace started to attract people.


    "Miss Grace, have you seen the man your father talked about? Did you have a talk?" a personal assistant quickly walked towards the noble lady as she exited the gymnasium.


    The assistant was wearing a black suit and a tiny earpiece was connected in her earrings. She was almost the same age as the noble lady but unlike the gentle aura of the lady, this assistant had a glint aura of wildness in her eyes.


    "Mr. Ching is rather cold. But I notice that Mr. Lee is also joining this tournament! It''s quite interesting but the place is too crowded," Grace replied as the wind slightly falters the hem of her dress.


    "Ohh, that Mr. Lee... Yes, did create a gaming group. Anyway, how is it?" the assistant asked.


    "I didn''t approach them. I changed my mind," Grace rubbed her hands and looked around the entire area.


    "There are so many people here! We must come back to your penthouse now. It''s dangerous to stay here." the assistant guided the noble lady towards the limousine who was already waiting at her on the side of the street.


    Three people who went out to grab some snacks quickly noticed the noble lady.  They immediately took out their phone and photographed the beauty.


    With her presence, the ground where she stood seemed like on a different realm.


    "My gosh! Grace is actually watching here!"


    "I took a picture of her perfect beauty! I must tell my parent that she is here!"


    "We are so lucky to see a goddess!"


    Grace nodded her head while smiling at the assistant but remained silent. Right after she stepped out of the exit door, she had been very cautious of her surroundings. She doesn''t like to talk with strangers but for some unknown reason, she approached Sofia.


    "There are teens who are taking you a photo. We must hurry to get out of this place, Miss Grace!" the assistant gently pushed her back to enter the limousine.


    The noble lady looked flawless in every aspect. The way she spoke and move to the way she dressed and look. She was indeed an embodiment of a goddess!


    Grace was not a famous celebrity but her profile was distinguished by the citizens in the district.


    She was the daughter of their mayor! Her family holds a strong political power and that nobody dares to approach her for there were several bodyguards who always accompany her.


    "I don''t understand why my father is insisting on Mr. Ching. If it is me, I will go to Mr. Lee. He was more successful than Mr. Ching!" Grace spoke after sitting comfortably inside the vehicle. The assistant can only give her a sympathetic look and sat next to her.


    As for the reason why Grace requested to visit the place without bodyguards, even the assistant could not make a wild guess.

 Chapter 80 - Make Her Proud?

    "Hey! How''s everyone here?" Brent casually asked as he stepped inside the booth of the Chronos squad.


    The entire squad abruptly halted their discussion and was startled by his sudden appearance.


    "We are fine," Clark subconsciously said in a faint voice. He had not even thought who the person entered before he made a response. And when he finally recognized Brent, his eyes went wide in surprise.


    "Omg! You are the founder of the Lee Gaming squad!" Claire shrieked and looked alarmed. Fighting the man inside the battlefield does not bother her, however, seeing him in person was totally a different thing!


    "Hello?" Joey looked up and muttered in confusion.


    On the corner of the booth, Jing Jing and her companions quickly stood from their seats and offered a customary bow to Brent. They were also aware that apart from the man''s distinguished reputation, he was their next opponent!


    They instantly assumed that things may not be so simple as he actually took his time to visit the Chronos squad before their match could start!


    Brent glanced at the corner upon noticing the three other people posing their gesture of respect towards his presence, Brent quickly raised his hand and stopped them. "I''m just visiting my senpai! There is no need for you to bow."


    The atmosphere shifted and felt weird and puzzling after he announced the reason for his visit to them.


    ''Senpai?'' the Chronos squad members frowned. They understood that this borrowed term is used for someone whom the person deeply idolized and looked as a mentor.


    They shared a knowing look as the same question popped in their mind. ''How can this man speak so casually as if he was familiar with us? Who is he talking about?''


    But when Sofia leaned back comfortably on her seat and raised her brow towards the man, they immediately connected her current interview and Brent''s appearance to their booth.


    The Chronos squad had just been caught by the thoughts of how they would be beating their opponents on the next match that they had almost forgotten what Sofia mentioned in her interview.


    She did say that she knew the founder of the Lee Gaming squad!


    Before anyone could speak, the two female teammates of Brent also arrived behind him. They were eager to see any confrontation. Then, another member came to their view, sprinting towards him.


    ''These Lee Gaming squad members are really rich! They looked like full of buffs!'' Claire mentally noted after seeing the branded and golden accessories of the three females. She even compared their groups to a fully buffed character inside the game. She was not so keen on companies and jewelry, hence, she was not entirely aware of the special status that the two females had.


    As for the two females, they easily cast a disgusted look at the Chronos squad and Sofia. They were confident that Brent would get angry by the statement in the interview.


    However, the next interaction between these two founders made them baffled as to what really was going on with Brent''s visit to the Chronos squad booth.


    "Brent, it''s been a while! Hehe... Congratulations on reaching the finals! Are you ready to be crushed by my squad?" Sofia playfully said while a slight smile curved on her lips.


    "Ohh, I am fully prepared to destroy your base later! Don''t even think of crushing my Lee Gaming squad. It''s your Chronos squad who would be crushed!" Brent followed. He even placed his hands on the side of his waist to make his posture look dignified.


    The remaining members of both their teams quietly observed the two. They did not dare speak any words as the tension started to get spicy... or so they thought.


    "Hehehe, I appreciate the confidence. But victory will be ours. We will be the champions of this event," Sofia stifled a laugh.


    "I can support my confidence! Senpai, your squad will go home crying!" Brent chuckled.


    Both of them may have thrown threats against each other but the air around them was not hostile. They maintained a friendly vibe which confused both of their members.


    ''Is this how founders of squads talk when they finally meet? It sounded so weird!'' a thought came crossed to Jing Jing. If she would have voiced these thoughts, the members of both founders would definitely relate to her.


    "Crushing your squad is easy," Sofia continued. This time her aura was different from the sophisticated look. It was like a comical vibe as if she was just enjoying their interaction and did not really mean the words she said.


    "Ahh, your squad does not have the ability to crushed mine. I suggest not to expect too much or else, you''ll get disappointed!" Brent crossed his arms with a proud look on his face.


    Opposite to him, Sofia also mirrored this kind of expression.


    The two stared for a little while before they burst into waves of laughter.


    "Pfft! What are you doing in our booth, Brent?" Sofia finally asked.


    "Haha, I am just really checking your squad. Maybe, I''ll see if I can take some hint of how you will going to perform later," Brent boldly answered.


    "Young master Brent, you won''t confront them?" one of the females asked Brent. They had expected confrontation but the two does not seem to have a conflict.


    "What is there to confront?" Brent looked on his back and did not expect to see his three teammates standing behind him.


    "But this CEO UNRIVALED said that she is your friend!? Young master, you won''t confront her?" the other female reasoned.


    "We are indeed friends. This was before I created the Lee Gaming squad. She taught me almost all the gaming skills I have now," Brent confirmed and made the three members look disappointed.


    "Awe, that is correct. Don''t feel dejected. I used to carry your founder on a lot of quests. But now, he becomes an excellent player," Sofia looked at the three other members of the Lee Gaming squad.


    "That''s right! The teacher meets the student! It is time to surpass the teacher!" Brent expressed without thinking too much out of what he said.


    "Surpass me? You will need another several year to do that! Hehehe, So, you came here because you want to spy with our tactics?" Sofia questioned.


    "That really sounds bad, but if you have pointers, I can also take it!" Brent laughed and rubbed his arms uncomfortably.


    "Hehe, Now you are embarrassed! Tsk! I''ll give you a hint then," Sofia responded. She laced her fingers together and looked at the man with a serious expression.


    "Okay, senpai! I am all ears!" Brent raised his eyebrows several times.


    "This is a top-secret pointer for all of your members. Cultivate patience and you''ll win on the next coming tournament!" Sofia said.


    Her words made all her teammates giggled. It expressed that they really would take the victory and that Brent could only hope for the next tournament to win.


    "Aiiyahh, you should not underestimate my squad. If it goes well, my strategy is really effective," Brent reflected.


    "You are good with strategy, but without the proper attitude, that would be very difficult," Sofia commented.


    This time, two finally reached into a serious conversation. Each of their members could feel that their founders were being truthful.


    On the side of the Lee Gaming Squad, Brent was very much familiar of how Sofia plays her game. He played with her in the past and he knew all her tactics. Hence, he was able to make his own strategy to counter Sofia''s gameplay.


    As for the Chronos squad, all members became worried. Sofia had indeed revealed their next tactic without any hesitation. All her plans can be summarized as targeting the Lee Gaming squad''s patience.


    "Alright, then I look forward to seeing you in the game! I must return to my assigned booth and speak with my members. I''ll have to report what I have discovered from my spying here!" Brent joked.


    "Yeah, see you later! Do your best and good luck!"  Sofia simply said and waved goodbye to Brent and the three figures behind him.


    "Wow, that CEO UNRIVALED is actually confident to defeat us? She will really be disappointed later!" the youth behind Brent expressed but their founder had already returned to his aloof bearing.


    "I hope we can defeat them and make her proud, hehehe..." Brent walked more faster and left the three figures confused.


    "What did the young master say?" all of them stopped their tracks and started to analyze the words that Brent just said.


    "If I heard it correctly, he actually says that he wanted to make that CEO UNRIVALED proud? This, we must confirm it to him!" the youth responded and started to sprint towards their booth.


    "Young master! Please tell me if I am wrong, did you participated this tournament just to make someone proud?" the youth quickly questioned as he sat back on his seat.


    "Make someone proud? Huh?" Brent''s sister furrowed her brows and looked at the two men.


    "Well, I just heard it like that. But now, I am starting to doubt if I heard it correctly or not!" the youth had a troubled look on his eyes as he tried to explain the situation to Brent''s sister.

 Chapter 81 - Another Refusal

    "I don''t blame you if you are surprised to know this, William. I''ve known Sofia even before I took over my father''s company," Brent nodded to the youth.


    "I did think that you would confront her about the interview. I didn''t expect that you know those commoners," William grinned.


    "Our social status in real life is not really applicable inside the game. CEO UNRIVALED had taught me a lot of gaming tactics and strategies in the past. She was actually the reason why I was really hooked up with the gaming world," Brent started.


    "Ohh, so the two of you are like a duo or something? You have great gaming skills, young master Brent. I always admire how you can adjust in the game easily during crucial battles," William spoke solemnly. He opened his phone and returned to watch the video clip of Sofia''s interview.


    Brent glanced at the stage and looked at the large screen. There was still ample time before their final match would start. He suddenly remembered Sofia''s familiar laugh and felt a little pressure.


    He took a deep breath and started to remember the times when he was still playing along with Sofia. "In the past, I''m just that typical kid that always gets frustrated after getting beaten up when doing my quest. Even if I recharge in the game and buy nice pieces of equipment for my character, I still end up losing. It was kind of insulting that I have spent money but still those who are regular gamers beat me."


    William and Brent''s sister remained silent as they looked at him with serious expressions on their faces. The man rarely opened up despite them being in one squad.


    They had deemed him as an eccentric person and always seemed distant. However, at that point, it was like he put the wall down and let the two show a glimpse of his past.


    "It was Sofia who showed me how to make a good build of my character and how to fight and give maximum damage to my enemies. If I win against her today, she will surely be proud of me!" Brent continued while recollecting the struggles he had encountered of his earlier years in the gaming world. He had even been bullied online for his capacity to spend money but cannot maximize his character''s ability.


    "So this is actually your motivation for participating in the game? You want to win to make your opponent proud? That''s so weird to hear coming from you!" Brent''s sister snickered.


    "What else would motivate me? We all have our drive to do what we are doing. If she is not here, I might just assign another person to participate and play with you," Brent spoke calmly.


    "Well, I will support you, young master Brent! We will surely win this match! Err, even if your goal is to make our enemy proud. Hehehe," William commented with a forced smile on his face.


    "We can win! It is easy to read their next actions based on their items. So, we can counter them as long as we pay attention to their build," Brent commanded.


    "I can''t wait for our match to start! Why is this break taking so long?" William complained.


    "They are probably fixing something. I have seen two technicians who went inside the center and checked the devices. They had been done minutes ago!" Brent''s brother sighed.


    While these players expressed their eagerness to play the final round, the team leader that handled the press publicity approached them. AN was also trailing behind.


    "Hello, young masters! The tournament organizers prepared an interview for participants today. This is for your squad to expand exposure and get the right publicity you need," the team leader stated with an expectant gaze in her eyes. She maintained a polite and friendly tone towards the group.


    Unbeknownst to this team leader, Brent and his teammates had already seen the issue about Sofia''s pimples circulating in the internet. They also recognized the team leader as the one who was in the video and bashed Sofia''s face.


    The group also disapproved and felt that it was very unprofessional for the tournament interviewer to target the Chronos squad in such a degrading way.


    The both looked at one another as if their mind was thinking of the same thought.


    "Oh, I am not comfortable with my makeup today, so I won''t join the interview," Brent''s sister responded while pretending to look at her reflection on her phone.


    "Yeah, me too! I have a small pimple on my nose. I''m embarrassed to face the camera. I should look perfect to the public," Brent joined with a cold tone that made the team leader slightly frightened.


    "I did not sleep for 12 hours because of the tournament. So my eyebags looked ugly, I won''t join the interview," William added without giving the staff a glance.


    Hearing the three people giving their alibi, the team leader felt grieved. She could easily tell that the group was just being dramatic but she did not dare speak out nor [provoke them.


    Unlike the Chronos squad, the people she was facing were not ordinary. So, she could only put up with their attitude.


    "Okay, I understand. Good luck, young masters!" the team leader spoke in a dejected tone.


    "Bye," the Lee Gaming squad spoke together hinting that the team leader was already dismissed.


    ~


    In the interview room, Drake almost fainted out of anger after knowing that another squad had refused to be interviewed by them!


    The man was still confident and felt wronged as he was not yet notified by the chairman of the organizers about the loophole of his exclusive contract.


    "Young master Drake, this time, the squad that had refused our interview is the Lee Gaming squad. So, we cannot deal with them. Otherwise, they might use their connection to attack us and your press," the team leader explained.


    "Ohh, that young master from the Lee family. Hmmm... What are the organizers of this tournament had been doing?! Did they deal with that ignorant youngster from the Chronos squad already? Why is it that another squad refused our interview? Are they so incompetent!?" Drake demanded and decided to vent his anger to the tournament organizers.

 Chapter 82 - Resolving The Misuderstanding

    "Young master Drake, mind your words, please! This is not the place where you can act what you wish," a stern voice sounded in the doorway of the interview room that startled the staff inside.


    Then, the figure of the chairman followed to enter. He was holding a portfolio in his hand with a label ''Exclusive Contract'' on the front side.


    The man surely heard when Drake called them incompetent and felt his anger started to bubble on his chest.


    "This is the interview room," another staff mildly spoke and moved to the side. Then, Sofia entered the room along with the chairman.


    The organizers had asked her for help to explain the issue with the existing press contract of the tournament. Although she was not obliged to help the organizers, the lady offered to resolve the issue so things could move on without any misunderstanding from each side.


    "Oh, don''t tell me what to say! This time, another squad had refused to be interviewed, it seemed that you are really incompetent! Have you deal with those bunch of ignorant gamers?" Drake continued to lash out his frustration and refused to take the chairman''s advice. The man did not even look at the newcomer treating them as if they were insignificant.


    "Please show some respect to our chairman," the team leader looked down and reminded the man about his brazen attitude. As she looked up and saw the other figure on the side of the chairman, she looked satisfied.


    "Hmmph! You have signed an exclusive contract with my company but now, we cannot get in touch with the two contenders for the championship match? This is ridiculous!" Drake protested.


    Then he looked at the door and saw Sofia''s figure with the chairman. "Ohh, so you have managed to get this ignorant brat to come! Hmmph! Good, you may sit there and proceed to be interviewed." He ordered right away while pointing coldly at the empty chair where a cameraman was waiting.


    The chairman shook his head in disapproval. He slowly glanced at Sofia as if hinting for her to speak.


    "As the future successor of FDS Press Company, you should respect other people. This industry is just small. A good connection is everything. Anyway, I came here not to be interviewed by your staff but to explain why you cannot force players to show on your live broadcast," Sofia remained on her spot but the way she stood has an invisible force that made her looked like she was towering the people inside. Her hands were hung on each side while her expression looked stiff and unfriendly.


    "Bah! Explain? What do you mean? Did these organizers become dumb that they sent you here to talk with me? You are just an ignorant teen who needs to study well. What gives you the qualification to reason out with me?" Drake continued.


    "Mr. Drake, you have said that I am ignorant. But right now, it is you who acts like an inexperienced with dealing the people properly in the industry. Or, could it be that this is how you deal with your clients? If so, I won''t be surprised if you''ll file bankruptcy!" Sofia directly provoked the man. Since he refused to acknowledge the chairman, she had no choice but cut off the man''s ignorance in a rude way.


    "Kid, you are bold! Listen, this exclusive contract is enough to disqualify your squad! Don''t test my patience!" Drake almost threw the contract papers on Sofia''s chest. If not for the team leader who raised a hand and stopped the man, the lady would definitely hit.


    "I don''t know about your exclusive contract since this is between you and the organizers of this tournament. I am aware of its confidentiality. But, what I am going to tell you is about the terms and conditions between the tournament and the players," Sofia paused and started to read the clause of the online terms and conditions.


    "Who cares about that online terms and conditions? It is there because it is required when creating an event. I still have the exclusive contract!" Drake frowned insisting on the papers in his hand.


    "Tell me, which clause of your contract stipulates that the players are obliged to be interviewed by your press? I have discussed my concern with the organizers of the tournament. Now, it''s your turn to present your signed documents! Is there a clause that exists about our publicity?" Sofia probed and the man became silent.


    The flipping sound of paper followed to echo in the room as his fingers slowly scanned the documents. Then after a while, he put the paper down and looked at Sofia with a condescending look.


    "I don''t care about what you want to see!"


    "Oh boy! You are so confident in calling me ignorant. But this is how you poorly defend your claims?! Even a law student would laugh at you, Mr. Drake. Don''t threaten us for disqualification. This matter was already resolved. We, the participants of this tournament agreed to the terms and conditions only. Not in that contract that you are holding," Sofia curled her lips openly mocking the man.


    In fact, Sofia remembered that in her previous life, the online terms and conditions would soon be revised by almost all the admins of any online site. The admins would specify that their company will hold the right to change the terms and conditions without prior notice. This kind of content even caused an uproar and disagreement but in the end, it was still practiced.


    When the time comes that such a revision would be done, even Sofia would have no choice but to follow this arrangement.


    Fortunately, this time, the organizers did not also think thoroughly about the terms that they had published.


    "The lady was right. Young master Drake, this matter cannot be pressed further. Apologies for the confusion that is created by the exclusive contract that we have signed. We cannot blame or force the players if they don''t want to show up in the interview," the chairman finally made a confirmation of their misunderstanding.


    "So that''s it? If this is the case, then, it''s better if we terminate this contract!" Drake demanded.


    "If you are willing to pay for the termination fee, we won''t force you to continue broadcasting our event," the chairman answered,


    "Termination fee? We haven''t even earned properly for this partnership and you asked me to pay? You are out of your mind!" Drake clenched his face as he felt that he was pushed at the corner of a wall.


    "This is part of the contract that you have signed," the chairmen spoke with an emotionless tone.


    "It''s almost time for the final match. I must return to my squad. I hope you can resolve this misunderstanding with him," Sofia''s spoke softly towards the chairman before she left the interview room.

 Chapter 83 - Championship (1)

    "Young master Brent, it''s about time for our last game. Should we buy an upgrade for our map later? There is an available design with a futuristic mecha theme. It''s a newly released theme. It''s so cool!" William asked while browsing the forum of the game. There was excitement in his eyes and his face looked dazzling. Perhaps, such a feature had really satisfied him greatly for him to beam with energy.


    "Let me see?" Brent peered on his mobile phone screen to see the new map design.


    Such design was indeed exquisite!


    The bases and towers of both sides had the distinctive colors of bright red and black.


    The grass and trees looked more greener than on the regular map. And the appearance of the jungle monsters was replaced with robotic form. Their buffs had also a futuristic animation once the players killed the NPC.


    Walls and rocks were also substituted with huge shining metals.


    Even the design of the grounds in each lane looked like a tidy concrete street on high ways!


    A giant mutant was also standing mightily within the location of the river. This giant NPC would still randomly spawn on the top or bottom edge of the boundary. Any squad who would get the kill of this mutant would make this giant NPC an ally against their opponent.


    More so, the river that served as the boundaries of territories had a beach design giving off a summer vibe at the center of an industrialized location.


    Overall, the animations and appearance of the surrounding had completely changed but the dynamics of the game remained.


    "You are right! This is really cool! Let''s have this map! I''ll buy it," Brent stated and logged in to his account.


    "I will also have this map for my account," William muttered and immediately proceed with the purchase transaction of the map.


    To say, apart from their upgraded skins for their characters, the Lee Gaming squad already set up the upgraded map for their next match.


    "Done! I''ve bought the new map theme," Brent grinned without minding about the money that he paid.


    "Nice! Nice! Me too! I''m so excited to play now!" William stated and both of them shared a hi-five.


    When the large that was clock hung on the wall of the gym struck at 5:30 PM, the host immediately emerged on the stage. He had changed his attire into a white suit and his entire appearance looked fresh and crisp.


    When the audience saw the host, they started yelling and screaming.


    "The host is ready to have a date!" one of the audience pointed out from his seat and everyone giggled at the idea.


    "Host, I''m available! You can date me!" another girl playfully yelled.


    "Sister, you are so bitter. You only prove that you are single on this valentines day!" a male audience sitting next to the girl rolled his eyes.


    "TSK! Shout if you want. Don''t mind me," the girl responded while pouting her lips.


    With the host standing on the stage, it was their cue. The long-awaited championship was about to start!


    "Hehehe, we are all excited for this finale! Who would get this victory?" The host loudly asked the audience.


    As soon as the voice erupted from the bleachers, no one could understand the cheers. Some were on the side of the Chronos squad that was dubbed as the monster newbies. Others were also on the side of the Lee Gaming squad that had the reputation of being the premium players!


    "Ladies and gentlemen, the championship match is about to start. May I request the participant to enter their respective lounges," the host eagerly called both squads.


    The Lee Gaming squad was the first to stepped out from their both and went to the center of the gym. They waved their hands at the audience side and it caused another huge uproar. Girls were screaming at the top of their lungs in hopes that their idols would acknowledge them.


    "Ahh, the rich people in our society. They are so near but they are still unreachable!" an audience commented with a dreamy look on her face. She was staring at William who was looking on the other side of the bleachers.


    Meanwhile, Sofia had just returned to their booth from her quick trip to the interview room. She hastily took a sip of water before her squad sprinted towards the center.


    "Ohh, darn! I should have smoked a stick of cigar earlier," Stephen muttered while his eyes wandered to the audience side. He exhaled loudly with a dramatic up and down movement of his shoulders feeling overwhelmed at the idea that they are fighting the championship!


    "Wow, my heart rate is so fast!" Charles also placed his palm on his chest feeling the beating of his heart.


    A deafening noise welcomed the group but the sound of their heart was more louder.


    This is their final moment!


    "Ladies and gentlemen, the Lee Gaming Squad vs the Chronos squad!" the host yelled in joy after each player settled down on their seat.


    On the large screen, the squad name and players quickly appeared while a countdown timer started to play. Every player started to log in to their accounts and the commentators quickly took over.


    In less than a minute, the players successfully entered their game lobby.


    The timer displayed on the large screen exploded and they began to pick their role and character for the match.


    "Here we are at the championship match. The squads are picking their roles easily! This only shows how much they have planned this match!" one of the commentators started to speak.


    "That''s right! On the side of the Chronos squad, their lineup is settled. We have... an archer for the marksman role, hmmm, basically it''s the same lineup for the Chronos squad! There is a tank, support, mage, and assassin! And the side of the Lee Gaming squad, they are also done picking! Haha, this is a tough lineup!" the other commentator replied.


    "What kind of strategy are we going to witness for this match!? I am curious how they would fight for the victory! This is the last match that they will have for the championship! That''s so exciting!" the first commentator added and watched as the timer nearly transported all players to the battlefield.

 Chapter 84 - Championship (2)

    "Hehe," Sofia smiled while staring at her tank standing on the lobby of the game. She glanced at her teammates and the group shared the same look and excitement. She could also tell that they were slightly nervous. "Just play."


    The screen displayed a five seconds countdown timer and continued to move before the players would be transported to the battlefield. All noises on the entire place have not yet tone down.


    All audience held their breath and take note of the player''s characters. Some took pictures and joined the social media craze of hashtag championship and many other trending posts. There were also few audiences who were merrily doing a live broadcast on their personal accounts.


    One thing was for sure, their eyes were plastered towards the big screen on the front stage and then switched to their mobile phones. This alternate movement of their heads were almost synchronized if someone would see them in a bird''s eye view.


    Meanwhile, the two commentators absentmindedly tapped their hands on the desk while counting the numbers on the timer in their head.


    3...


    2...


    1...


    When the countdown reached zero, all of the people watching in the game - may it be online or inside the gym, felt deep wildness tugged inside their souls. A different energy was unleashed within them without their knowing.


    It was the kind of moment that they shared the same burning feeling of excitement in their chest that they had never felt before.


    The entire theme of the battlefield made all their morale turned up.


    The large screen on stage showed the mecha theme map.


    "Ohh my gosh! This is a new map! Excellent!!!"


    "Wow! What a beautiful theme! I have not seen this map before! Is that new?"


    "Yes, that''s new! They released a promotional video of that map before."


    "As expected for the premium players! There is no way they would end this tournament without showing us the best! HAHA, Nice map!"


    The entire gym was filled with buzzing compliments when the new appearance of the upgraded version of the map was displayed. They instantly applauded after noticing the squad who activated the map.


    Who else had the capability other than the Lee Gaming squad?


    Even some pro players on the audience side forgot to close their mouth as they gape in astonishment.


    "BOSS WINS, I am having goosebumps of this map! Even though the game is just about to start, I can now feel the intense joy just by seeing the match! Is this normal?" one of the members of the FAB_Gamers squad muttered while dramatically clenching his chest.


    "It''s normal! Look around," WINS chuckled while there was also a glint of pride in his eyes.


    When the man looked on his left side, there was really an older man who had his mouth opened and his saliva was pouring out from his lips down to his chin.


    "Yikes! The man over there had forgotten to close his mouth! Everybody is really surprised! I see, I see..." the man force a smile and whispered to WINS.


    Even though no one on the side of the Chronos squad bought the upgraded map, the game feature would still take effect on them too.


    The only indication of who owned the upgraded map was the extra star that would be displayed on the side of their usernames.


    In their case, the star appeared on the Lee Gaming squad players.


    "Ha! New map! Nice!" Sofia''s eyes also sparkled when she saw her character stood mightily on the ground near their base.


    She scanned on the entire feature with great appreciation. The color of their base was bright red and all their towers had a similar tone. Meanwhile, on the side of their opponent, the color was vibrant black hinting at some sort of demonic vibe on their territory.


    "HAHA, I like this Lee Gaming squad already! They really made this kind of preparation!" Claire took a sharp breath while her character ran towards the jungle.


    "This is the latest available map theme of the game. If I''m not mistaken, it''s called mecha..." the younger commentator started to project while immediately searching for the information on the new map.


    None of the commentators nor the organizers of the tournament were prepared for this kind of execution.


    "Awesome! Awesome!" the operator on the game repeated while looking at the robotic NPCs on the game.


    It was clear that the Lee Gaming Squad had already pulled the heart of everyone watching the match to like them just by displaying the new map.


    After the crowd recovered from the surprise they immediately followed the movements of the players.


    On the side of the Chronos squad, Sofia''s tank and Stephen''s marksman were sprint side by side towards the bottom lane.


    Claire was already hiding on the green grass and was starting to deal with the jungle monsters. Clark was still in the position of the middle lane while Joey was on the top lane.


    There was no signal yet from any of their members. All of them were focused on their lanes as they started to clear the first wave of creeps.


    "The Chronos squad is playing a pretty relax gameplay right now. I have a hunch... but just a hunch, based on their arrangement that they may give us a long game for this final round!" the older commentator started to analyze.


    "That''s right. They are not even stealing the jungle monsters of their opponents! That''s not what we have seen on their earlier matches," the other commentator responded.


    "Towers are equal, gold are equal but the EXP level of the Lee Gaming squad is higher of just a single-digit compare to the Chronos squad!"


    "Uh-uh, this is because of their skin upgrades. Part of the benefits when you use a skin. While the Chronos squad is using their regular characters, the Brent Gaming squad members are fully upgraded!"


    The commentators continued to discuss the stats of both squads while still researching the pieces of information on the new map.


    It may not sound significant to the audience to discuss the map features but it is very important for the commentator to highlight the point of the map. If they can give a thorough explanation of the map, it would be an extra profit for the game developers.


    Not only the profit for the developers but also it would be an opportunity for the commentators to display their expertise on the game. They were hired to do the job for that particular reason.


    To give expert comments!


    The older commentator turned off all their mic and casually asked his companion for the information of the map.


    "What did it say? Damn! I have studied all the maps of this game last night but I did not saw this robotic theme!"


    The younger commentator finally forwarded his phone containing all the information on the map. "There it is! I have seen this map on the beta mode,"


    "Ohh, I did not log in to my beta account recently. Alright let me see," the older commentator quickly skimmed all the details of the map.


    In just a matter of few breaths, these two have already grasped the details about the upgrades. They instantly resumed providing their comments.


    "Hehe, Both squads are still playing safe. They are trying to build their items and move in the map cautiously!" the older commentator muttered. He then took a sharp breath and continued, "Anyway, this brilliant appearance of the battlefield that you are seeing right now is the newly released mecha theme map. Eye-catching isn''t it? This is the robotic theme that was previously available in the beta server. Now the game released this for the public! Be sure to buy this map for you to have a more engaging and futuristic vibe while playing!"


    While these commentators continued to speak, all the members of the Lee Gaming squad had reached level four. Their character skills were all available to use.


    On the middle lane, Clark''s mage was facing Brent''s sister which was also a mage.


    In the early game, it was very common to see the mages taking over the middle lane while assassins were farming. Sometimes it would also be the tank and marksman doing the jungle, depending on the team''s strategy.


    Since all the Lee Gaming squad had reached level four, their marksman and tank also joined the middle lane.


    Clark was trying to avoid being caught by the three opponents. He led his character to the innermost part of the tower and casually throw skills.


    At first, he was still reluctant to signal his teammate and ask for help, but after noticing that the enemy assassin was also in the middle lane and was just hiding on the grass, he quickly pressed the signal for backup.


    "Ohh, look at that! The middle lane became jammed with so many characters now! One mage from the Chronos squad vs four of his opponent! And the mage already request a backup! Good choice brother! But will he get a backup from the other members of the Chronos squad?" the younger commentator immediately narrated.


    "The situation is tough! Who would get the first blood among the two contenders?" the older commentator quickly followed.


    Despite these simultaneous questions, all the audience had become silent. They were all looking for Clark moving side to side just to dodge the attack of the four opponents.


    Claire was the first to move towards their middle lane, but she was not throwing her skills to attack the enemies. Her character was hiding on the grass just waiting for the perfect timing to assassinate an enemy.


    "This is really a hard situation for the Chronos mage given the fact that the tank of the Chronos squad had not yet reached level 4. They have to avoid the Lee Gaming squad until their skills became available!" the older commentator stated.


    "Using skin upgrade is really beneficial!" the young commentator laughed slightly.

 Chapter 85 - Championship (3)

    "This is the trademark of the Lee Gaming squad. They are all premium in every aspect of the game. This map that they presented to us, their characters, and even their overall appearance. They refused to settle on what is common." the young commentator nodded repeatedly.


    The audience hummed in agreement upon hearing his remarks.


    To say, no one can beat the Lee Gaming squad when it comes to the money spending. If there would be a ranking of all premium players in the game, this squad would surely be the top rank one global!


    "These players were known for their "sky is the limit" attitude in terms of using their wallets. I''m sure the Chronos squad already made considerations about the advantage of their opponents, or else, victory would slip away from their hands," the older commentator said easily while his mind slowly drifted off to some issue back then when the game released the skin upgrade features.


    There was once an online argument about skins and fair battlefield posted on the gaming forum because of the upgrade advantages of the game.


    Several players complained that it was too unfair that premium players have the benefits of gaining more EXP first than the regular players. They claimed that it would disrupt the essence of playing and using real skills.


    Some vloggers even bluntly called out the game developers for being greedy of money. That this kind of feature was forcing the players to buy necessary upgrades.


    However, the premium players only dissed the regular players by saying that producing money was also a skill.


    There was even a full-blown mockery between the line of skin user and real skill at that time. Regular gamers ridiculed all the premium players for lack of skills and being reliant for money. However, the issue was just quickly forgotten and every player accepted such arrangement in the game.


    On the side of the game developers, they did explain the dynamics of using upgrades to address the issue. In their official statement, they discussed that getting a skin upgrade did not guarantee to get a victory as the advantage was only on the stats of EXP gain. When the characters of the game reached the maximum level, their EXP benefits from the upgrade would no longer be an issue. And the regular players could still catch up easily.


    "The Lee Gaming squad surely have an advantage of the early game. Now that they have passed the EXP level of their opponent, they are determined to gain an upper hand on the middle lane!"


    In all perspective, Clark''s mage looked really pitiful in the middle lane.


    Now, he was facing the tank, marksman, mage, and fighter of the Lee Gaming squad.


    All four opponents continuously sent their skills towards him at once whenever it would be available to cast.


    The audience consciously sent a sympathetic look at his situation.


    "The Chronos mage does not even have any armor on his inventory items that could allow him to have a bit of resistance against his enemies'' attacks."


    "I can feel the pressure of being surrounded like that. That continuous skills are hard to avoid but he still managed to do it!"


    Luckily, the range of these four attackers does not reach towards the most inner part of the Chronos tower. So, they have not managed to deal any damage yet. Only the animations attacks from their skills flutter around.


    The Lee Gaming squad players tried their best to get the Chronos mage. They even moved towards the wall and had almost discovered Claire hiding on the grass.


    Claire became alert and prepared to escape but the enemy was not so mindful of her presence. No one may have predicted that she was hiding in the grass area just behind the location where the four players were positioning their characters.


    They just continued sending their skills to Clark''s mage.


    For some reason, these four players failed to calculate the possibility that an assassin was waiting for its victim on the grass.


    As for their target mage, Clark''s fingers slightly trembled when he saw that the enemies were advancing. Cold sweats were also forming on his forehead while he was holding his breath.


    ''Why am I always the target?'' Clark mentally asked in between avoiding the attacks.


    But this question does not imply his below-average skill in the pro scene. The Lee Gaming squad does not see him as a weak player. Instead, it was because his role as a mage was an easy target for an early game.


    Mages got the least endurance against any attacks.


    It meant his role made him the first target of his enemies.


    Facing four opponents, Clark could only pray that he won''t die at the hands of the four attackers in the early game.


    "The Lee Gaming players are moving. They are determined to get this mage in the middle lane! But their attack range is not enough to hit their target. Ooops! They have almost bumped into the assassin over the grass! Wow! The assassin was neglected!" the younger commentator promptly spoke while almost all the audience jolted out of their seat for the near discovery of Claire''s assassin on the grass. It could be seen as a pure luck escape from a possible clash.


    On the large screen, the audience could now see that the assassin of the Chronos squad was leisurely standing on the edge of the grassy area near the wall.


    The bottom lane where Sofia''s tank and Stephen''s marksman became empty. They started to attack the tower but their damage was not enough to destroy it.


    The perspective switched back to Claire''s assassin where there was no movement or anything from her character.


    "When do you think will the Chronos assassin attacks the four enemies? She can easily snatch the mage of the Lee Gaming squad but its hard to fight with the remaining three enemies." one audience spoke deeply to his seatmate.


    "Its kind of interesting that these two Chronos players are not casting any skills against their opponents," the seatmate muttered.


    The audience started to feel worry on the middle lane situation. But on the lounge of the Chronos squad, the assassin user looked calm. She was checking at every angle where she could possibly start her attack.


    Claire was very careful and had to wait for the right timing as they were clearly outnumbered.


    Her sharp eyes were following for the movements of her enemy as if a predator ready to catch her prey!

 Chapter 86 - Championship (4)

    After seconds of waiting on the grass, Claire''s assassin flickered towards the mage of Lee Gaming squad. She initially pressed the second skill to dash forward but she canceled the skill before it was totally released. She was hesitating to use the skill.


    As she halted mid-way, she finally pressed the second skill to dash sideward.


    The background sound effect of her flicker alerted the four enemies that were targeting Clark''s mage. These four opponents immediately saw the shadow of the assassin moving behind and they felt wary.


    While the assassin started to move sideward after revealing her location, Claire''s eyes were everywhere on the map. She glanced at the bottom lane and then on the top lane while her character hastily landed on the ground.


    She calculated everything and made a plan.


    On the side of the Lee Gaming squad, all of them turned their attention to Claire and follow through with her movements.


    ATTACK!!!


    Countless skills were directed towards the assassin producing a beautiful flow of animation on the river.


    They have noticed that the movement of their new target was not slow nor fast. It was just the normal speed of the assassin using normal boots on her inventory.


    The next moment, it became a game of tag!


    Claire sprinted towards the bottom lane part of the river while the four opponents continued to chase after her.


    The Lee Gaming squad kept firing their skills but none of it caught the assassin yet. She was not stunned nor immobilized. But they did not stop and used every method to corner the assassin.


    The Lee Gaming squad was eager to get the first blood and since the Chronos assassin was also alone, even if it was running away from them, they quickly changed their target and pursued her.


    Clark stood beside the tower for a moment feeling grateful but also confused.


    He was aware that Claire would attack their opponent and was just waiting for the right timing.


    But, at the last second of her action, she retreated which was something that Clark did not expect. He purposely did not use his skill to save it when Claire started to attack. But now, they were all moving away from him!


    ''Should I follow them or not?'' Clark thought while looking briefly at Claire''s character being chased by the four opponents.


    Before he could reach his final decision, Claire signaled her teammates to gather.


    The sound of request back up made Clark realized that Claire wanted him to follow.


    The assassin was still moving on the river going downwards. She was also doing her best to dodge all the attacks that were coming her way.


    Clark''s thumb immediately moved on the screen of his phone as if pushing his mage to the bottom lane.


    He immediately noticed that Claire was not retreating at all!


    Instead, she was luring their opponents to go to the bottom lane where their ally tank and marksman were also waiting!


    ''Something is not right! If this assassin wants to escape from us why is her movement not fast?'' Brent immediately thought of the abnormal movement speed of Claire''s assassin.


    Then, he had a sudden hunch that the group may ambush them!


    Brent took a peek at the map and confirmed his suspicion after seeing that Clark had moved towards the bottom lane. It was certain that there will be an ambush at the bottom lane!


    In an instant, he knew that his squad was being lured! The bait was the assassin!


    "How bold! Your EXPs are still far from mine!" Brent smirked and muttered softly. His marksman character had reached level six while the Chronos squad members had just got to level four.


    "Does the Chronos squad think that we are just born yesterday? Clearly, it''s obvious that they are luring us? But their level is too low to ambush our squad!" Brent''s sister also ridiculed them.


    The two-level gap was more than enough to slay their enemies.


    Brent was also confident that they can withstand against their opponent even if they would be ambushed! So, he decided to continue despite knowing that they were just being lured.


    When Claire arrived at the bottom lane, her assassin became invisible which made the opponents halt their steps.


    They cast their skills to the various possible area where Claire could hide. They attacked the near grass in the hope to remove the invisibility that Claire activated.


    "What''s the point of getting invisible? Hehe, I catch you, your dead!" William smirked and started to survey all the grass areas.


    The group anticipated that they will be ambushed at any moment.


    But in reality, Claire was no longer on the bottom lane. Her character had teleported to the top lane!


    "HAHAHA the assassin had slipped far away! What is really the plan of the Chronos squad? I thought they would fight their opponents in the bottom lane!" the younger commentator stated in confusion. He was also having difficulty understanding the reason behind Claire''s movement.


    Clark was also dumbfounded when the map indicated that Claire was not on his lane. It would seem that his initial perception of Claire''s movement was not correct.


    Did Claire change her mind again? Surely she asked them to gather but why did she teleport to the top lane and joined Joey?


    Sofia''s tank and Stephen''s marksman also teleported to the middle lane which made them totally switched places!


    "What is happening?" Clark furrowed his eyebrows.


    Much to the Lee Gaming squad, there was no ambush that happened to them. When they tried to attack the bottom lane tower of the Chronos squad, there was only one character that was standing there.


    It is their initial target, the Chronos mage!


    "Ohh? Where did they go?" Brent''s sister asked before she looked at the mini-map of the battlefield right above her mobile screen.


    "That assassin is in the top lane! What?" William gritted his teeth and looked furious.


    "And the mage had switched position to their marksman and tank! What a waste of time! We pursued that assassin only to face again with this mage!" one of the females complained as they started to regroup and went to their respective towers too.

 Chapter 87 - Championship (5)

    "What is really the plan of the Chronos squad?"


    Such a question crossed everyone''s mind after the entire players scattered to different locations.


    Even the commentators assumed that they would see both sides as it would clash eventually after Claire''s assassin lured the four players of the Lee Gaming squad.


    They were speculating and speaking to the audience about Claire luring the enemy to the bottom lane for their team to gather and prepare for an ambush.


    But now, every speculation they made was incorrect. They felt slightly shy about the outcome.


    There was actually no ambush arranged by the Chronos squad!


    Sofia''s tank and Stephen''s marksman had fled the bottom lane after their enemies arrived and teleporting to a different lane.


    And the one who had lured the enemy was already positioning to a far distance top lane!


    "Alright, alright, the Chronos squad is hard to predict, folks!!! The game is still pretty relaxed! It is only an early game though... so, it''s clear that the Chronos squad will go after the late game. They cannot fight the Lee Gaming squad now since their EXP level gap had kept raising! What will be the Lee Gaming squad do now?" the younger commentator continued to narrate.


    At that moment, the audience was also baffled.


    The perspective on the large screen showed Joey''s support and Claire''s assassin moving forward.


    The two characters were now trying to push the top lane...


    "Could it be tower stealing? Is this the plan of the Chronos squad? To gather all the opponents in one area while one member would destroy the tower from a farthest lane?" an audience on the backside of the bleacher could not help but scratched his head and wondered about the tactics that the Chronos squad was using.


    Indeed, such kind of actions from Claire''s gameplay could be viewed as her trying to get all the attention of the enemy so that the top lane would be pushed by Joey.


    The only flaw for this analysis was that it was too early for the squad to deploy a tower stealing tactic.


    The damage of their characters would not be enough to push a tower yet.


    There was no way for their group to be able to push, destroy and steal a single tower!


    "Maybe the Chronos squad thinks that they can steal the top lane tower and push on there. Ahh, it''s impossible! Although they have performed well on the elimination round, they are still a newbie!" the person sitting next to the man who tried to imply the tactics of the Chronos squad immediately reacted.


    "Yes, I am not sure now! I can see that the plan of the Lee Gaming squad was to take a first blood! But for the Chronos squad scattering just like that, I can only tell that they are avoiding the clash! Why did they unite in the bottom lane only to separate also?" another audience joined analyzing Claire''s decision.


    The Lee Gaming squad mage and fighter went to Joey and Claire to face them on the top lane. They have first teleported to their base to regain their mana as they had been firing their attacks which made their mana fully used.


    "Damn, we just consumed our mana for nothing! We did not kill the mage and we also did not kill the assassin!" the mage user of the Lee Gaming squad scornfully murmured.


    The faces of the Lee Gaming squad players were full of annoyance after realizing that they just wasted their time chasing the Chronos assassin for nothing!


    "The mage went to the bottom lane. The tank and marksman to the middle lane. And their assassin and support are on the top lane...What are they planning? What is this change of formation?" Brent also muttered while trying to understand the movements of the Chronos squad. He sighed and was slightly annoyed after realizing that he could not see through the formation of his opponent.


    In the end, Brent moved towards their jungle area and venting all his annoyance to all the NPCs. His rapid bullets quickly ended the life of the robotic NPCs.


    The Lee Gaming tank went straight to the middle lane trying to prevent the opponents from pushing. After Brent finished his farming, he also joined the middle lade.


    Now, the role guarding the middle lane was mirrored.


    William''s tank and Brent''s marksman vs Sofia''s Tank and Stephen''s marksman.


    Both threw their skills but also did not really pursue on the kills. It was a totally passive-aggressive gameplay where they only cleared the creeps and then went back to the jungle area once more.


    Back on the top lane, as the two players from the Lee Gaming squad marched, Claire had crossed the river and moved to their jungle area to wait for the arrival of her enemies.


    Because of the naturally high agility of the assassins in the game, Claire had been used to roaming around. It did not bother her if whether the place is the territory of the enemy or theirs. All she would do was to hide on the grass and find the perfect timing to kill.


    She glanced at the timer for her skills to fully cool down.


    Once the flicker skill became available, she immediately pressed it. Her slender fingers slide easily on her phone while the assassin directly moved towards the mage of the Lee Gaming squad!


    The background sound of the flicker alerted the two near enemies again but Claire was no longer reluctant to use her other assassin''s skills.


    This time, she was no longer too cautious of attacking the mage opponent as there were only two enemies on their lanes. She was certain that Joey can assist her attack. And they would get the first blood!


    As Claire''s assassin reached the mage, she immediately followed to activate her first skill and silenced the opponent.


    In an instant, the mage was unable to move nor use any of its skills.  Then Claire activated her ultimate skills inflicting 75% of the mage''s HP.


    After the silenced effect wore off, the mage hastily moved backward and retreated seeing that she had a quarter of HP left. If she had not used a character upgrade, her EXP would probably be just the same level as Claire. Her character would be dead by Claire''s HP!


    Luckily, she got the skin upgrade benefit.


    The mage user immediately used her second skill to stun Claire''s assassin and also utilized her ultimate.


    Claire was also immobilized for a couple of seconds after she failed to dodge the second skill of her opponent.


    By the time she was struck with the ultimate of the mage, Joey''s support already arrived to heal her!


    The exchange of skill was executed beautifully but when it comes to agility, Claire''s assassin was more fast than the Lee Gaming squad mage.


    Seeing that the assassin''s HP became full, the mage user hissed and stomped her feet. Since her companion was a fighter, her HP won''t be healed!


    "F*CK! This support is really annoying!" the mage user glared at her mobile device. She was aware that it was ideal to kill the support first before the assassin. But since her HP was already 25%, she could not attack the support anymore.


    The mage decided to move her character back to the base. For some reason, she did not opt to teleport. Instead, she just maneuvered her character to walk back to their base.


    Unfortunately for her, she did not expect that Claire already activated her invisibility and pursue her...


    Once the Chronos assassin''s presence was fully concealed, her speed became faster than the normal movement.


    Claire took a deep breath and a wicked smile appeared on her face.


    "You will be the first blood!" she stated and quickly chased the Lee Gaming squad mage!


    After five seconds of chasing, the cooldown of her skills was also done.


    As the assassin arrived, she immediately dashed forward and used her first skill to silence the enemy again. The next combo of ultimate and basic attacks followed... completely ending the life of the mage!


    First Blood!


    The audience instantly applauded.


    For a newbie, Claire had been displaying bolder gameplays every round she played.


    The first kills she had done were all satisfactory to watch.


    "Good job, Claire!" Joey muttered and was already behind Claire.


    The two started to retreat when the fighter opponent chased back Claire''s assassin.


    On the other side, the tank and marksman opponents were about to circle them to intercept their route.


    But before they could block Claire''s assassin, Sofia''s tank and Stephen''s marksman were prepared to a full clash!


    Seeing that there were four characters of the Chronos squad in the distance, the three players of the Lee Gaming squad quickly retreated.


    If only it was just the assassin of the Chronos squad, they can surely kill her.


    But it was just a wishful thinking from them since there would be no way that the Chronos squad would not back up their assassin.


    "First blood goes to the Chronos squad folks! The assassin slays the mage!" the quick voice of the older commentator reverberated at every corner of the gym.

 Chapter 88 - Championship (6)

    "This assassin user is already a first blooder! She had been taking the first kills!" one audience shouted emphasizing Claire''s contribution to every match they played.


    The next moment, the gaming forum site had almost crashed because of the spam-like posts and comments of the community.


    It had been crazy hype since morning and now that the final battle was on, the netizens were very keen on following the updates of the tournament.


    The hastags #FirstbloodChampionship and #AssassinSupremacy once again flooded the social media.


    "I will no longer say that the Chronos squad has a lot of potentials. It''s wrong! Instead, I will say that this group has met the expectations that I placed on them! They are legit great players!" the older commentator muttered on the screen while the map showed that both sides were just near the boundaries of their territories on the middle lane.


    "The mutant beast has already spawned! And the Chronos squad is going in its direction already? But the Lee Gaming squad was also just near their location..." the younger commentator narrated. Mostly, players do not attack the giant mutant after it was spawned. But he had already declared that the Chronos squad was too hard to predict. So, he did not dare make another comment. He just narrated the actions of the players!


    Meanwhile, on the players'' lounge of the Lee Gaming squad, all players do not seem tense even though the first blood was taken by the Chronos squad.


    Brent was even sitting with his legs crossed and gently swung his foot. William was also moving his head on the tempo of the background sound from the battle. The three female members also showed a small grin on their lips.


    To say, the first blood of the Chronos squad was not enough to give the Lee Gaming squad players a pressure.


    "Our levels are still higher than them! Let''s pursue their mid and force our way to destroy their tower! We can do it!" Brent commanded and signaled all his members to gather on the middle lane.


    Even if it does not bother them greatly, the members immediately understood that they have to reclaim their first blood loss.


    The first kill from their squad already gave the Chronos assassin an advantage on the overall stats.


    But since it was a 5 v 5 map, it won''t be divided into their team. Only Claire''s assassin took the benefit of it, drastically increasing all her stats by two points.


    All audience quickly focused their eyes on the large screen after the first blood.


    William''s tank was the first to engage in close combat. His character was a tyrant of the mountains that had an appearance of a masked bear. But because of their character upgrade, he looked like a bulky beast full of muscles.


    "Launch attack!" Brent signaled once more and the rest of the team marched forward.


    For some reason, their opponent did not stop them. They knew that the Chronos squad was still on the middle lane since it was the last location where they saw them.


    William swiftly pressed the ultimate skill of his character and its body instantly flew like a torpedo spinning rapidly towards the Chronos territory. It was an aggressive spinning that would last for two minutes.


    As the character entered the tower range, the defensive mode immediately activated. The middle tower instantly attacked William''s character.


    But he did not mind the attack from the tower and still continued to spin forward. He was anticipating the members of the Chronos squad would face him eventually but no one appeared on the tower.


    "Check the map, they are not here!" William spoke after he passed the first tower of the Chronos squad and curved towards the jungle area. He suddenly felt suspicious.


    "Nothing on the top lane and on the bottom lane! They are farming?" the fighter user of the Lee Gaming squad guessed.


    "AHA! They are on the giant mutant area! Let''s contest!" their mage user was the first to notice the characters of the Chronos squad circling the giant NPC.


    Just like what the commentators announced, the Chronos squad was aiming to get the aid of the giant mutant. They were attacking the NPC with all the skills they got.


    "Come on, die, die, die!" Clark murmured while assisting her team in attacking the giant mutant. Like normal gamers, he was too anxious that the last hit of the NPC would be stolen by their opponent and they would lose the kill.


    "They have seen us! Just be careful," Claire quickly told her teammates.


    "Just attack as much as you can," Stephen said while his character was throwing rain of arrows towards the giant mutant.


    With their cooperation, the HP of the mutant had been down to 35%.


    At this point, William grimaced after realizing that he had cast his ultimate. He was the tank and he should initiate any fight. However, with the absence of his ultimate skills, he would be too vulnerable!


    The swirling torpedo movement would suppose to give him immunity from all damages until the movement wore off.


    "Sorry, my ult is not yet available!" William sighed and told his teammates the cool down time of his skill.


    "Yeah, you have cast it earlier. It should take some time! But my ultimate is ready whenever we engage in combat!" the mage user commented.


    "Let''s wait for the HP of the giant mutant to decrease until it''s 10 to 5%. By that time, your cool down is already available," Brent suggested while calculating the time and the damage of the Chronos squad towards their target.


    "Alright!" their teammates quickly went to the sides and just watch in the distance while the Chronos squad continued to attack the giant NPC.


    Seeing that the movements of the Lee Gaming squad characters halted, all audiences immediately understood!


    "The Lee Gaming squad will definitely contest! They are just waiting for the beast to have a lower HP!"


    "It''s possible that they can steal the giant mutant! Their HP is still full! And the Chronos squad''s HP was less than half already!"


    The crowd began to speculate. One squad had been throwing all their skills and inflicted damages to the giant NPC while the other squad was just waiting to steal the kill!


    On the side of the Chronos squad, Sofia had already noticed the figure of her opponents. All the characters were just on her line of vision.


    "Just attack! Prepare for the clash!" Sofia stated.


    Her tank had been receiving damage from the giant NPC and it almost remained 25% in the bar. However, her expression was still calm as her tank continued to absorb the damage.


    "Are we going to clash?" Clark reluctantly asked. He was too worried about their HP.


    "Oh my gosh! They really have found us! They will surely try to steal this giant NPC! Should we stop attacking, Sof?" Joey reacted again and quickly asked Sofia.


    "Continue! Let''s get this NPC no matter what!" Sofia spoke mildly as her fingers moved fastly on the screen of her mobile device.


    "Okay, okay," Joey nodded and felt extremely tensed. Their group does not have a fighter. If they go on close combat, it would be troublesome for them to survive!


    The waiting had almost worn out the patience of the Lee Gaming squad. They just continued to watch as the HP bar of the giant mutant slowly dropped.


    "Damn! These Chronos squad! Even if they are already cooperating on fighting the giant mutant, their damage is still too low! They are lucky that my ultimate is still in cool down or else, they had been wiped out by us!" William complained about his seat.


    "It should be about time!" Brent chuckled after noticing the sullen face of William. It was ironic that the man would wish that their enemies would get a high damage!


    "Okay, my ult is available! Attack!" William ordered and without waiting for another second to pass, his character bolted like a flash of lightning. His body spun continuously towards the giant mutant.


    Seeing that William had already initiated the attack, all of his teammates followed to send an attack.


    In just a matter of a second, the HP of the giant mutant rapidly decreased by 4%.


    Brent noticed that Sofia''s tank, CEO UNRIVALED had the most low HP among all the Chronos squad players. Since the tank had been absorbing all the attacks from the giant mutant, her life was greatly compromised. As for her teammates, most of them had still over 50% of their HPs.


    "Team, use all your skills!" Brent commanded.


    The clash between the two squads was inevitable! Even if the Chronos squad wanted to escape, they would not dare do it. Otherwise, their effort of decreasing the HP of the giant NPC would be harvested by their opponents.


    When William''s tank collided with the area of the giant NPC, Brent quickly glided to the side and positioned his marksman to aim for Sofia. He was certain that just by three hits of his marksman, Sofia''s tank will die... or so he thought?


    In the next seconds, the bullets from Brent''s marksman flung out and struck Sofia''s tank!


    Undeniably, the three gunshots sound from his weapon stimulated the excitement of their audience across online and on the gym.

 Chapter 89 - Championship (7)

    The tension spread like a wild fire refusing to be subdued inside the gym!


    William''s movement of his character was too perfect to see in the eye. It was one of the proofs that their squad had not only money but also skills.


    "Good choice of tank, Young Master William! I am also a tank user and I know that this character is hard to maneuver!" someone that was sitting on the front seat of the bleacher loudly praised William''s performance.


    "Oh wow! The tank of the Lee Gaming squad was really good at executing the ultimate skill of the bear. If it was me playing that character, I will surely become a feeder!" another audience on the backside applauded.


    "That''s right! Not all players can master this character because of the risky close combat," the audience sitting next to her muttered in agreement.


    Those who were watching actively all the match could only mutter the same thing!


    "Would CEO UNRIVALED die from the enemy marksman bullets? Surely with the sound of three gunshots, any character would not be able to recover their HP back!"


    Everyone followed the same question. With Sofia''s tank having low HP there was no doubt, the three bullets from the gunner of Lee Gaming''s squad were more than enough to end her life.


    The majority of their attention was focused not on William''s execution of his ultimate but on the HP bar of CEO UNRIVALED.


    It was too eye catching to be ignored!


    Sofia''s character was also hit by William''s tank making her HP on the critical bar line.


    "Nice hit!" Sofia muttered in her seat. But her face maintained an unbothered expression despite the HP of her character. If only her audience could read her mind, they would surely be shocked!


    All the audience could guess this result but the two commentators have seen a different possibility.


    "The Chronos squad continues to attack the giant mutant that is about to die! Can they sustain against the harassment of their enemies though?" the older commentator asked. But he had realized something after speaking his remarks.


    He saw a probability that CEO UNRIVALED would remain alive even if the clash between two squads ensued!


    "There was a small chance for the tank to survive! If the Chronos squad can play in full synchrony then, they can make it!" the younger commentator also recognized the probability of Sofia''s character to survive.


    In the bleacher''s area, some audience also voiced their opinions.


    "If the tank dies, it is worth it as long as they got the last hit of the giant mutant."


    "Yes, as long as they gain the giant mutant! But their HP was low now. How are they going to contest the kill of this NPC?"


    "There is no way for the tank of the Chronos squad would survive! Her HP was very low! And ll the Lee Gaming squad is sending an attack! She will never be able to withstand!"


    "If the Chronos squad tank dies and the Lee Gaming squad gets the giant mutant, then, it would be a victory right away! Lee Gaming squad will surely win!"


    The audience noise began to get louder and louder while watching the clash of the two sides. The screen had become chaotic again.


    All players utilized their skills causing an explosion animation and other effects near the giant mutant.


    Seconds passed and CEO UNRIVALED dropped her HP to 2% after the final bullet hit her!


    "OH NO! One a hit of CEO UNRIVALED and The Chronos squad tank is dead!" one audience shouted as he could not contain his excitement. The people near him laughed slightly and continued but did not respond to him.


    On the large screen, the perspective focused directly on Sofia''s tank.


    After reaching the lowest HP status she had ever experienced, she moved a little bit to avoid the other attacks from her opponents. There was not even a single line that can be seen virtually on the HP bar of her character as it stood on the side, trying to avoid the opponents.


    She had reached almost equivalent to zero... but the online game still relied on statistics.  Almost does not define absolute value.


    Therefore, even if it is 2% or .1%, as long as the HP had not yet fully drained, the character can still be salvage!


    Brent smiled as he anticipated that CEO UNRIVALED would die. "One hit and I''ll get this kill!"


    But before he could witness his opponent''s tank fall on the ground, the announcement of the giant mutant''s death prompted on his screen. He almost dropped his jaw on the floor at what he had read on the screen.


    The Chronos Squad - Dangerous Predator killed the Giant Mutant!


    "What! Damn!!! Fight!! Fight!!!" William angrily pressed the skills on his screen as he became more aggressive.


    He also noticed the critical HP of Sofia, but, she was too far from her. The nearest opponent that she could pick was Claire''s assassin.


    Meanwhile, on the side of the Chronos squad, all members mentally leaped in joy after seeing that it was Stephen''s marksman who got the last hit of the mutant!


    Dangerous Predator, who had sent a single arrow by pressing his passive skill performed the perfect timing!


    Even if their opponents were casting other skills and ultimate, he still got the last hit!


    However, killing the giant mutant was just the start of their real conflict!


    "What a lucky hit! Now the Chronos has gained another ally! The giant mutant would definitely give them an upper hand despite the level gap of their characters!" the older commentator clapped his hands together with the audience on the bleachers.


    The crowd immediately broke into cheers after the system announcement prompted on the large screen. Soon after, they were yelling by the next series of actions the players displayed!


    Sofia''s most critical HP was restored by another 5 percent as Joey cast a heal on her. Now, she had a 7% HP in total which made the Lee Gaming squad felt grieved.


    She did sustain the attacks!


    "Hitting a tank is really a tricky decision! It is better if the Lee Gaming squad targeted the Chronos support to prevent him from healing his allies!" the older commentator immediately analyzed the progress of the game. To him, it was still the healer who must be killed first. Despite if the tank had the lowest HP, if an ally healer is next, it would be easy to recover.


    Not only the Lee Gaming squad failed to steal the giant mutant, they had not yet killed anyone from their opponent''s side yet!


    "ATTACK! Get their support!" Brent ordered simultaneously after seeing that his target had managed to recover from the three shots he sent to her character!


    The five opponents charged forward and decided to chase their enemies.


    As the characters of the Lee Gaming squad gathered together, Sofia suddenly moved to them and cast her hooks.


    Stephen quickly prepared the rain of arrows to the enemy and when Sofia signaled the attack, he instantly took all his arrows to attack.


    "It seemed that nobody is willing to back out! They have to score!" the older commentator stated.


    Clark''s mage had focused on his cool down reduction. Now that he managed to pick the item to reduce his cool down, he easily threw all his skills to assist his teammate.


    "Be careful! Their assassin had gone invisible!" William told his teammates after seeing that Claire''s assassin was no longer standing with the other Chronos squad members.


    "Let''s retreat! We cannot underestimate the giant mutant! Let''s block its way first before talking about clashing.


    "That''s right. Defend first, don''t worry, we still have higher HP. We can overturn our situation soon! Don''t worry too much!" Brent quickly consoled. He had realized that even if they wanted to pursue clashing with the Chronos squad, they can not let another tower be destroyed.


    "Okay, let''s defend!" the members said in chorus.


    After the members agreed to defend their towers first, all of them teleported back to their base for them to recover their mana and HP...


    Not long after, the giant mutant marched towards the top lane. All the members of the Chronos squad, except Claire, were at the back of the giant mutant waiting for the right timing to attack.


    "Their assassin is really missing in action. Be careful! This assassin had gotten the first blood and had good stats like us. It can give us a one-hit combo and another kill will be inevitable for her!" Brent''s sister reminded all her group mates. She remembered that the lady does not have any legit background.


    "TSK! Two annoying characters!" the mage user spoke and glared coldly at the giant beast.


    But after she looked on her screen, she realized that her character had been silenced!


    "AHH, backup, back up!" the mage user tensed after noticing the shadow of the Chronos assassin. She did not want to get the second death as well!


    "Just retreat! Don''t fight with the assassin!" Brent instructed.

 Chapter 90 - Championship (8)

    Despite Brent changing his squad''s objectives various times in just a few minutes of the game, the members were all quick to adjust. It was common for them to adapt to whatever unprecedented situation they faced. At this time, they clearly understood that it would be more practical to retreat.


    Their squad also possessed teamwork and every member respected Brent greatly for his position. Although their status in real life was relatively the same, they still opted to be ordered around.


    "The assassin is on my left side. It was concealing its presence using the grass! I saw its shadow sneaking," the mage narrated as it skipped away from the location. ''I had died once from the sneaky attack of this assassin, there was no way I would fall for the same tactic again!'' she mentally added.


    "I''ll cover you guys. My skills are all available again," William presented as he moved towards the mage until their characters have moved on to the more suitable and safe area.


    Instead of pushing the mid, they quickly planned to teleport right to the top lane so that they can make preparations for the coming attack of the giant mutant.


    "Now, our main goal is to suppress the giant mutant and fight against it! We can''t let it attack our tower. Hurry!" Brent continued to command his teammates while all of their characters stood on the ground and were about to use the teleport command.


    The large screen specifically zoomed in as the animation effects of their teleportation started.


    "WOW!"


    "Isn''t that teleportation effect cost so much?"


    "Look at their characters and the map, why do you sound surprised by just an animation effect?"


    The audience muttered all their praises while the teleportation effect was highlighted on the large screen. If it was not zoomed in, then they would only see a quick change of light on the effect.


    "What a flex! That folks... is how you flex your money!" the two commentators slightly laugh and smiled as they admired the animation effects that continued to bubble around the characters.


    Even the person that controls the perspective of the large screen was grinning ear to ear as the animations continued to play on his monitor.


    The teleportation effects were undeniably great to watch. Some characters produced golden and silver lights while others have playful objects floating magically that matched the skin upgrades of their characters.


    These animation effects would give the characters a sense that it would be drifting somewhere. It would look like the characters were about to be engulfed by an invisible force before they will appear at their chosen destination.


    Hearing the commentators'' remarks, all audience laughed understanding their feelings with what they saw. Some giggle loudly while others started to discuss if the animation effect was worthy to buy.


    "I don''t even have this kind of teleportation effect, man! The Lee Gaming squad are legends with this stuff!" the younger commentator added playfully. There was a bit of envy in his tone.


    "There must be a good hashtag for this scene... I think it should be, #onlyTheLeeGamers!" the older commentator suggested and the laughter from the audience became louder.


    It was indeed a total flex for most of the gamers, these animation effects were known to be the most expensive effects offered in the game. It would cost triple the regular cost.


    It meant, only a few gamers could afford it. Some of the pro scenes did not even get this effect!


    Brent glanced at the overall map while his character has not yet arrived at their destination. His eyes were almost not blinking as he concentrated on their battle.


    After the giant mutant was slain, it would respawn and help the Chronos eventually.


    But it would still take half a minute to respawn and assist the Chronos squad as the system of the game would read first which lane the mutant would go.


    This NPC was programmed to follow the lane that had the easiest access going to the opponent''s base. Meaning, the codes of the game would make a quick calculation of the map first before the giant mutant would come back to life and do its mission.


    "I can''t believe the Chrons squad got the last hit! What great luck they have! I was pretty hopeful that we could steal the mutant!" William clicked his tongue as he maneuvered his tank. He wanted to pursue and attack their opponents but after realizing that Claire''s assassin had gone invisible, he could not take the risk.


    "It''s more than luck. The tank did not even die!" the fighter user shook her head as he saw how CEO UNRIVALED had restored its HP before they could kill it.


    "Well, it''s not yet time for us to kill. Later, we will surely wipe them out!" William chuckled.


    They may get the opportunity to kill a member of the Chronos squad but a direct clash after the giant mutant would be summoned by their opponent would be unproductive. It would mean they have to trade the security of their top lane.


    "Actually, they are catching up! Their marksman and assassin are the same levels as us!" Brent''s sister reminded them immediately after noticing that the EXP gap of their characters was no longer as great as earlier.


    "I''m wrong to attack their tank! I was too confident that I could slay it with my bullets. I''ve neglected the presence of their support!" Brent reflected on his mistake right away. He knew that it would be most ideal to kill the healer first but because of CEO UNRIVALED''s low HP, he was still tempted to aim at her.


    "Wait, their leveling becomes abnormal! Their characters should be just on level 6 after they got the giant mutant. But why is it that the assassin and marksman is level 9 like us? And the three others are level 8?" William suddenly asked as he cast a glance at the overall stats of their enemies.


    "OH, it must be the effect of special character crest!" Brent immediately responded and also tap at the stats window on his device. The game would not show this crest but its effect would be hard to miss out on.


    "Which character crest? They are not using the default crest for their characters?" William frowned as he never really changed his tank character crest.


    "The one that boosts EXP," Brent replied.


    The character crests would allow a boost ability to a particular user, similar to how emblems and badges work on other mobile games. The boost would happen when certain conditions are met by the character during the battle.


    For this game, there are ten various character crests that players could choose from: Marksman crest give characters an additional range of their attacks by percentage. But it will only be activated once the character reached the max level.


    Tank crest gives characters additional defense power once 90% of their HP would be lost in a clash.


    Assassin crest gives extra physical damage as long as there would be a fallen sword on its item inventory. It was the most expensive item that cost 4000 gold.


    Mage crest gives mana reduction consumption whenever the character reaches the max level. It would also potentially give make a more wide AoE attack if there is a magician staff on the character''s inventory.


    Basically, all roles provided in the game had their default crest. But there were only six current roles available in the game: Assassin, Mage, Fighter, Support, Marksman, and Tank. And not all players would use this type of crest for the items could also give a similar effect on it. Sometimes, it would also be more effective for their gameplay to explore other crests.


    Mostly, players opt to use special character crests as it gives an overall advantage over just the boost of skills.


    The roaming crest boosts speed and jungle damage. Most junglers used it to farm easily. If the farming would be quick then characters would gain buffs from the jungle monsters. Stealing jungles would be executed smoothly as well.


    Then, there is a gold crest that boosts earning of gold depending on the character''s KDA status. When the character obtained higher gold earnings than the rest, it can easily discard one item to another. Some players would like to switch their items from time to time but it would cost so much gold. So, they would usually opt to use this gold crest.


    The third is EXP crest that worked similarly to the gold crest. The only difference is it gives extra EXP for every kills the squad attained. EXP crest applies to the entire squad but the gold crest is an individual bost. This meant even if one member would use the EXP crest all of its benefits would connect to the entire team.


    Lastly, the morph crest. This is the most rarely used crest as gamers have not yet fully grasped how to use the crest. Even those gamers on the pro scene and gaming tacticians have not yet come up with a solid strategy to use the morph crest.


    William immediately realized that one of the Chronos squad players must have used the EXP crest. And the first blood had given them more EXP after the crest was activated. But who activated the crest?

 Chapter 91 - Championship (9)

    "Could it be their tank? Do you think CEO UNRIVALED is activating the EXP crest? Maybe she abandoned extra defense boost and go for the benefits of her team instead," William murmured loudly as his character finally teleported to the top lane. He crossed both of his legs and adjusted his sitting position to a more comfortable one.


    In the game, it was too common for the tank or support role who usually use EXP crest. Hence, the boy was quick to point fingers towards the tank.


    "It could be?" the other teammates did the same. They nodded their head and crossed their legs.


    Since their movements were mostly synchronized when they crossed their legs and leaned back to the chair, some audience who noticed this could not help but giggle.


    The players even twisted their necks from side to side just to make sure that their bodies won''t feel stiff.


    However, after a few more minutes, they noticed something that does not fit with their guess.


    "I don''t think it''s the tank. The item in her inventory is mostly to sustain damage," the fighter user of the Lee Gaming squad furrowed her brows while taking a peek of the inventory list and saw shield and armor there. She was not convinced that CEO UNRIVALED was using such type of of special crest.


    "That''s right! It''s not the tank. Maybe it''s the assassin or support?" the mage user suggested.


    "Based on her item build, it''s not her too. It should be their marksman," Brent immediately comprehended who among the five opponents was using the EXP crest.


    On the inventory list of Stephen''s marksman, he saw only swift arrows which provide extra attack speed on the character. There was no item that would give his attack extra damage.


    "This might be the reason why they were able to contest the giant mutant. The marksman was prioritizing the attack speed rather than his damage!" Brent added.


    "Alright, then our goal is to eliminate the marksman or the support first. If the marksman won''t die then they would surely catch up with us!" Brent''s sister suggested right away.


    The rest agreed and made a humming sound before they concentrated back on their characters.


    Brent looked calmly on his screen. Then his mind drifted to Sofia,


    ''This girl is so hard to predict! What is the strategy that they are using?''


    Now that they know about the special crest, the felt at ease.


    However, it was rather unusual for the marksman to use a special crest. Most of the players would prefer for extra damage boost or an extra attack range boost when playing this role.


    It was more fitting for the role to get this crest and the majority of players used it all the time. It was something that pro players would not use in the tournaments.


    As half a minute passed, the system finally announced that the giant mutant was summoned by the Chronos squad.


    "It''s here. Prepare your skills and we will intercept this giant!" Brent''s sister reminder the group to sit properly and be ready for the incoming products.


    The NPC easily strode from the base of the Chronos side following to the top lane. While it was marching towards the cemented ground, the background sound had a faint drumroll giving the tense setup.


    The Lee Gaming squad was completely prepared for the arrival of this giant NPC. They constantly took a peek at the map and then the location of their enemies.


    On the side of the Chronos squad, most of them had also teleported back to the base to restore their HP and MP. Only Claire''s assassin can be seen roaming around the jungle territory of her opponent. Because of the giant mutant,  farming the buff of her opponent became so easy.


    This new NPC ally of the Chronos squad was the strongest among all the NPC monsters of the game.


    Its bulky body and large HP bar above its body were enough for any enemy to know how tough this monster was. But, the ally won''t be controlled by players.


    It has only one dynamic, to attack the territories of their opponent until it reached the base. It would not collaborate with the movements of the Chronos squad. Instead, it would go straight to one single lane.


    This NPC would focus on destroying the base and would not mind attacking the players. It would only attack enemies if the character would provoke it or if it would be blocking its path.


    If the player gets out of its attack range, the giant mutant would just proceed to charge forward and attack the tower until it reached the base.


    While the giant mutant arrived on the top lane where the Lee Gaming squad was the situation, the players were confused. They have anticipated the Chronos squad would follow this NPC however, there was not a single shadow from them around.


    "Ohh, they are not here! It should be easy for us to tackle this giant mutant and end its life!" the mage user happily announced. She finally felt at ease that the Chronos squad was not pushing to charge together with the NPC.


    "Yes, it is. But be careful of your positioning. They might sneak attack," Brent murmured as he started to fire all the bullets on his guns. He pressed all his skills and displayed a beautiful combo.


    But at the back of his head, Brent could not help but asked something. ''What is really the plans of the Chronos squad?''


    There was no way for Sofia to let the NPC charge the top lane alone without any plans. Somehow, he knew that his opponent was up for something yet he could not see through their plans. He started to felt agitated and glanced at his members.


    "Ohh, why are the Chronos squad players not helping the NPC? It should be a great opportunity to get an upper hand against their opponent!" the younger commentator curiously asked. It would seem that the squad had deliberately abandoned the opportunity granted for them to get the advantage. After the hard work and effort, they have done for killing this NPC, they just ditched the giant mutant!


    "Hehe, I can only think of one thing. The Chronos squad was also flexing their skills against the Lee Gaming squad. The message was clear!" the older commentator clapped happily as he looked at the player''s movement on the map.


    "What message is clear? I just don''t have the proper insights behind their movements right now!" the younger commentator probed further feeling a deep hole of emptiness was forming on his chest.


    "The message is simple. They will win without any advantages of NPC and upgrades. Just early in their match, we have seen that the Lee Gaming squad had flexed the map and their skins. This time, the Chronos squad was also flexing their skills!" the older commentator answered right away.


    "Ohh, isn''t it a bit too risky! What if they don''t win at the end of this match, then they will end up being embarrassed?" the younger commentator stated after realizing what was going on.


    "Of course, that could also happen. It''s how this game became more interesting! Would this be worthy for the Chronos squad to declare their skills and showed to the audience their dominance? Or would it be a waste of opportunity that would make them fall eventually?" the older commentator spoke loudly.


    On the large screen, the audience could see that the Chronos squad had started to gather on the bottom lane. No one really went to the location of their enemy.


    As the Lee Gaming squad got the open spot to fight the NPC, it only took another half of a minute for them to slay the giant mutant. It did not even supply any damage to their territories as they intercepted it before it could attack.


    When the giant mutant was gone, Brent also felt that the Chronos squad was toying them around even before the start of the game.


    "Ohh... really? Hehe, we are not your toys!" Brent grumbled as his eyebrows lift as if he was completely pissed for realizing this late.


    "What are you saying? What toys?" William who heard his random remark quickly asked. He had not yet realized the deliberate movements of the Chronos squad as it seemed done randomly.


    "Our enemy is toying us! I have analyzed it properly now! Look, at first, we thought that they would ambush us in the bottom lane. But when we arrived at the bottom lane, they switched positions easily teleported away instead of fighting at us! Now, they have killed this giant mutant but they did not attack us. Do you know how insulting this is?" Brent tightened the grip of his hand.


    If his phone was not a high-end brand, its screen would have cracked open by now. The feeling of being toyed greatly affected his momentum. But it also provided him great stimulation on our body after eating it.


    "So, they are actually manipulating our gameplay? Wow! I admit, I did not see it that way!" the mage user admitted and her face turned sour.

 Chapter 92 - Championship (10)

    Brent produced a dry laugh and studied the map for a few seconds.


    "Hahaha... This is so her! Sigh! Alright, let the real game begin!" he spoke enthusiastically.


    His battle morale surged higher after his realization. It was as if Sofia had just aggro him completely!


    "Since the Chronos squad are in their bottom lane, let''s push this top lane!" William murmured and rotated his thumb on the mobile screen.


    "Let''s split! I''ll go get some buffs and then follow me to their bottom lane when you guys are done. We will clash! Just don''t face solo if there is an assassin," Brent stated, and then his marksman character moved towards their jungle. He planned to farm first and take their buffs before engaging in a full clash on the bottom lane.


    While the gunner character was moving to the area of the jungle monsters, Brent also took a peek at the inventory and the individual stats of all the players in the match. His face turned serious while reading the particular stats of CEO UNRIVALED.


    "Hehe, I am about to go to level 11. And they are about to hit level 10. This is really troublesome!" Brent mumbled. He would not deny that he was also taking advantage of his character upgraded. He was well aware that if he was not using a skin, his character might be a little lower than the Chronos squad members.


    After a few strides of the gunner, a deep frown etched deep on Brent''s forehead. He arrived in the area only to find out that it was an empty jungle.


    All the buffs for him had been stolen by his enemy!


    "TSK! Damn. What a trouble! I have no buff!" Brent could only curse and move towards the middle lane. He carefully shoots all the creeps along his way as he continued to move towards the bottom lane.


    As Brent stepped on the wall where the giant mutant NPC was supposed to spawn, he saw the archer of the Chronos squad heading on his way.


    Brent saw an opportunity and quickly pressed the button of his first skill.


    On the other side, Stephen also used his passive skill to draw his arrow.


    Since they were using different characters, their combos where also different. The gunner combo was first skill + ULT + second skill. Meanwhile, the archer''s combo was passive skill + ULT + first skill


    Both players became alert and fire a shot of different weapons. One produced a bullet while the other shoot an arrow. Their characters stood on the ground and looked dignified. The archer was dressed like a warrior while the gunner was dressed like a hitman in a black suit.


    The bullets'' movement produced a silver aura as part of the animation effect for the skin upgrade of the gunner that Brent was using. The beautiful silver-white line formed on the air behind the metal traveling at fast speed.


    Meanwhile, on the side of the archer, a simple arrow moved forward in a straight line. The appearance of this weapon was too common but as the audience looked at the close-up perspective of the camera, they could feel that the arrow was moving at a terrifying speed.


    These two weapons swiftly moved on the air and collided with each other in a perfect projectile.


    Peng!


    The sound of the collision followed to echo on the entire gym and both players quickly positioned their characters to a more advantageous place.


    "AHH! That''s so good to see! Very good aim!"


    "Woohhhh!!! Arrow vs bullet!!! These two marksman users have great skills!"


    "In theory, it is so hard to make two weapons collide! At most, it is better to dodge it. Nice gameplay!"


    Seeing the impact of the two weapons, the audience applauded and some even stood in hope that they would clap louder than the others. They were all impressed! As for which side they are taking, they had not taken any.


    These audiences were regular players who had a daily routine of playing the game. At some point in their gaming life, they have used both gunner and archer roles. Especially during the very beginning of the game tutorials.


    To them, both were performing well. Their skills were all excellent!


    While the entire audience was busy cheering from their seats, the collision was again replayed by the operator into a slower motion. Those who had missed taking a video of the highlight quickly got their phone and recorded the slower version.


    Another video clip was quickly added to the trending posts of the gaming forum. The topics related to archers and gunners quickly flooded in the comment sections. Memes also emerged as the video was being screenshotted and shared so many times in just a matter of seconds!


    After the replay of the initial clashing of weapons was made, five more arrows from the archer were launched on the air traveling faster than the first.


    "Whoah?! Another five arrows?! That''s... This archer has an insane attack speed! " the younger commentator quickly realized the speed of Stephen''s marksman. His mouth was wide open for a while his attention was planted on the game.


    "You''re right! Usually, there should be two or three arrows after the initial attack. But seeing the five arrows in just a matter of seconds, this attack speed is too fast!" the older commentator followed agreeing that the attack speed of the archer was insanely fast!


    As these commentators looked at the five arrows continuously traveling to the air, Brent immediately moved his character to the left side. He just took one step avoiding the four arrows.


    The fifth arrow pierced right through the gunner''s body before it disappeared. A damage text was highlighted in an instant before the gunner''s HP quickly decreased by just 2%.


    "Wait! Why is it 2% of damage only? That was the ultimate of the archer right? The damage is considerably low!" the younger commentator stated. Even though that it was done a lightning speed, it did not escape his eyes. He was certain that the archer used its ultimate skill.


    "I think so..." the older commentator paused and was also baffled. He quickly analyzed the stats and items of the archer that was shown on the large screen.


    Ultimate skills of marksman role usually gave full physical damage. Some of the characters can even kill in just a single hit if the item build was full. It was expected that the gunner would lose more HP after getting hit by the arrow.


    But after they saw the remaining HP of Brent''s gunner, they could not help but criticized how the archer''s damage was too little to none! They even felt offended even though they are not playing the game. They felt that the user of the archer must be punished for his mistake of not providing sufficient damage.


    "It looks like the marksman is not focusing on the burst damage! Well, this is also understandable because they have an assassin ally. Their assassin must be their core for him not to get the extra physical damage!" the older commentator replied.


    "I think I know why," the younger commentator nodded his head but did not continue speaking.


    After the five arrows were disappeared and handled by the gunner, another three more arrows come to the side of Brent''s marksman! This time, he did not bother to dodge for he knew that its damage won''t slay his gunner.


    "F*ck! Another three arrows! That speed is a cheat!" an audience could not help but shout but his voice was also drowned by the loud cheering of the crowd.


    "How can a marksman produce 9 arrows in just a short period of time? Is his character has no cooldown?" another man pondered whilst the three arrows penetrated the body of Brent''s gunner.


    Since Brent did not move out of his original position the audience becomes alarmed.


    "Dodge LODS! Move away from the arrows!"


    "Idol move! Don''t let your character hit the arrow!"


    Then, as the three arrows stuck on the gunner''s body again, they realized the flaw of Stephen''s stats.  Only then does the majority of the audience realized that Stephen''s archer had low physical damage.


    If Stephen dodge then they would not notice the flaw right away.


    "Ohh, I see! So, this archer user is actually unbalanced! He is really a newbie!"


    "Well, this explains his great attack speed. He neglected his extra damage!"


    "I was about to believe that this archer is cheating! It turns out that he only had a speed but no physical damage!"


    The audience''s admiration quickly became series of ridicules.


    Because of this nonstandard choice of stats, they quickly deemed the archer as a newbie.


    Usually in the game, the team would really rely heavily on marksman''s physical damage and mage''s magical damage in a clash for them to defeat their enemy.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    As the sound of the gunshot from Brent''s marksman rang on the entire battlefield, it followed with three more gunshots.  Brent pursued his attack! He could feel his heart beating and he was smiling subconsciously on the screen.

 Chapter 93 - Championship (11)

    The feeling of being fully immersed in his desire of defeating his opponent''s archer and getting the intense excitement enveloped Brent''s entire mood. His grin became bigger and bigger as he pressed the gunner skills continuously to pursue the archer! More background sound of gunshots followed to echo in the entire gym.


    Brent was very determined to chase his opponent. They have exchanged their weapons now and he was certain that the archer was no threat to him! There was no way he would not chase his opponent!


    ''I will end you! How dare you throw these low damage arrows at me! You really have guts to provoke my character when you can''t even take half of my HP!'' he secretly thought while his gunner was moving to another position.


    These two characters circled on the wall and rocks then they crossed on the grass. As for the movement speed, the two were using the same type of boots so they have equal speed.


    Brent''s teammates quickly saw that their founder was now enjoying the match. The man was smiling even though there was a small frown on his forehead. It only meant one thing. Their founder was savoring this battle!


    "Let''s finish this top lane!" Brent''s sister murmured as she focused her attack on the tower of the Chronos squad.


    While Brent was moving towards the archer, the top lane tower of the Chronos squad was also destroyed by William''s tank and the other female players.


    The notification of their achievement was quickly announced by the system. The group quickly moved forward.


    "Nice, let''s push the second tower?" the fighter user asked curiously. She wanted to take the opportunity to push since there was no enemy in the top lane yet.


    Since the game had progressed for almost 8 minutes, it was all normal to get the second tower by now. However, their tank user shook his head and all of them stopped charging.


    "NO! Let''s join young master Brent to the bottom lane. Pushing the second tower is boring! Let''s enjoy playing first! We can always push later when I get our enemies wiped out!" William quickly replied. Then he pressed the teleportation button on his mobile screen to teleport at the bottom lane. The three females silently followed him.


    On the other side, the archer was retreating but did not stop throwing arrows at the gunner. His skills had almost become unlimited because of his attack speed. It was almost perfect however, one major flaw of character loses his effectiveness in their combat. His physical damage was not enough to contend with the gunner!


    "AHH! This archer is really noob! Noob! Noob! Why did he prioritize the attack speed?" one of the FAB_Gamers squad snickered after seeing the useless attack of Stephen''s marksman. He was so angry at the battle scene that he repeatedly yelled the word ''noob'' to vent all his frustration.


    "Why are you so affected?" WINS looked at the member for a second before his attention return to the screen. He could not help but be amused by the man''s reaction.


    "I am so affected Boss WINS! I want the Chronos to be the champion but this marksman is hopeless!!! How can they win if their long-range attacker does not contain sufficient physical damage?" the member almost pulled his hair and his face had turned red.


    "This is their tactics. The marksman is not entirely hopeless," WINS told his member calmly.


    "What kind of ridiculous tactic is that? Who made that trash tactic! Argh! It''s not tight to follow trashy strategies!" the member continued with his rant.


    "If I tell you that the Chronos squad created this strategy, do you still react like that?" WINS smirked and questioned the man.


    "Are you sure? Boss WINS, we should have shared our strategy with the Chronos squad, no?" the man suggested.


    Upon hearing this suggestion his other companion hit his shoulder hard with a fist.


    "What are you saying?! Can''t you see that with this strategy the Chronos squad is not placed in a very disadvantage position?!" his companion scolded.


    "Huh? Ohh..." the member paused and then stared blankly at the screen. His line of sight focused on the stats of the players and realized that his companion was right! The Chronos squad had almost the same level as the Lee Gaming squad.


    "Just now, I was just looking at the two marksman users fighting!" he quickly defended. Because he was unable to see the stats, he had almost had a meltdown in anger for Stephen''s gameplay.


    "In the normal eyes, this tactic is hard to analyze. This is because we cannot see the character crest of the participants. So, it''s normal to assume that the marksman is using a crest that is recommended for his role. But in the expert''s eyes, it''s different," WINS started to explain.


    The man who had really pulled hair earlier slowly combed back the mess that he made to himself. But still, confusion was all over his face.


    "The marksman of the Chronos squad is using the EXP character crest. When he activated the crest, he had no choice but to trade an ability that would make his gameplay effective," WINS continued to explain.


    To say, it may not look efficient on the eyes of the majority that the archer does not have sufficient physical damage, still, it was the most effective choice for him to give a maximum contribution to his squad. He had already contributed too much just by using the special crest. And it was more than enough for the squad.


    "So, their physical damage? AHHH!!! I see, phew, now I understand!" the man sheepishly smile after he reflected everything on the player''s stats as well as their item build in the inventory panel.


    "It''s good if you understand now!" his other companion raised an eyebrow to him and crossed his arms around his chest.


    "Yes, I was just carried away with their battle. Now I know their tactic. Hehehe" the man looked apologetic and smiled. He realized that he really wronged the marksman user. He even called the man a noob!


    "Their tactic is well crafted. It is specially made for their opponent. Because their opponents used character upgrades, they knew that they would be at a disadvantage. So, they found this way to counter the EXP problem," WINS supplied so that the man would understand well.


    Clark was still clearing the creeps when he noticed that his companions had moved near the wall. Sofia''s tank and Joey''s support left him on the bottom lane. He suddenly felt at loss for no one in his teammates had signaled to gather or gank.


    ''We did not join the giant mutants by attacking the opponent''s side. Now they are going to the river area... should I ask them?'' Clark mentally asked after he could no longer see all his allies.


    Clark was still relying upon signals from his teammates. He rarely checked the map or stats of his opponents too. In fact, he was not used to pressing many commands on his mobile screen. The man had yet to develop the skills that the pro players really had for the tournaments.


    "Why are you guys moving? Should I come with you?" Clark directly asked them. At first, he felt awkward asking questions like this as he felt that it was an embarrassment that he had to ask such simple and basic kinds of stuff. But now, the question easily flew out of his mouth before he could think what he was asking his teammates.


    "It''s okay, Clark. Focus on your cool down reduction! Later, we need your attacks!" Joey casually speak.


    "Clark, just stay in the bottom lane. After you clear the creeps, teleport to the middle lane and push. Avoid close combat and be careful in the jungle area," Sofia''s solemn voice quickly followed as she gave the series of instructions to Clark.


    Of course, since there was no signal for their team to gather, it was not time for Clark to fight.


    ''''Okay, I will go to the middle lane now. Be careful ---- AHH!" Clark said while nodding his head repeatedly.  But soon, he almost jumped in his chair as William''s tank appeared in front of him.


    "Calm down and focus, Clark!" Sofia stated. She did not ask what had happened to him.  She had seen their opponents on the map surrounding Clark.


    "I''ll sprint towards you," Joey stated while also looking at the map.


    This tank leaped on his area and spun its body continuously. Clark was hit by the initial leap and now, his character was directly stunned!


    The moment his mage was overpowered by the tank, he successively pressed the button on his phone to request for back up. His cold sweat broke on his forehead and ran down to his cheeks. But he was more concern to his character''s HP than his face.


    "Guys, save me! I was caught by the tank!" Clark urged them.


    "Just hang in there Clark. Don''t panic. Try to escape if you have a chance," Sofia stated as all of them moved back towards his location.


    "I don''t think I can survive, guys! My HP is almost gone!" Clark stated.


    He was really in deep trouble! Clark had not really pay attention to the map. So, he did not see that the Lee Gaming Squad characters were also going in his direction.

 Chapter 94 - Championship (12)

    "Oh, no! I''m done, I''m really done! I can''t escape! Tssk!!! If only I have checked the map to see their location earlier!!!" Clark murmured when he saw two more enemies on his line of vision. There was a mage and a fighter arriving in a swift motion.


    "Just focus, Clark. Check for an opportunity to escape! Find an opportunity or make an opportunity if there is none!" Sofia instructed him.


    Ideally, the lady always use this line not in gaming but in business.


    To her, opportunity exist everywhere. In her previous life, she believed that recognizing an opportunity just depends to someone''s ability to see the opportunity.


    She does not know if the boy would be able to grasp what she meant behind those words but, what she was certain is that, Clark was already in the state of panic.


    "Clark, as long as you can withstand for just a couple of second, I will be able to heal you," Joey told him in a serious tone while his support character was trailing behind Sofia.


    On the other side, the two marksmen were minding their business and were still circling around the wall near the river area.


    "AHH!" Clark gulped and he felt that he would be suffocated by his own air.


    No matter how stern the voice of Sofia telling him to calm down, Clark still felt the rapid pacing of his heartbeat on his chest.


    Perhaps, it was because they were already playing for the championship of the tournament. And the idea of his character dying made him too anxious.


    "Clark, this is just a game. This is meant to be enjoyed. Don''t get frustrated," Sofia reminded him after realizing that he was really in a critical emotion.


    If only she could give her calmness or share it to him, she would definitely do it. Seeing her member frustrated like this made Sofia question if they joined the tournament too early?


    She could tell that Clark''s behavior seemed not yet ready to take any defeat. This kind of mentality might affect him as a whole and not just in the perspective of gaming.


    Seeing the struggle of Clark''s mage on the large screen, the audience became tensed as well.


    "The mage was captured! He can actually escape if he will use purify ability. Does he not know about the purify ability the mage role?" one of the expert mage user on the side of the bleacher uttered in dismay.


    "Maybe he had forgotten how to use the purify!" the other audience suggested the possibility."


    "He is good as dead!" another one chirped in.


    The three audiences were all wearing simple T-Shirts with mage characters. One could easily guess that they were mage users too!


    "The Chronos mage is cornered now! What is he going to do? Can this player still escape from the hand of his enemy? That is a perfect ambush from the Lee Gaming squad!" the oldest commentator spoke calmly. He had started to brew another set of tea to make his body keep up his energy from the whole day''s event.


    "I agree. The HP of the Chronos mage had almost been over. There is no way for him to survive!" the youngest commentator answered. Unlike his companion, he had been drinking bottled to relax his mouth from commentating.


    The two commentators stopped talking for a while as they observed the attacks of both side.


    "Clark, just try to escape once the stunned effect is gone. How about you purify the major movement attack you are receiving from them? I still need few seconds to arrive in your location," Claire cheered the man even if the situation had gone from bad to worst.


    "I am chained stunned by the tank and the mage, Claire. Their timing is perfect, I can''t escape!" Clark responded.


    He released a frustrated sigh while looking over at his character. No matter how he pressed his skills, his mage could not move. The stunning effect from the opponents was perfectly timed!


    This scene of his mage being immobilized quickly made him felt a little depressed  and it only took several breaths for his opponents to chain stun his mage and killed it.


    It was a hopeless for him to struggle to survive.


    Before he could recover from the stun that his character initially received from the enemy tank, the opponent mage cast her ultimate to finish him off.


    The mage character of the Lee Gaming squad was like the goddess version instead of the regular viper-woman appearance. Because of her skin upgrade, her entire costume was changed and she was more noble looking than Clark''s mage.


    This mage had the ability to manipulate lightning and electricity. She can make superconductors out of her ability and electrocute her enemies. Her ultimate was a bolt of malevolent lightning. The moment the ultimate was pressed, the lightning was summoned and struck the enemy.


    Witnessing these effects from the goddess mage that performed a beautiful kill, the audience swiftly clapped their hands and applauded wildly.


    "That lightning strike is too good to see! There is golden light on its effect!"


    "They are equal to their score for having one kill and also one tower."


    "It''s fine, Clark. You can always respawn!" Claire comforted the man after seeing how he was badly affected by the loss. She was on the other side of the jungle when the man requested for her to back up. No matter how adept she was in using an assassin, it was impossible for her to save Clark.


    The same as Sofia''s tank and Joey''s support, they have not yet arrived at the location of Clark when his mage died.


    "The time you respawn, we will wipe them. Don''t be so sad by just a single death!" Sofia consoled the man again.


    "Yeah, you will kill that tank later on. You have to focus on the game. Don''t focus on your death," Stephen joined.


    At that moment, the four of them had totally become an advisor in the middle of the tournament. Such had never happened in online tournament before. Some players would even blame each others if they died.


    His teammates understood that there was no way for him to escape with the three opponents making him a target. But as for Clark, he had really failed the team by the kill.


    "Why are you so devastated. It is normal to die in the game! If your character doesn''t die then you are definitely cheating! HAHA" Joey playfully reminded him.


    "I just can''t accept how I did not see it coming! I was looking forward to getting into the middle lane. I already pressed the teleport. If I was a few seconds quicker on pressing the command, then,  this could have been avoided!" Clark reflected refusing to be consoled by his team members. He stared at his gray skin and the countdown for him to return to the game.


    Although his mage character was killed, Clark was still able to watch the progress in the bottom lane.


    Sofia emerged on the side of the river and her tank released a hook. The execution was perfect and the mage goddess of the Lee Gaming squad was dragged directly to the side of the Chronos squad.


    The moment the mage goddess arrived in front of CEO UNRIVALED, the character was petrified. The effect of not being able to do anything lasted only a couple of seconds but it was more than enough for Sofia to execute her skills properly.


    William was quick to rotate his thumb on the mobile screen and moved his tank to rescue the mage. However, before William could spin his character, Sofia deliberately dashed forward and knocked back all the opponents in front of her.


    Claire snatched the goddess mage and comboed her. The mage died in just a two-hit combo.


    "The assassin had been getting buffs from all sides of the jungle! Now she is very overpowered!" the young commentator spoke after seeing the overall stats of the players.


    After the death of their mage, William immediately step back and retreated. Some of his skills were in cool down and it was not cool for them to continue their clash.


    "No, don''t retreat! Move forward!" Brent ordered. His character was holding a gun and he had almost beaten the Chronos archer.


    Upon hearing this order, the Lee Gaming Squad members became hesitant to follow. They had recognized that the assassin use already got the full build and she was also full buffed.


    "Move, move!"


    "Young master Brent, let''s retreat. The Chronos assassin is already a beast! With my current HP, I might die!" William spoke. He emphasized the possibility of him dying in the clash.


    "Why? Our stats are all stronger than our opponents! We must push this before this round becomes a long game! Now is the perfect time to wipe them out!" Brent urged.


    "They have a healer, young master Brent. With their healer, we are at the very edge of advantage!" the fighter user stated.


    The group was torn into two sides, but in the end, they obeyed Brent and decided to push the game.


    Countless animation effects followed to appear on the large screen as two sides have gone into a full clash. Two tanks parried while trying to absorb the damages of their companions! Both of them got the highest defensive items and shields.


    "Quick, quick, quick!" Joey could not help but muttered to his character as he prayed for his skill for healing was still in cooldown.


    The notifications of deaths followed to appeared. William''s tank died! Then, it was followed by Sofia''s tank. The next was the fighter of then more notifications followed.


    It had become more and more chaotic as they pressed their skills like crazy on their phone

 Chapter 95 - Championship (13)

    Clark''s mage had finally respawned amidst the chaotic clash on the bottom lane. The background music playing in the battlefield became more thrilling and the audience almost did not blink their eyes from watching the large screen.


    "This clash could actually make everyone''s heart happy!"


    "Ahh, those exchange of skills from both squads and their combos! Although it looked chaotic but its very calculated! Even the support healing the ally while the tank enemy interrupting his heal! Just soo goood!!!"


    "This tournament will give us good profit. The player''s bet are also great numbers!"


    The satisfied look in the faces of everyone watching in the game was too overwhelming for the organizers. Their chitchat quickly grew louder and louder as they observed the people.


    While the audience were enjoying the game, the staffs of the tournament would sometimes took photos of the audience''s reaction for their documentation. So far, the reactions from the audience that they had taken had given them complete sense of fulfillment.


    "This tournament, we never expect this to blow like this!"


    "I was even skeptical to participate in organizing this tournament before because of the occasion. I''m glad that I have participated!"


    The staffs continued to compare their emotions towards the game while walking at the back area of the bleachers.


    However, as the clash continues, the audience reaction also changed and they began to trash talk.


    "Gosh! Their clash from both sides! Those animation effects! All are 100 percent perfect! But that archer, amp!"


    "Wow, only the Chronos squad assassin and marksman survived! That clash had really been an eye-opener. If only the marksman of the Chronos squad has more damage, their tank would have survived first!"


    "It is really the tank''s fault... Sigh!"


    "Yes, the damage dealer is too useless if there is not enough physical damage to their enemy. Look! There are three characters from their squad who died in less than a minute,"


    "Useless marksman. Why is this archer prioritizing his attack speed? Without any attack damage, his attack speed is useless! BOO!!! BOO!!!"


    "The Chronos squad must replaced their trash marksman user! I am much better player than him! Tsk!"


    One bashful comment started and the audience followed to throw more trash talks. They could not help but voiced out their disappointment to Stephen''s marksman after seeing that the archer survived the clash but the tank and support died.


    In the clash, the archer''s lack of damage was more obvious.


    At first, only the experts of the game and the veterans had noticed this flaw of his character. But now that the two squads had gone in the full clash, even the noobs and newbies could see the problem of the physical damage that the archer lacked.


    When the expert players noticed this flaw, they also saw the significance of the marksman''s choice. So, they did not react to it. They have understood thoroughly the advantage and sacrifice of the marksman. They even praised the archer for getting the attack speed.


    But now that the noob and newbie players had noticed the lack of physical damage from the archer, they bashed its user right away! They did not even hold back and were quick to call Stephen useless as they did not understand why the archer picked the attack speed rather than boost of physical attack damage.


    Those expert players who have heard the hateful remarks of the other audience became annoyed.


    "Shut up! You don''t know their game tactics! Why don''t you analyze the character build and the overall situation of the game before you shout your nonsense opinions!" one veteran scolded loudly after being feed up of the trash talks from the noob players. This veteran was just wearing a casual plus-size shirt and shorts as well as a slipper. He looked average and there was no sense of authority on his posture.


    When those group of noob audience heard him, they quickly examined the veteran from head to foot. The contempt in their eyes were evident and they scowled at him.


    "Ohh, this fatty likes to pretend to be an expert eh?"


    "Fatty, you shut up! We don''t need you to talk! Clearly, that archer is just useless. His damage could not even finish those creeps easily!"


    "Maybe this fatty cannot see the obvious? EH! Dare to scold us? What an ignorant player!"


    "How bold this man is! It''s better if you mind your business and exercise. Why are you scolding us?"


    Those who heard him looked at his face with disdain. They even go to another step and insulted the man''s physique.


    "Ohhh... those noobs, you cannot waste you time to them! Just watch the game," another expert consoled the man and advised him to just watch.


    "Yeah, shallow waters are indeed noisy!" the man that was called fatty clicked his tongue before he returned his attention to the large screen.


    At the same time, the commentator was also quick to acknowledge Clark''s mage as it appeared on the base...


    "Alright, folks! Both squads had lost their tanks and the Lee Gaming squad marksman is dealing with the Chronos squad assassin! Now, the mage of the Chronos squad is coming to the rescue! Let''s see of he can benefit with this clash!" the tone of the older commentator became mild but there was still a hint of enthusiasm in his voice.


    "Joined them Clark and you can surely wipe out our opponents," Joey stated while looking at the movement of their mage from his gray screen. Since his support also died, he could only wait for the respawn timer to end.


    "Yes! I''m back!" Clark murmured and moved his mobile phone closer to his face. His left thumb pressed harder on his screen as he urged his character to go to the bottom lane,


    Just as he was about to press the sprint button, Sofia''s voice told him to use teleport.


    "Focus Clark. Use your teleport and you can still get those remaining Lee Gaming squad members! When you got there, use your ultimate to the marksman opponent. Your cool down is already great." Sofia emphasized that his character had already attained a sufficient cool down reduction and he can use his skills


    Teleport!


    Clark was really shaken by his first death that he had forgotten the teleport command. He quickly realized that if his character sprinted forward, it might be too late for him to arrive at the location of the clash!


    "Yes, I will focus! I will focus!" Clark repeatedly muttered as if reminding himself to focus on the match.


    At this point, Claire''s assassin was still running as if she was playing hide and seek with Brent''s marksman. She utilized her ability to conceal and change locations whenever the marksman move near her character.


    Claire had activated her invisibility and then ran from one grass to another. With her movement, Brent had become more annoyed as he could not predict where the Chronos assassin was hiding.


    "This assassin is really troublesome," Brent gritted his teeth while attacking the grass.


    He delivered series of gunshots on the grass but it was not the area where Claire''s assassin was hiding. Hence, every time he clicked his skill to deliver the attack, the audience would laugh at his action.


    "Young master Brent, be careful! The assassin is about to ---" William tried to remind Brent not to be complacent. He knew that the assassin was just buying her time and was waiting for her ultimate to become available again.


    On the screen, a ranging fire suddenly appeared on the location of where Brent''s marksman was standing.


    It was a full unprecedented attack coming from a mage skill!


    Brent had been to focused on trying to get the Chronos assassin. He had not noticed that Clark''s mage was already near them!


    "F*ck! F*CK! The mage had respawn!" Brent angrily announced to inform all the remaining members to be cautious.


    And the mage does not need to get nearer to his target for his range was enough to hit the marksman.


    As the ranging fire arrived, it was too late for the marksman to move to a different location. His 55 percent HP dropped and became 46 percent after the magical damage penetrated to him.


    Just as Brent thought that he could escape after this initial attack, the chaotic winds flew to his locations and it was followed by the water stream!


    Three attacks altogether with a 9% magical damage per attack hit Brent''s marksman.


    He could only watch as his HP dropped again from 46 percent to 37. Then after the water stream almost drowned his marksman, he was left with 28 percent HP.


    Brent quickly retreated after receiving the three successive attacks. He went to the grass and attempted to use teleport for him to recover his HP to their base.


    However, to his surprise, when he took a step on the grass the opponent that he was chasing earlier show up in front of him!


    "OH DAMN! F****CCCCK!" Brent cursed loudly. In his mind, he had imagined right away the face of the assassin user smiling at his character wickedly.

 Chapter 96 - Championship (14)

    "HAHAHA that''s a piece of pure bad luck! This Lee Gaming squad marksman actually went straight to the location where the Chronos squad assassin was hiding!"


    "Uh-oh! That is really bad! But we cannot blame him. He was surprised by the arrival of the Chronos mage! I can hear even from here the loud cursing of the marksman user!"


    The two commentators simultaneously expressed their opinions after Brent cursed on the lounge area.


    "This is why, players, you must remember, do not get caught up easily by the chase! Look at the Lee Gaming squad marksman, he was too focus on catching the opponent. Now, he had forgotten that his enemy is not only the assassin!"


    "Right! Spectators who are players of this game watching out there... always remember that in this game, you have five enemies. So, your focus should be on the entire battlefield!"


    The two commentators continued to give their advice to the gamers who are watching the game as to highlighting the common mistake of all beginners in the game. Even pro players would exhibit such mistake.


    If there were great highlights and gameplays of the game, one of these would be the bad luck that Brent had just experienced. Though, it would be under the category of epic fails!


    The crowd had also joined the laughter of the laughter and some even teased Brent from their seats using the internet meme lines "it was at this moment that he knew... he f*cked up!"


    This line was repeated from the left side and the right side of the bleacher''s area while the audience was giggling and some had a burst of full-blown laughter.


    The hateful comments towards Stephen''s archer had tone down and the attention was now on Brent''s. Both players were marksman users. One was bashed because of the lack of physical damage while the other had become the cause of them to  burst in laughter because of his bad luck.


    "These two marksman users are really epic!" a teenager sitting on the middle part grinned from ear to ear.


    In most 5 v 5 games, the marksman role had mostly been quickly subjected to scrutiny with their gameplay as this character would normally be the carry.


    There are also several gaming strategies that emphasized the marksman role as the core of the team. Hence, the audience had been paying attention to the gameplay of this role.


    So far the two marksman users were not acting like a carry of their team. Their gameplay was not so good which made the audience burst into throwing them trash talks.


    "The two marksman users are epic fails! But I have never heard of the young master Lee to curse like that. He was always formal when he spoke!" a lady also emphasized the demeanor of Brent.


    "Well, this is the game. This would make anyone yell or trash talk!" another person defended.


    "That''s also true! Even I would cursed many times when I play!" the lady responded as she completely felt and related herself to the situation.


    As the timer continued to count in the match, Brent had not yet given up. He still had a glimmer of hope that he would be able to endure. He can still survive!


    "I had been chasing this assassin earlier, but now, I must take all measures to escape from her! There are still few seconds left before she will get her ultimate skills," Brent calculated.


    True to his guess, Claire was still waiting for six seconds for her assassin''s ultimate skill to be available.


    If only her ultimate was available, she would have intercepted Brent''s character right away. The man would surely not be able to move to the grass if she had struck him with her ultimate.


    "You got this! I can still escape!" Brent muttered from his seat as he tried to calm himself.


    He was already devastated by the situation but he was still looking for a miracle. The possibility of his survival lies on the Chronos assassin''s cool down.


    "Young master Brent, use the wall next to you! You can cover the call so you can make an escape route," William suggested as he observed the marksman''s movement on his gray screen.


    After listening to his ally, Brent nodded and cleared his throat. His right thumb raised slightly as it pressed the request for a backup signal on his mobile screen. At the same time, his left thumb moved on the left corner of his screen so he could retreat.


    The other surviving members were quick to respond but Brent''s movement was not going in their direction. He was going farther away which was making them hard to cover for him.


    "Where are you going? We can''t help you!" Brent''s sister asked him with a frown. She was confused that the gunner went to a different location.


    But this was not because Brent deliberately moved far away. His movement was intentional for the reason that Clark''s mage was also blocking his escape route. His teammates just did not make this considerations quickly.


    "Be careful, the Chronos mage is also moving near me," Brent announced.


    His gunner produced a rapid-firing towards Claire''s assassin. Bullets flew in the air but it was easily dodged by his target. It only take Claire to move swiftly on the side and the attack went passed on her.


    "TSK!" Brent gritted his teeth and sprinted away. He pressed the second skill of his character to dashed backward and he turned toward the wall to give him a more sustainable escape route.


    "Yes, that wall will give make the assassin hard to follow you," William stated. He was pleased that Brent had followed his suggestion.


    Brent also smiled after he executed the second skill and his character moved to the other end of the wall. However, his joy was cut off before it could even start.


    Claire''s assassin flickered! The assassin jumped on the wall to chase after him.


    "Oh no! This assassin had used flicker! You must move faster!" William narrated quicker that the commentator could say what happened on their match.


    Brent stood for a second and make an aim...


    The moment the assassin was still suspended in the air, Brent tried to aim at it. The movement of flicker was briefly stationary in the air and could easily give a clear projectile for him.


    After getting a good aim, another gunshot sounded and the bullets hit the assassin. But the damage was not enough to kill the target. And his mana had fully been consumed!


    "HAHA, Sof, your friend actually put up a good fight!" Claire quickly spoke his admiration to Sofia. She was aware now that Sofia and Brent knew each other and had been playing in the past. This made her share her observation with the man.


    "Oh! You are chasing him! Go, get him!" Sofia cheered at Claire. She also knew from the perspective of the gaming memory that the original owner of her body had, that a good opponent would make the match more enjoyable!


    "Hehehe, Yes! I will get him. But his gameplay is admirable. Instead of giving up after this low HP, he actually decided to fight! He even stop just to attack me instead of escaping now!" Claire stated. She was certain that the assassin was good as dead. But still seeing him trying his best to escape amused her greatly.


    "His HP is not that low. If you are too complacent, he could really escape from your grasp!" Sofia muttered while looking at the HP bar of Brent''s marksman.


    These remarks surprised Claire greatly. Sofia did not also think too much of what she said.


    "AHH, that is because you had been playing the role of a tank! So, you can tell that it''s not that low!" Claire mumbled. To her, it was considered low because the marksman had no solid endurance. This character also lacked armor and shield. So, the HP could easily be drained if she could catch her.


    "Mmmn, I used to teach him how to play. The teacher must have been good in imparting her knowledge for her student to have achieved this feat!" Sofia joked while observing the overall movements of the survivors in her map.


    As Brent made a way to avoid Claire''s assassin, Clark also moved his character to chase after the Lee Gaming Squad marksman.


    Claire''s assassin was on the other side while Clark''s mage is trying to corner the gunner. Their movements were swift and before the gunner could run farther, Claire''s assassin arrived and snatched him out on the ground.


    With the insane physical damage of the assassin, Brent''s mobile phone had instantly turned gray. His gunner died and the respawn timer followed to display.


    The second kill of the Chronos squad goes to Claire once more with the support of Clark''s mage. Their KDA stats were immediately updated on the upper right side of their mobile screen.


    The two quickly turned around and pursue the other surviving players of their opponent''s squad.


    "That physical damage from the assassin is too big! And she is already full build! This would turn the situation to the Lee Gaming squad''s disadvantage!" the older commentator excitedly announced.

 Chapter 97 - Championship (15)

    "That''s 2800+ worth of physical damage! Ahh! Absolutely one of the highest damage I have ever seen in my entire life!" the younger commentator exclaimed in excitement as his eyes twinkled looking at the screen.


    The man slightly seemed dazed after watching the Chronos assassin displayed its ultimate upon Brent''s marksman.


    He dramatically shook his head few times just to clear his thoughts. It was an overwhelming show of damage that he had inwardly suspected if his eyes had really seen the real numbers.


    Even the audience were all stunned and became speechless after seeing the almost 3000 physical damage from the assassin.


    After some time, they started to murmur all their opinions on the scene.


    "That''s just a broken assassin right there!"


    "Is it a cheat? How did she acquire that kind of damage?"


    "Is it really impossible to reach that damage? Wow!"


    To say, ultimate skill stored a great percentage of damage among all other skills of a character but most of the digits would only be around 1500+ and mostly it would reach 2000+.


    It''s not because players that were adept tp the assassin role could reach higher than it but because, usually, the match would already be decided when this amount of damage appears.


    So, whether in a pro tournament or regular match, it is not usual to see what Claire''s assassin''s damage produced.


    "I''ve seen it too! That''s extremely overpowered!" the older commentator confirmed.


    "Good thing you have confirmed because for a while I thought I was just hallucinating!" the younger commentator quickly replied.


    Like every other virtual game, the character''s damage was displayed on the screen but it was too rare for the spectators to talk about the actual digit of damage because most of the numbers shown were too common to see. It was not worth mentioning and does not really catch much attention. But, for Claire''s assassin dealing the high physical damage, the digits were more than worthy to be mentioned.


    "The items in the inventory of this assassin are all killer blades! This assassin is fully buffed too! No wonder, she had pulled out such a high number of damage! This is so hard to be countered!" the older commentator quickly pointed out the reason why the physical damage of Claire''s character was abnormally high.


    Killer blades were items that give extra true damage in every skill. The extra damage would be added on a percentage scale. Hence, the entire damage would soar high once the extra damage would be triggered by the character. And the easiest way to trigger it was to use the ultimate.


    "Man, that ultimate is enough to singlehandedly kill errr, maybe three opponents in one go! Yes, I think with this damage, the assassin can easily assassinate a mage, marksman, and full support!" the younger commentator chirped his guess as he looked towards the movement of the players.


    On the map, Clarks'' mage was the first to face the other two surviving enemies. After it was positioned to reach the range of the enemy, he quickly clicked his skills button without even thinking of any solid combo attack.


    Clark did not need to hold back for his cool down reduction could supply him almost unlimited skills. He easily cast his second skill and stunned both two opponents.


    As the movement of the two players from the Lee Gaming Squad was fully suspended by the mage''s second skill, Claire easily caught up and delivered her assassin''s passive skill effect, giving them a chain stun.


    The two opponents were immobilized and silenced on the spot.


    This was the same strategy that they did to Clark''s mage earlier that caused its death.


    Seeing the two enemies unable to move, Clark grinned from ear to ear. He felt very contented and his anxiety had fully vanished.


    "I have no more ultimate, Clark. I''m sure yours are already available?" Claire mentioned reminding Clark that she had utilized her ultimate earlier with the marksman opponent.


    This may sound not important but it was necessary for Claire to remind the man as he may assume that the assassin can follow up few attacks. It was no longer possible. The assassin''s damage was high and so was the cool down of the skill. Claire needed to wait for another minute for his ultimate to be ready.


    Clark had not yet perfected his coordination with them. He was still developing his skills in quick decision-making, thus, the only solution for this gap is for his teammates to tell him what would be the most ideal thing he had to do.


    "Yes, yes! I''ll finish them!" Clark murmured and then produce a bright smile on his face. Finally, he could finish the opponent that cornered him earlier!


    Not long after, Clark''s ultimate fell down upon them and hit perfectly at the two opponents. With its large area of effect, even if the two wanted to escape after the stunning effect cool down, they were still covered by Clark''s attack killing them both.


    "Good, good!" Claire smiled on her screen as she praised Clark''s double kill.


    Their teamwork resulted in the entire Lee Gaming Squad being wiped out. Such opportunity to push for two towers had been presented to them and they quickly proceed to move towards the initial tower defense of their opponent.


    "That''s a smooth kill from the mage," the older commentator nodded his head repeatedly.


    "A smooth revenge kill? He was cornered earlier," the younger commentator also brought up the earlier situation of Clark.


    The duo quickly attacked the tower and destroyed it. Another wave of creeps spawned to block them from attacking the next tower but it did not do much. They easily cleared the opponent''s creeps and destroyed the second tower.


    After minutes had passed all of the players had respawned and they became more serious. It was already considered a late-game and they have reached the maximum level of their characters.


    The Lee Gaming squad understood the danger of the situation for their group, hence, all of them remained near the base. They had to defend otherwise, it would be over.


    Series of retreat signals from their teammates were also conveyed on their notification panel.


    "Young master Brent, do you have other plans?" William asked while maintaining his focus on the mobile screen.


    "We can split push later. Let''s clear the creeps and then you and me.... let''s take their top lane. Then, the three can defend in case the Chronos squad would attack our base. No matter what, protect this final defense tower or they would be able to summon the mega creeps," Brent swiftly spoke all his plans to his teammates.


    The four players instantly understood the positions they would be taking. Now, all they need to do was to follow the instructions.


    The Chronos squad performed a grand rally on the bottom lane. This time, their faces were all serious.


    Sofia''s tank was leading the group in the front line. CEO UNRIVALED was situated in the middle walking mightily with its heavy armor. This character was full tank build.


    "Push! Once I enter the tower, be sure to use all your damage and don''t hold back," Sofia stated. Because her character was already full build, she decided to play aggressively against the Lee Gaming squad.


    With Sofia''s order, the four other members quickly knew that they would be diving into the opponent''s tower if it would be necessary. On top of it, they had to deal with all the damage they could produce.


    The Chronos marksman, Dangerous Predator, was sprinting on the right side of CEO UNRIVALED. Stephen had been opening his item shop and reading the descriptions from time to time. Then he easily sold some of his items and replaced them with defensive items. He replaced two items with armor and a shield.


    In this way, he would be able to sustain some of the damages from the Lee Gaming squad.


    At the back were Joey''s support - Lethal Prey and Clark''s character - Amateur Mage. These two would be the primary characters that would be supporting the entire squad.


    "Should I get a shield?" Joey suddenly asked. His role was a healer and he knew that even if he could supply HP for his teammates, his own defense was actually very weak.


    "No need! Just focus on healing us if ur HP would become critical. Follow my HP bar, I''ll make sure that no one from the Lee Gaming squad would be able to reach your side," Sofia answered confidently.


    Upon hearing this assurance from Sofia, Joey and Clark looked at each other and then at Sofia''s figure sitting on her side in a bit. They really left their attention on their screen as they were moved by what she just said.


    Sofia poured all her attention to her mobile phone but the burning gaze of her two teammates was too intense.


    "You better focus on your characters and gameplay! Don''t let your eyes stray away from the battlefield!" she sternly stated and the two members quickly returned their attention to the game.

 Chapter 98 - Championship (16)

    With the planned formation, the four players of the Chronos squad continued to march forward in the bottom lane until they arrived on the final defense tower of the Lee Gaming squad.


    Clark was the first to initiate the attack. The creeps from the opponent''s side who were advancing towards them were quickly knocked up as his mage summoned the wind. Few of the creeps survived his attack but he also made a follow-up strike by casting the fire towards his target. The poor small soldiers were burnt into a crisp before they transformed into gold earnings to Clark''s mage.


    The boy had quickly gained a good mood. He started to enjoy the game without anything in mind other than his performance inside the battlefield.


    He did not need to wait for Sofia''s tank to attack as his role was capable of wide-range attack and his cooldown reduction was very high. Just like Sofia had instructed him before, this low cool-down effect for his skills was very convenient for him.


    Some mage users may not agree to this type of build but with Clark''s level of gameplay, it was the most effective.


    Not long after, the Chronos squad quickly invaded the territory of the Lee Gaming squad.


    Attack!


    "Don''t hold back!" Sofia ordered and her character dashed forward.


    As soon as their creeps entered the zone inside the final defense tower, Sofia''s tank instantly hacked the tower. Stephen''s marksman was maintaining a close distance beside her, finding a good position to strike.


    The HP bar of the tower gradually decreased but they have not managed to fully destroy this defense. A glint of lightning followed to travel from above and descended towards their area!


    On the other side, the Lee Gaming squad started to block the invaders, Their mage quickly retaliated by summoning various lightning and barricading their tower.


    "Young master Brent, I''ll go around and then sneak behind their back. Then, I will push all of them near us! This time all of them will be cornered! It''s up to you to deal damage next! Guys, pay attention once I use my ultimate and forced them to go towards our innermost part of the tower," William spoke his own plan. His tone did not sound as if he was proposing the idea. Rather, there was a determination in his voice. And before anyone could react, the tank ventured out from their initial position.


    "Be careful!" Brent mumbled. He had not yet responded nor agreed to William but his character already moved towards the jungle area and then jumped behind the Chronos mage. He could only take a quick look at the tank''s movement before he positioned his gunner and aimed at the four invaders of their tower.


    It was a complete change of plan for their squad but seeing that William already made his way to do what he had exactly told them, all his teammates swiftly moved to the corner side. Adjustments were so easy to make since they were just almost moving few feet away from one another.


    Brent released a faint sigh and followed William''s plan. He was aware that the boy had a tendency to be reckless and his character may easily become the food of their opponents. But he still prayed that they would be able to execute the plan effectively.


    William timed himself before he pressed hit ultimate to aim for the supposed destination of his tank. "In three, two, one!"


    He had been glancing on the entire map and could not locate the Chronos assassin.


    "Be quick! Please don''t die! It would be so hard if you die!" William heard his ally mage worriedly requested him to avoid death. This plan was too risky for his tank to make an attack outside their territory.


    William also acknowledged this possibility. But to him, the higher the risk the more ecstatic it would be once he conquered and finish off his enemies.


    "Ohh yeah! I can handle this!" William stated. He had not yet released his ultimate skill and still waiting for the perfect timing to attack.


    "Well, you can knock them all and pushed them forward, the risk is worth taking," Brent nodded and finally supported the tank. The boy may be rash but it did not mean that he was not making any considerations.


    "I think this can work for us also. We have to proactively fight in their invasion instead of doing a full defense," the fighter user stated.


    "Don''t ever think of following the tank! William can go ahead and execute his plan, but you... you stay!" Brent spoke sternly. Even if their tank user was a daredevil, there was one thing that he was confident about William. His fingers were fast. He can perform multiple executions of skills even in crucial situations.


    "I will knock them back! Especially their low-damaged marksman. That''s nothing! The only real deal opponent right now is the assassin!" William agreed and emphasized who they should be warry.


    Where was indeed the Chronos assassin?


    The perspective on the large screen slowly traveled towards the river until it revealed the location of the assassin. Chronos Almighty Killer was attacking solo the giant mutant that had been respawned a couple of minutes ago!


    And with the character''s great amount of physical damage, she made it easy to slash down the HP of the giant NPC!


    "The assassin may be farming in their jungle? There are still jungle monsters in their area," the mage user suggested. All they could do was take a guess.


    "No, that assassin is full build. There is one area in the map that she could possibly be located," Brent stated.


    "Where? Is she in the giant mutant... ugh! Not again!" their assassin also groaned feeling a great headache after mentioning the giant mutant.


    "Yes, I have a hunch that she is attacking the giant mutant. But, let''s worry about that later. Focus on our plan!" Brent announced.


    Gamers like them who had a sufficient grasp of the map and certain gameplays had developed an instinct for particular situations.


    Although the Chronos opponents were oblivious of the actual location where the assassin went to they had also a gut feeling that the assassin was attacking the giant mutant.


    Gaming instinct was something that made makes a player moved to another level of understanding in the game. And just like in the real-life, these instincts were mostly accurate.


    "Three, two, one!" William muttered again. This time, he aimed for the ground where the Chronos marksman was standing.


    Right after he counted, his character leaped on where he stood towards the location he had chosen.


    A signal appeared several times hinting his allies to attack!


    The moment this Lee Gaming squad landed its foot on the ground, all the opponents knocked on the air for a second. This skill stunned all the Chronos squad members including Sofia. And before the team could recover from the stun effect, William''s tank immediately spun its body in a rapid movement like a tornado sweeping them towards their base.


    Sofia was successfully pushed forward but, with her stats, her HP was not yet affected. Joey quickly cast a full heal to everyone. Thus, they managed to survive with the sneak attack of William''s tank.


    "I am impressed!" Sofia complimented. Knowing Brent''s style, she expected that no one would sneak attack on the side of the Lee Gaming squad. It meant that she had predicted the plan of Brent. But, she had not anticipated the plan of William!


    Despite being push forward and become the subject of the attack, Sofia did not panic. She calmly looked at her character as it continued to sustain the attack from the opponent''s side.


    "Hehe," a faint giggle of amusement escaped from her lips and then her hand pressed the first skill button on her mobile screen.


    The longer she pressed the first skill, the hook also aimed at the targets. Her character became motionless for a while but her hand had already trying to select the target.


    "The CEO UNRIVALED is not moving! Did she became AFK?" the mage user of the Lee Gaming squad questioned. It was too abnormal to stay stagnant while being attacked thus, she could not help but thought that Sofia was abandoning the game.


    "AFK? I don''t think so! Everyone, be careful! This tank user may be calculating. Try to move your characters from side to side tho avoid her counter attack!" Brent stated. There was no way Sofia would leave the game just because her character was motionless.


    After Brent expressed her advice to the team, Sofia also released the button that she had been pressing.


    The mage who thought that she abandoned the game was quickly dragged away from her ally side after the hook pulled her.


    "Ohhh no! Not again!" the mage user kicked the air below the chair after CEO UNRIVALED got her.


    William who had seen this counterattack, stared in disbelief.


    His character was still pushing the opponent but this plan may just be the cause of why the Chronos tank was able to snatch their mage!


    He obviously sent an enemy to their territory in hope that the enemy would be destroyed.


    But looking at their situation now, it would seem that the enemy sent to be killed by his allies would be the same enemy that would destroy them instead!

 Chapter 99 - Championship (17)

    Under normal circumstances, the Chronos squad should have tried to escape and fled as far as they could from the Lee Gaming squad territory. Their situation was already very dangerous if they choose to stay on their formation since all their characters were subjected to the various attacks of their opponents.


    But, since Sofia had told her members that they will force their way, nobody retreated. They just watched as the HP of their characters decreased slowly once they were hit. They tried to dodge some attacks but because the enemies were just few feet away from them, some skills had greatly decreased their HP.


    All of them may constantly moved from one location to another but they were able to lock the tower as their target.


    "They are not retreating!? WHY?!" William became dumbfounded. He assumed that with his bold sneak attack, the formation of the Chronos squad would be disabled and that the team would back away from advancing them.


    "Our opponents are too hard to predict! I also thought that this strategy would work for us. However, it did not eliminate even one of the members from the Chronos squad!" Brent''s sister sighed in frustration.


    "I think they don''t plan to retreat? Look, from the start, they choose to pick the support instead of fighter. That''s already an indication that they would do rally!" the assassin user of the Lee Gaming Squad stated, She was trying to find the right angle for her to attack, but her movement was very limited.


    "Are these players insane? What are they thinking of not retreating?" William lamented. He was proud of himself for being the risk-taker among all the members of the Lee Gaming squad but it turned out,  their opponents that he was attacking were more than him! The Chronos squad players were not only risk-takers but also death seekers!


    "Back off! Back off!" William chanted while his character was still attacking the group.


    In his mind, if the Chronos squad players would not retreat, could the characters in front of him sustain the damage that they are inflicting? Surely, they were bound to be wiped out! or so he thought?


    The audience on the bleachers had almost stopped breathing after seeing how the Chronos squad players were targeted by the endless attacks from the Lee Gaming squad.


    Their HP had constant fluctuation. Sometimes it would decrease to 40 percent, then to 30 percent. But then, their healer would also help them supply some HP and they would easily gain the HP back to almost 50 percent.


    "This is the perfect display of coordination from the Chronos squad. Look! Their support user had been very good at timing his heal and also calculating the cool down of his skills! The entire team managed to sustain despite the barraged of attacks from the Lee Gaming squad!" the older commentator quickly emphasized.


    He complimented the Chronos healer but in reality, on the player''s lounge, it was Sofia who was directing Joey to heal. The man would just wait for the instruction.


    "Wait for 20 seconds then, heal!" Sofia said while blocking almost all the attacks that were coming towards them.


    Joey would then check the timer and immediately cast a heal after it reached the time that Sofia said to him.


    "This is ridiculous! How can they sustain our attacks when our tower is also attacking? The Chronos squad might be using some defensive cheat?" William finally broke some large beads of sweat on his forehead.


    "It''s not some cheat code. It''s their coordination and their healer''s expertise! The timing is perfect. It coordinated to the cooldown of their skills relative to the time of the healer''s cool down!" Brent stated.


    "AHH! This is so troublesome! I thought I could wipe them out!" William lamented.


    "Find a way to move back near the base now!" Brent immediately ordered William to return to their side. He had realized why none of their enemies moving away from their tower.


    "My ultimate is not yet done! I can maximize my damage and crowd control effect," William responded unwillingly to stop his character from spinning forward.


    "Trust me. Just go back here! I am familiar with how their tank play. Once they would go all in aggressively, they would not back down. They planned to advance to our base!" Brent warned the tank user.


    "Alright! This is the turning point of the game. Those who have placed their bet, please be sure which squad name you have written!" the older commentator reminded all the participants of the betting pool.


    The reminder was requested by their organizers to be announced for the online betting was about to close. And they could not believe that there are almost a million people who placed their bet with the Chronos squad!


    After a few seconds, the online betting pool had raised higher and higher as if some of the gamers were making a last-minute gamble. Those who had placed their bet to the Chronos squad had reached a million and counting.


    "Tsk! What kind of opponent did we get? Are they even newbies?" Even if he was unwilling to follow Brent''s command, William had no choice. He also realized that the Chronos squad had managed to sustain the attack from him and the tower defensive attacks.


    He could not help but questioned if the Chronos players were newbies, just like how they had investigated before the tournament started.


    "Of course, their squad is new! They are newbies. But, these players may have experience in other 5 v 5 games. I suspect they play in pc before? I only see this kind of strategy that they use now in the pc games!" the fighter user emphasized.


    Without hesitation, the Lee Gaming tank pounced his way to interrupt Sofia''s stunned after effect of her hook and then leaped towards their base.


    "They are not newbies in combat games. But they are new in this game. So, their combat style strategy is similar to those that you can see in the PVP area of MMORPG games," Brent mumbled.


    "Then, in that case..." William trailed and realized that he was lost of words. He could feel that his fingers had become sore for pushing too much of his skills in his mobile screen.


    "Don''t talk anymore! They had almost destroyed our tower!" the mage user who managed to survive because of William''s help reminded them of the crucial situation they are in.


    "Okay! All of you, don''t hold back your attacks! Defend the tower!" Brent stated and all of them threw every skill that is available on their screen.


    The nimble movements of the Lee Gaming members'' hands as well as the soft sound of the screen when tap was the testament that the group had finally become serious.


    At first, they were acting cool about the situation. However, when they realized that their opponents were determined to push the bottom lane, they needed to perform seriously. They now felt threatened by the determination that the Chronos squad had displayed in front of them.


    William exhaled loudly from his seat and adjusted his sitting position.


    "These Chronos squad, why are they rushing now? Earlier, they did not attack us directly! But now, they are stubbornly advancing to us!"


    Just as this tank user complained the notification that they had anticipated had finally shown up on their screen finally appeared.


    Almighty Killer killed the Giant Mutant!


    All the expressions of the Lee Gaming squad players turned sour.


    "Here is another opponent! Darn! The assassin was really on the mutant area!" William groaned! The other members followed his expression. Their shoulder slumped and they leaned on their seats.


    Seeing such notification, the situation on their side had become worse. They felt that they were facing multiple bosses of some MMORPG game in one quest. One boss was the giant mutant. The other boss was the Chronos assassin. Then there is this tank and other members who were very persistent!


    "This game was by far the only game where our movements become very limited! Unexpectedly, the Chronos squad had managed to restrict our characters here! Your friend is really a good player, young master Brent," William expressed.


    "Yeah! I would not be here today if she had not taught me how to properly play the game. All the principles and tactics that I use in the game, I have learned from Sofia. This is probably why they are no longer retreating. I still hope that a day would come that I will impress her," Brent twisted his head and shoulder to relax his muscle.


    "My ultimate should be available before the giant mutant arrived our game. So, let''s try to push away our opponents!" William said but it was already too late. Their tower was already destroyed by their opponent!


    "We will rely on you to initiate the attack later, William!" Brent stated as he was looking for another position to get a good projectile.


    "Yes, I will signal you all! Defend our base!" William muttered and then glanced at the cool down of his skills.


    "We can still overturn this game. As long as we managed to defend and wiped out our enemy!" Brent said while letting his character shot bullets to the opponents.

 Chapter 100 - Championship (18)

    "We can overturn this with full defense! As long as our base will not be destroyed yet. We can do this!" the assassin user of Lee Gaming squad declared.


    "They say, a good defense is the best offense! Let''s do that! We can do an epic comeback!" William muttered encouraging all his companions to maintain their enthusiasm.


    The moment the giant mutant was summoned, the Lee Gaming squad players also turned silent. All of them were looking at the map and painstakingly watched at the giant mutant as it marched towards their territory.


    The group tried to relax their fingers for the next clash that would happen in no time.


    On the large screen, the viewer''s perspective was constantly changing from the base of the Lee Gaming squad to the giant NPC. Then it showed Claire''s assassin that was also moving side by side with the mutant as it left out from the Chronos base. Her movement was swift as if the character was gliding in the air.


    But, this assassin did not follow the path where the NPC had taken. Instead, she moved towards the jungle then passed to the river until she reached the top lane.


    With this action, everyone who was watching the game instantly realized that the Chronos squad would be doing a split push!


    It was a common technique to divide the attention of their enemies. One that would be very suitable for their situation as they had already gained the upper hand.


    "Wow, the assassin will solo the top!"


    "Well, her stats are very good. Even if she will solo, her opponents would not be able to easily kill her!"


    "I wish I can play like this assassin gameplay!"


    The audience immediately voiced out their stands. Another discussion broke out but some of them also reprimanded them to stop.


    "Shhh, let us focus on watching the match!"


    "Please, silent for a while!"


    "Ughh! Quiet please!"


    In the end, the bleachers became silent and all the audience intently focused their attention on the large screen. It was as if these people were in a theater and they have reached the most suspense part of the movie!


    "The Chronos squad will be pushing two lanes, leaving the middle lane untouched. Perhaps, it was because the squad did not see the point in attacking the middle lane anymore for there were still three towers in the area. Destroying the three towers would give their enemies a chance to gain more time to extend the game!" the older voice of the older commentator echoed across the ears of the silent audience.


    "Ohh! This is now the most challenging part for the Lee Gaming squad. This situation is so hard to defend! Will this be the last struggle that they will face before we will witness the victory?" the younger commentator announced with a hint of worry in his tone. He somehow sympathized with the Lee Gaming squad. If this squad would be defeated, their preparation and the number of resources that they had used, for the battle would be wasted.


    "That''s right! We can''t tell if they can manage to defend their base but we can see that it would be very hard. They need to deal with the giant mutant and the four enemies in the bottom lane..." the older commentator made a dramatic pause as he tilted his head hinting that he was trying to think deeply.


    "And then the assassin is also going towards the top lane. Attacks from both sides will make the Lee Gaming squad''s defense weak!" the older commentator continued to narrate.


    At first, he assumed that the Chronos squad would just go all their way into the bottom lane. But, after seeing the assassin moving away and went to the top lane, he had realized the group was indeed adept at the game. They were not just following the luck but they also have their own strategy to push their enemies to the corner.


    After a minute of marching, the giant NPC finally arrived on the side of Sofia.


    ATTACK!


    Another attack signal flashed upon the mobile screen of all Chronos squad members. The signal came from their tank, CEO UNRIVALED.


    Then, a realization hit all the members of the Lee Gaming Squad. It was something that they have not thoroughly thought about. Their enemy could use a hook and snatched them if they were not too careful with their distance. Not only they needed to defend their base, but they also had to pay attention not to step within the range of CEO UNRIVALED!


    "Tsk! Tsk! Tsk!" William clicked his tongue non-stop after he made this new realization.


    "Let''s go! Do your best, guys! Move backward!" he added then his tank jumped towards the area of the giant mutant.


    The gunner followed and produced five bullets to hit the NPC. Then, the mage summoned lightning to help deal damage. On the top lane, their assassin and fighter were facing Claire''s assassin.


    At the same time, the attacks of the Chronos squad blasted their area. Clark''s mage summoned fire and wind easily to cut the movement of their enemy.


    The moment Clark successfully hit and stunned the mage of the Lee Gaming squad, Sofia''s hook followed to grab her. The mage had been really their target for the magical damage from her lightning was too troublesome to deal.


    This time, the mage was completely immobilized. Seeing the scene of the character being grabbed away from her allies, the younger commentator could not help but wince. He had seen the mage was also hooked earlier but she managed to escape. However, it would seem that she could no longer escape this adversity!


    "Oww! Oww! Oww! That''s a very good combo from the Chronos mage and the tank!" the older commentator voiced out what his companion was thinking.


    Within just a couple of seconds, the Lee Gaming squad mage died in a very pitiful manner. The most ironic thing about her death was that the one who got the last hit was the Chronos marksman. The only character that they had been looking down for was its low damage stats!


    "One down from the Lee Gaming squad. It is now 5 vs 4! The Chronos squad continued to push their way but the defense of the Lee Gaming squad was still tight despite their situation!" the older commentator continued to narrate after noticing that the giant mutant was not yet attacking the base of the Lee Gaming squad. This giant NPC was being blocked by Brent''s marksman.


    "The tank from the Lee Gaming squad once again activated its ultimate! But this time, he is pushing away his enemies!" the younger commentator supplied.


    "Oh no! The top lane!" one of the audience shrieked then it was followed by the sound of the speaker announcing for the double kill!


    Since the perspective was focused on the giant NPC, they had not seen the full action of what had happened on the top lane. The only thing that the audience saw was that the two other Lee Gaming squad members died tragically under the hand of Claire''s assassin!


    "Please, replay!" an audience started and before the other people could shout to demand a replay, the large screen already showed another window revealing what had happened on the top lane...


    ...It was a 2 vs 1.


    The Chronos assassin player vs the Lee Gaming squad fighter player and assassin player.


    The first one to initiate the clash was the fighter executing its ultimate towards Claire''s assassin. She was kicked by the Lee Gaming squad fighter and sent flying on the air. In the process, her character was suspended in the air and the physical damage from the kick almost took down 75 percent of her HP.


    Before Claire''s assassin could retaliate, the Lee Gaming squad assassin also followed to silence her, creating an effect that would not allow her to use her skills for a few milliseconds...


    Claire''s assassin was completely immobilized under the teamwork of the two opponents. The time was quick but Claire utilized this to open her inventory and sell two of her items. Then, she clicked the shop and bought two red blades.


    This trading of items was done in just a blink of an eye.


    And the moment all the stun effects wore off from her character, the assassin''s blades flew in the air and she leaped sideward to snatch the fighter on the side.


    Her HP was low but she did not seem to back down even if there were two enemies in front of her.


    "The courage of this assassin user is admirable! She did not retreat? The Chronos squad players are really gambling their HP! If I were the one using the assassin, I would have retreated!" someone sitting on the front side of the bleachers voiced out his admiration after seeing Claire''s movement.


    In that simple action, her HP gradually recovered. One thing that made all the audience dropped their jaw.


    "What an insane life steal!" all the audience roared together with their hands clapping at the sight of Sofia''s HP recovery. Joy were evident in their eyes as if what they had just seen in the replay was worthy to be celebrated!

 Chapter 101 - Championship (19)

    The moment Claire''s assassin started to recover her HP, the opponent''s life also began to deteriorate.


    It could be seen as the Lee Gaming squad fighter''s full HP was slowly transferred to the assassin.


    "Seeing this HP bar is so enjoyable! No offense to the fighter of the Lee Gaming squad. She is also a great player. But because I am mostly an assassin user it felt great to see this high life steal," the younger commentator spoke while his voice become so soft.


    "It''s not easy to play an assassin in the game," the older commentator casually commented.


    "Yes! I know how hard it is to play this assassin role. I''ll have to admit that this kind of life steal is very satisfying to see!" the younger commentator chirped as his eyes glistened. For some reason, this scene brought some tears to the side of his eyes.


    "Wow, you are actually on a verge of tears. Tears of joy!? You are really crying?" the older commentator playfully said after noticing that his companion was wiping the side of his eye.


    "AHAHA, you have caught me there! It''s too good to see this scene!" the younger commentator responded. He did not deny his tears for he was really moved by what he saw. For him, it was normal if he become emotional.


    The assassin may be terrifying in the game, but for the assassin user to reach this level of dominance, the player using this character must jungle non-stop and her rotation should be balanced. Everything must be done in the quickest possible way to increase EXP and Gold.


    Assassin players must increase their level above all the other players in the early game.


    If the assassin failed to grow earlier than the others, the entire squad would also be placed in a problematic situation.


    Life steal was the ability that can be activated using an item. In the game, there are several items that all characters can choose for them to use. There were physical items, magical items, and defensive items. Every role had a corresponding life steal item.


    In the case of Claire, the red blades she had just purchased earlier when her character was still immobilized allowed her to gain this ability. It was a physical item with the highest life steal.


    And since she purchased two of the said items, the effect of her life steal was also multiplied.


    She may have been suppressed earlier on, but the two opponents were easily outplayed by the assassin.


    The Lee Gaming squad fighter did not have a chance to step its foot on the ground after she was snatched in the air. She was slain in an instant.


    Claire''s damage and life steal were both equally high.


    In theory, this kind of character stats was too hard to achieve by a player. To accomplish this, they needed a tremendous amount of gold to buy three items that would give extra true damage. The said item was the most expensive among all items in the game. Then, another two items of the highest life steal. And this life steal item cost higher than normal blades too.


    "Woah! No defensive items! All are for physical attack and life steal! I have to use this build next time I''ll play."


    "I will try to use these items in my next game too. Hope I can be terrifying like this Almighty Killer assassin!"


    "This assassin is the perfect core! Her fingers are fast, and she easily changed her items! That quick reaction and solution to her earlier trouble were too admirable!"


    No player has ever practiced this kind of build in the game ever since. But some players had already thought of this. Yet, they were not able to deploy the kind of build effectively. They thought that it was impossible to play efficiently using such items.


    But now that Claire had displayed how terrifying these blades were, everyone immediately felt inspired to use the build.


    "So, this kind of build needs to have a quick hand speed. And this can only be applied during combat!" one tourist who was wearing a pro player jacket looked very contented.


    "Luckily, we joined the hype and bought the ticket of this tournament!" his companion nudged his elbow slightly.


    Both of them had also flown from their district to see the tournament. It was a random decision by the two to buy the ticket and they had no expectations of what would be the tournament looked like. Now, they felt extremely satisfied.


    The agility of the assassin was also on the top level making her finished off the two in just less than a minute.


    Double Kill.


    "Good, good!" the rest of the Chronos players instantly praised Claire when her kills were displayed on their screen.


    "I''m full build and fully buffed! I can kill anyone who will dare to block my way," Claire stated with a grin on her face. Her words may sound arrogant but anyone who could hear it would still agree with her.


    "Yes, you can!" Sofia chuckled.


    On the side of the Lee Gaming squad, Brent raised his eyebrow after seeing that two of his companions had died in the hands of Claire. The assassin also killed him earlier, thus, he did not blame the two.


    "Sorry, the assassin''s life steal is too high!" the fighter user mumbled. Her face turned red in embarrassment for she expected that she would be able to kill the Chronos assassin with the help of their assassin too.


    "I did not expect that the Chronos assassin would change her items. There was almost no time for her to go and shop for a different item. But I guess, she is really good!" the Lee Gaming assassin user followed.


    "It''s my fault! I attacked the assassin first... thinking that I could kill her. I should have just stayed away and continue to defend the tower in the top lane," the fighter user admitted.


    Their squad had already planned to give their all to defend their base. But now, three of their members had been slain.


    The remaining members could only laugh at their situation.


    Brent''s marksman take over the defense on the side of the top lane and tried his best to stop the Chronos assassin. Since he can attack in range fight, and Claire''s assassin needed close combat, Brent could still put up a fight.


    However, since William''s tank was dealing with both the other four Chronos squad members and also the giant mutant, their focus on defending both two lanes was very unstable.


    "I have to return to our spawn area to recover my HP!" William announced after his tank character dealt heavy blows. Without waiting for the response of Brent, he quickly moved towards their base.


    Just as he thought that he could recover his HP after arriving in the spawn area, his mobile screen turned gray!


    "What the f*ck! F*CK THIS TANK!" William cursed loudly. The subject of his curse was Sofia''s CEO UNRIVALED.


    It had been his habit to rotate his character whenever he would recover his HP on the spawned area. But the moment his character rotated, the hook from Sofia''s tank arrived on where he was standing and his character was snatched out. NO, in fact, because of his rotation, Sofia had seen the opportunity to attack him!


    William''s tank had not even gotten a 5 percent recovery for his HP when his character was dragged towards the opponent area!


    Then, his character died. His anger also exploded!


    Brent''s gunner who was the only survivor tried his best to attack but it was not enough.


    The giant NPC started attacking their base and all Chronos players followed. They ignored the attack from the gunner and soon after, the result was quickly announced!


    Sofia smiled while looking at the beautiful words on her mobile screen...


    VICTORY!


    Her companions were already jumping out from their seats, yelling in happiness and joy!


    On the side of the Lee Gaming squad, they do not look so defeated also. They even clapped their hands and congratulated the Chronos squad.


    Brent was the first to leave his seat and walked towards the opposite lounge where the Chronos squad was occupying.


    "Good game!" He said while grinning.


    Upon seeing that Brent had joined them, the members suppressed their laughter and stood respectfully.


    "Thank you, young master Brent!" Clark was the first to speak.


    "Well Played!" Sofia looked up and stood from her seat. She then extended her hand and offered the man a handshake. Soon, the two squads exchanges handshakes politely.


    "And this is the end of our tournament! Good Game Well Played to both squads! Better luck next time to those who were defeated," the older commentator officially announced the end of the game.


    All audience clapped their hands while waiting for the formal announcement.


    The host quickly appeared on stage bringing a huge cheque in his hand. It was the prize money for the tournament.


    "Ehem! Ladies and gentlemen may I present the champion of our first-ever online tournament. The Chronos squad!"


    Sofia and her team easily went towards the stage and joined the host.


    "So, let us see the real identity of the players behind the characters in the game. Let us start from their squad leader!" the host initiated while the audience were busy posting their feelings on their social media accounts.

 Chapter 102 - Championship (20)

    Sofia took a few steps forward and went near the microphone stand. Her movement was unhurried but her posture appeared very respectable. She stood there looking dignified.


    "Yes, thank you!" She offered a small smile towards the host and slightly bent her body to offer a customary bow. Her hand combed her short hair and gently tucked some of it on the back of her ear.


    Opposite to her, the host subconsciously copied her gesture of politeness and nodded at her. He then glanced at the other four members standing behind Sofia and could not help but compare their expressions.


    ''Phew! This girl is very calm. How could she maintain such kind of attitude in front of this crazy crowd?''


    They were facing the entire crowd but it could be seen that Sofia was not much affected by the presence of the people gazing at her from afar.


    Most of her teammates looked uncomfortable and slightly nervous after being subjected to the audience''s gaze. Only she maintained her undisturbed attitude.


    "Ehem, Ms. Sofia, please give your fans a little something about yourself," the host cleared his throat as he signal for her to speak and introduce herself to the people surrounding them. His eyes blinked a few more times for him to clear his thoughts.


    Earlier, he had familiarized the names and profiles of every member of the squad before he returned to the stage.


    It was unnecessary for he had already known the role of the players and he could easily call them using the characters that they had played during the match.


    For instance, he can call Sofia the squad leader or the tank user. The kind of addressing towards the player may sound informal but the online tournament had long practiced this. Especially when the host cannot remember names easily. The roles were much easier to use.


    ''I thought it was useless of me on checking their profiles. But now that I have met this kind of player, I must thank the heavens and my ancestors for compelling me to see their information!'' the host continued to ponder. There was no need for him to check the player''s profiles nor memorize their names.


    But for some reason, he did ask the people who compiled the participant''s details and looked into the Chronos squad information. Now, he felt satisfied that he had done it.


    Based on the participant''s profiles, he knew their age and that these squad members were all students. Thus, he was slightly startled when his eyes met with Sofia''s clear one.


    Somehow, there was something that tugged within his guts but he could not explain the feeling. The lady bore a different level of formality that he had only seen on his superiors.


    No, in fact, it was the superiority alone that he could see in Sofia''s eyes despite how young this girl standing in front of him! This was the very first time that he was confronted with a gaze from a younger gamer.


    ''This girl is not simple!'' the host finished his thoughts and secretly inhaled some air.


    Even though Sofia''s face resembled that of a teenager, there was a sense of maturity in her gaze that resembled that of an adult. Such a gaze that was enough to demand respect.


    Sofia looked around from the farthest rows of audience to the front seats. Her mouth slightly opened but the heavy noise continued, hence she did not speak yet. Sofia waited for the crowd to calm down.


    At this point, the light yelling of their audience had literally turned into screaming.


    Most of those who were screaming were the audience who placed their bet on the Chronos squad online. It could be seen that they had made a profit more than what they had spent from purchasing the ticket for the tournament. Thus, they could not help but expressed their joy wildly.


    "Ahehe, settle down, settle down. Let us hear the Champions of our tournament!" the host casually reminded the audience in hope of making the noise around turned low. But, they noised seemed unstoppable.


    "Wow, I''m trembling! Look at my hands!" Clark whispered, taking a long breath in the process. He opened his palms and secretly showed his hands shaking involuntarily. He could feel his heartbeat racing and shout wildly despite the loud noise coming from the crowd.


    "Damn right! We won!" Joey rustled back as if the idea of winning has not yet sunk on their mind. He proudly looked forward but did not maintain any eye contact. Mostly, he was facing above the walls of the gym while proudly internalizing the feeling of winning the tournament.


    "Haha, we won!" Claire echoed with misty eyes. She lightly smacked Clark''s hand but in the process, the boy grabbed her fingers and held it firmly.


    "Ahh, now I have calmed down," Clark chuckled without letting go of Claire''s hand.


    "Good for you," Claire glanced at him but did not bother retrieving her hand. Her voice somehow turned softer than usual. She then looked at the audience with her blurry vision and waved her other hand at them.


    The moment her free hand shot up in the air, the cheering thundered all over the gym. The wildness of their noise had turned into a different level!


    "You have so many fans, Claire!" Clark smiled and tightened his grip on her fingers. However, because of the noise, she was not able to hear him. Though, she could feel his hand gently squeezed her fingers.


    Claire may have not realized how much impact her casual waving of hand to the crowd but for everyone that had seen how she handled the game beautifully even from the starting matches of the tournament, it was meaningful. This was the assassin user that gave them great gameplay!


    The applaud continued and the host felt troubled. He could only laugh awkwardly after his reminder of them was dismissed. The audience seemed uncontrollable.


    Sofia gave the host a sympathetic smile and stepped forward. She had no problem introducing herself for she had her experience speaking in a large crowd.


    Her hand slightly moved upwards stopping just about her chest, gesturing for everyone to pay attention to her. In an instant, the loud noise around the place vanished without a trace.


    ''Wow! One lady lifted her hand and made the crowd so wild! Then another lady raised her too and made the entire crowd turned silent! What kind of terrifying presence is this!'' the host lamented. He was ignored by the audience earlier! But, just the gesture of these two players brought so much impact to the entire gym!


    Once the silence descended upon them, Sofia looked at the crowd with a satisfied expression. She scanned the entire audience area one more before she opened her mouth and spoke...


    "Gamers! I know all of us in this gym play online. At some point, we have also experienced being looked down on by those who cannot relate to the joy that we experienced inside the game. Alas! Sometimes it''s irritating when we hear degrading words just because we spend a tiny portion of our time on the game," Sofia paused and chuckled. She had examined the memories of the original owner of her body and felt the need to emphasize this experience to connect with the people around her. The audience also laughed slightly, as they could totally relate to her.


    "Whilst it is upsetting, we also need to understand that too much is harmful. Gaming is part of our life. But, please, take good care of your body! Do not abuse it and have plenty of rest," this time, she meant to express how much the original owner of her body had abused it to the point of losing her soul. Even if it may sound as if she was reprimanding those who were listening to her, she knew that it was necessary to be highlighted in her speech. And that moment was the best opportunity for her to express this message.


    Everyone in the audience side also clapped their hands. Those of the tournament organizers and even the viewers online agreed to her. They instantly praised Sofia for this reminder and appreciated her for the concern that she showed openly to them.


    "Lastly, my team expresses our deepest gratitude to the game developers of this online game for giving all of us here, the joy of playing anytime and anywhere! We were once accustomed to playing at home and in the computer shop. But since this game was launched and made available on our phone, we can play anytime and anywhere! Thank you! I hope that my fellow gamers would make their way to earn profit. Winning in the game is fun but if you are also making a profit while playing, you''ll be able to have a sense of self-fulfillment and security in your daily living. There is a great opportunity in the game that you need to uncover. Bring your passion to life! Thank you for supporting us! I am Sofia Su, the tank user CEO UNRIVALED!"

 Chapter 103 - Stage Fright

    ''Since when did this friend become so good at speaking? Even in oral recitation in our class, she sucks! But now, where did she get this kind of confidence!?'' Claire who was listening behind Sofia almost dropped her jaw in disbelief. She stared at Sofia''s back for a long time and began to remember about the past things that they reacted when speaking in public.


    ''Sofia had really changed into a different person! Even the way she spoke! That is not the same Sofia that I knew before!'' Claire continued to ponder.


    "Claire, Sofia is a good public speaker. She is not nervous or anything! Meanwhile, I can feel my entire legs getting mushy! What the heck... I want to know how she is not nervous right now!" Joey mumbled to them. He gently tapped his legs to emphasize that he felt slightly numb on her legs.


    "Yes, I also noticed that right now! I also wonder how she do it!" Claire supported while crossing her arms in her chests.


    "You mean, Sofia is not always like this?" Clark inquired.


    "Yeah, Sofia is not this confident before. But maybe because we are the champion and this gave her the adrenaline rush to speak in public easily," Claire stated.


    Meanwhile, the host on the other side was clapping his hands loudly. He was grinning from ear to ear until Sofia stopped talking on the microphone.


    "Excellent! That was a great message from the squad leader of the Chronos squad! Wow! This teen is so smart! Gamers must take her words at heart!" the host exclaimed after Sofia finished her speech.


    Everyone admired how meaningful Sofia had delivered her speech. It gained approval especially from the veterans who were also worried as to how the younger generations spent their time playing. Oftentimes, it was no longer healthy!


    "Sof, I don''t know what to say in front of the audience! What should I say?" Claire sheepishly whispered to Sofia while the host continued to speak his praises. She was very anxious about how she would deliver her speech as Sofia had been so thorough with what she had said to the crowd!


    "Ah, it was a speech for the squad leader, Claire. We members will just say a few introductions to ourselves. Come, let''s go together!" Clark initiated and pulled Claire at the center.


    "Alright! Let''s just go together!" Joey who was slightly nervous also pushed Stephen and the four of them formed a line on the stage.


    "Now that we are finished listening to the Chronos squad leader, let''s hear to the four members of their team!" the host easily introduced after realizing that the four went forward together.


    "Hi, I am Joey! I am the support user of the Chronos squad, Lethal Prey!" Joey made his quick speech, then, he quickly moved his feet backward and joined Sofia.


    On the audience side, Joey''s fans blushed and admired him after he introduced his role...


    "The support user is so cute! I am a support user too!" one female wearing a sexy dress mumbled. She was holding a camera  on her hand and was also doing a live coverage for her own social media followers.


    The man looked up and accidentally stared at the camera making the girl giggle more.


    "He is really cute, guys! I am not sure if he is single or not. But if he is single, I will not hesitate to be in a relationship with this cutie!" the female boldly declared. It was not clear if she had done it for the sake of her publicity or if she genuinely liked Joey.


    This public declaration of feeling was not knew and most of the influencers on their social media do it for the sake of gaining more popularity.


    On the stage, Joey appeared so proud that he was able to finish his introduction in just a few sentences. He was just relieved!


    "What?" Sofia looked at Joey who was grinning on her side.


    "Damn, I don''t know but I''m so shy right now! I have never thought this is how it feels to speak in front of a large crowd!" Joey chuckled and tried his best to maintain his composure.


    This was not his first time to face a crowd of people for he used to play the basketball tournament. However, it was his first time speaking in front of the crowd. Thus, he had lost control of his stage fright!


    "You did well!" Sofia stated and the two exchange a hi-five.


    "Thanks, Sof! It''s the hardest thing that I have done so far! And I don''t think Stephen likes speaking on a crowd like this one too." Joey muttered and took a deep breath. He knew that just like him, Stephen had no experience in facing the crowd.


    "Ahh, there is always a first time for everything! He will do just as fine as you! There is nothing to worry about," Sofia nodded while watching Stephen gripping the microphone stand.


    The man did make a dramatic pause and hesitated for a few breaths. Even if the man was visibly nervous, Sofia just observed him. She knew that Stephen must conquer this fear on his own.


    "I am Stephen, the marksman user of the Chronos squad. Thank you for your support," Stephen finally said and he slightly bowed. Then, he instantly dashed back to Joey and Sofia. It was as if he really had a skill that allowed him to move quickly.


    "Wow, you have made it! What a great introduction!" Joey playfully teased Stephen with a smirk on his face.


    "TSK!" Stephen could only click his tongue. He did not bother arguing with Joey for he was indeed nervous! He could feel the hot burning sensation on his face and ears. He knew that he was blushing!


    ''Ah, the developing stage of teenagers! I must teach this youngsters how to speak in public. They need to learn it once we started to do our endorsements,'' Sofia mentally noted. She was also imagining about the future of their group.


    "It''s mind-blowing, right?" Sofia joined those who had finished their vaccine and checked their welfare.


    "Its really scary to stand and speak in front!" Joey bitterly expressed.


    She did not expect that her team would feel too anxious. But still, she knew that this was a normal reaction. Especially for those who only focus on playing the game. Their social skills outside the virtual world would really be different.


    "Well done," Sofia said and offered a smile at Stephen but the man only rolled his eyes.


    "Hahaha, now you are actually rolling your eyes! That is some confidence!" Sofia added.


    "You are good at this, Sof. You must teach us how to maintain our confidence in speaking in a large crowd!" Stephen stated.


    "Hehehe, you''ll be like me in no time. Stand straight and pretend that no one is in front of you. Then, you''ll be fine to speak what is in your heart and mind," Sofia shared.


    "That''s impossible! How can we pretend when these people are not here? That is so hard to do!" Joey lamented.


    "All you have to do is speak. And then, you''ll realize that it is actually easier than you thought! Later, we will have our press conference and interview, I''ll make you the speaker" Sofia said.


    "Nah, what should we do if we are the speakers later? We have not prepared any speech! It is better if you speak to them, Sof! We are not really good at this kind of thing!" Joey shook his head in disagreement.


    "You haven''t tried it but you are already judging yourself? Aren''t you a bit harsh on your own ability?" Sofia smirked trying to challenge the two.


    "But, we have no prepared speech! It would be very embarrassing!" Stephen argued.


    "There is no need for you to prepare a speech. You''ll just have to share your experience with the team and what you have learned during this tournament," Sofia answered.


    "Ohh, if you say so! Then we will do that later," the two finally agreed before they looked at the two teammates.


    "Hi everyone! Good evening!" Claire greeted with full of enthusiasm in her voice. She then let Clark took over the microphone.


    "Hello, guys! I am Clark, the mage user of the Chronos squad. Amateur Mage," Clark simply stated with a casual tone.


    "Alright! Thank you for all the introduction, the Chronos squad players!" the host immediately acknowledges and was ready to give the prizes to them.


    However, before he could start speaking the speech that he had been preparing for the champions, a man on the crowed yelled, completely interrupting what he was about to say.


    "Hey, we need an introduction to our goddess! Give us introduction, the assassin user!"


    "That''s right! The assassin user did not introduce herself first!"


    "Prize later. Let us hear the user of Almighty Killer!"


    The crowd began to demand for Claire''s information. The large screen also automatically displayed the highlights of Claire''s assassin and her gameplay which forced the host to call Claire back to the original post.

 Chapter 104 - Choose Your Teammates Wisely!

    "OHOHO, may I request the assassin user to give tips on how to use the role efficiently?" the host instantly came up with the idea. Since he was a veteran, he could also relate to Claire''s reluctance to speak. The man knew that it was frightening to face the crowd for the first time.


    Claire gave a faint laugh after hearing how the host had emphasized the word ''efficiently''. Surely, she does not feel that she was good enough to give these kinds of tips.


    First, their squad was just formed for this tournament. Those who were more veteran would surely criticize was she speak too much.


    "What should I say to them, Sof? AHAHA, I am not that great player of the assassin role," she leaned on Sofia''s ear and whispered. She knew that Sofia would be able to give her some advice on what to tell the crowd.


    "Just mention the things that make you play the assassin role easier," Sofia whispered back at her.


    Claire nodded and took a deep breath. She also felt that Clark tapped her arm before the man gently nudged her to move forward.


    ''Just as I thought that my turn to speak is over! Huhu,'' Claire mentally groaned. Her hands started to sweat while she tried to rub them feeling a little comfortable.


    Sofia''s hand lightly patted the top of her head giving all her anxiety some rest.


    "They are your fans. Just treat it like you are talking with us," Sofia muttered.


    Claire pouted and went back to the middle of the stage...


    "Ladies and gentlemen, the assassin user of the Chronos squad!" the host repeated to introduce her and let her get into the microphone stand.


    Claire smiled at the man and then she glanced at the members of the Chronos squad. She giggled after seeing that the four of them gestured a thumbs up.


    "Hello, errr... I am C-Claire. I am the assassin user of the Chronos squad. Hehehe," Claire chuckled awkwardly and made a long time pause. She knew that her voice was a bit shaky, and her heart was rapidly beating too. ''Calm down, calm down,'' she mentally repeated to remind herself to calm.


    The entire gym turned silent waiting for Claire to continue. The host also glanced at her back with a sympathetic look.


    "It is true that the character in the game and in real life is not the same," WINS commented.


    "Well, I remember getting nervous on my first appearance in the public. I am also like this girl," one of his companions responded.


    "Their squad leader is remarkable! She could speak like you, boss WINS! Hehe, she''s not nervous!" the other companion stated.


    WINS stared at the group for a while in deep thought. He was also impressed with how Sofia made her speech.


    From where he was looking, he could see Sofia''s side looking straight ahead with a very serene expression. It was almost as if nostalgia was written on her face.


    "The Chronos squad leader, her background may not be simple. She mentioned her complete name earlier. Sofia Su, maybe she is from the Su Family in the fifth district?" WINS finally came up with his theory. After all, the player in the


    "That Su Family in district 5 who ruled those chains of business? Wow! Maybe she is their heir sent to the simple district 7 so she could get some normal life before she joins their corporate world?" one member supplied with a comical look in his face.


    "Wow! That is only in the dramas! It does not happen in real life," WINS playfully told his member.


    "AISH!!! Boss WINS, it is not just a drama. Those rich people really do this kind of thing!" the member insisted.


    "We don''t know about their background but what is sure is that it is not simple," WINS finished and returned his attention to the assassin user of the Chronos squad.


    On the stage, Claire was struggling to breathe. Her anxiety started to turn higher but she forced herself to face the crowd.


    "Ehem! So, about my tips in playing assassin role... well, I-I am not really that expert. I am just like you people," Claire emphasized.


    "Awe, this lady is too modest!" an audience talked to the person sitting in front of him. The man also looked behind and nodded at him in approval.


    "If you are not that expert then I don''t know what an expert is!" another person laughed lightly and everyone joined him.


    "Hehe, so... as I was saying... ehem! My tips are... th-that you must familiarize the battlefield. N-not just the lanes and the jungle monsters with buffs but including the distance of each grass and your movement speed. Y-you need to conceal your presence and wait for the right timing, so this familiarization of the grass area is very helpful. Y-your movements also change depending on which boots you will use, so, you have to check these details... And--- ehem!" Claire paused again and took a long breath. She was stuttering badly.


    Finally, after some time of reminding herself to calm, she felt a lot better after speaking few words.


    "And you also need to grasp the dynamics of the walls." Claire went to a full stop.


    "The walls? Interesting! Could you please elaborate about the walls, Ms. Claire?" the host asked her.


    "The walls are part of the battlefield and not just a decorative element of the map. We might think that only the characters fighting has their dynamics but the stones and walls also have their own purpose," Claire stated.


    "Come and share to us the purpose! Even I am not so good with this! I will definitely follow your tips!" the host showed a glint of interest in his eyes.


    "Okay, so the walls... There are walls that we can use certain skills such as... the dash forward of my character and I can easily through the opposite side. Some walls are also solid and would block your movements, giving you a dead end. If you familiarize these things, your escape route will be maximized," Claire finished. In her gameplay, she was mostly reliant on these things, hence, she felt the need to share them with the audience.


    The entire gym still remained silent despite Claire''s ended speech. She had even turned around and was about to move away, but then, she retracted her movement and gazed back at the audience...


    She suddenly remembered Sofia''s advice.


    ''Just mention the things that make you play the assassin role easier.''


    It rang to her head as if she was being reminded that she missed some kind of important tip and now, she knew what it was.


    "It is a 5 v 5 map because the game is about teamwork. Even if you are the greatest assassin user, if your teammates are not willing to cooperate, there is still a tendency that you''ll end up feeding. So choose your squad playmates... wisely!" she confidently added with a grin.


    Teamwork!


    Everyone shared the same thought and agreed with her.


    "AHA! That''s right! Teamwork is everything to carry out your strategies!" the host instantly agreed and took over the microphone stand.


    In the side of the audience area, those solo players who were within the bleachers alone nodded their heads and instantly agreed to Claire too.


    They simultaneously expressed their thoughts loudly about their troubles in playing solo.


    "Ahh, great sister, you are right! Having a good teammate is an advantage!"


    "Choose your teammates wisely! But my friends do not play! I have no luck getting a good team!"


    "Aye, this is true! Agree, agree!"


    Playing with a random team was indeed one of the hardest and most challenging matches to play.


    From the lineup picking where no one would want to adjust character roles. Sometimes, there were three marksmen players that would never change roles because they were confident of their abilities to carry. Only to end up being the food of the enemies.


    Also, getting buffs and who would take the role as junglers could cause great destruction of a character''s growth. There were also times when the teammate is too greedy for kills only to die in the process of chasing the enemy... these kinds of struggles cannot be avoided by solo players.


    "Now, we have heard from the assassin user. Teamwork is everything in this real-time strategy game!" the host repeated.


    "Alright, we will give the rewards to our champion but before that, there is an important announcement from the game developers and organizers of this tournament." the host added and then another man walked out from the personnel door.


    The man was wearing a business suit and his entire aura exudes authority. Something that Sofia could tell that the man was perhaps a CEO himself!


    "To the players and patrons of the game, I came here to give you some interesting information. With the success of this tournament, we will hold another one! This time, it would be a regional tournament! And there is also a game update for the mode of the game!" the man quickly spoke.


    "The details of the next tournament will be posted online with no fixed venue yet! But, you can now form your squads and start your practice!" the man added and the entire crowd became excited. What the man had said gave them joy.


    "So, the most interesting part of the regional tournament is that you will get a more exciting cash prize and other deals. And the mode of banning a character during the lineup picking in the lobby before the match began will be practiced!"

 Chapter 105 - The Ban Feature

    Hearing that a new feature would be added to the game, the gym began to overflow with murmurs from the crowd.


    "What is the ban feature? Is that like a difficult mode?"


    "OMG! That banning option! It is when you prohibit the opponent to play a certain character! Cool!!! Then, players in this game need to familiarize more than one character! Ohh, that is hard but still, it''s cool!"


    "Haha, I know this ban feature. This one is available in pc games. When the update comes, that is one challenge to all mobile players. Especially if the character that they are playing will be blocked by their enemy!"


    "Awesome! If they add the ban mode, it will really make the match more exciting! I''ve been waiting for this feature to be added!"


    It can be heard that every player of this game does not really understand the ban mode feature. Some are in deep confusion while others were exchanging their opinions.


    There were players who just learned to play online because the game became available on their mobile phones. Hence, newbies like them could not relate much to what the news was all about. They could only listen to those more experienced gamers talking enthusiastically about the news.


    Indeed, those who had learned to play online games on pc first already knew about the ban mode. But, at this point, they have not yet experienced this feature on the mobile game. These players had also complained to the moderators of the game about the lacking feature.


    Now that the announcement of adding the ban feature was formally out, the audience''s subject of discussion quickly focused on this new feature. Their talking became non-stop and the host was having difficulty breaking their chitchats.


    "Hehe, our audience could not wait to play this feature! Let us hear additional information about the future version of the game!" the host interjected to grab the crowd''s attention back to them.


    Finally, the sound from the bleachers toned down, until everyone stopped their discussion and started to listen.


    The man who had just announced the news slowly adjusted the tie of his neck. Then, he looked at the host.


    "Alright, let''s listen!" the host casually repeated and nodded at the man.


    "Yes! In line with this new mode, there will be an update coming in the version of the game to add the banning feature in the next days to come. For the next tournament, we welcome every participant to the regional competition!" the man slightly glanced at the Chronos squad members.


    His gaze specifically landed on Sofia but the lady was looking at the audience instead of him.


    "Congratulations to the champion of this match!" the man stated and finally got the attention of Sofia.


    Both of them looked at each other for a few seconds and nodded their heads.


    Sofia was the first to nod her head and the man subconsciously followed her gesture.


    In an instant, the man was completely surprised by the signal of the lady. Her movement conveyed a sense of familiarity. It was as if she was acknowledging a business partner!


    The man could not help but ask himself, ''How could this girl casually nod at me when the other people were completely intimidated by my presence?!''


    Sofia did not break their eye contact and stared at the man with her clear eyes. Her gaze traveled to the sophisticated name tag written just on the right side of his suit where his name was formally scribbled. His position was also placed below his name.


    Greg Washington


    Chief Technology Officer


    Based on the man''s posture, Sofia guessed that he was around 27 years old. With his position, she could tell that the man might be one of the creators of the game. Perhaps, a gamer himself that had retired and decided to make a new game in the mobile version.


    ''A CTO? Hmmn, if the man is the chief technology officer behind this game, how big had this tournament had become for him to visit here personally?'' Sofia secretly wondered.


    She was only aware of the online trends but in fact, sometime around the afternoon that day, the game already hit its first million users!


    The app recorded the highest gain of users in a single day that all of the big bosses made an emergency meeting. There was no other gaming tournament held on that day other than what Sofia and her team had participated in.


    After knowing about the cause of rising their statistics, these corporate personalities behind the game instantly decided to organize another tournament.


    The man that Sofia was facing even volunteered to see the hype of the district 7 championship!


    This means that the online district tournament had really given the company that owned the game their real profit!


    Thus, the chief technology officer quickly flew on a private jet just to see the tournament himself! He had not witnessed the entire elimination round. But, he was able to see the last match of the Chronos squad vs the Lee Gaming squad.


    The man slowly walked towards the group and extended his hand for a handshake.


    "Congratulations!" he formally greeted the group.


    Seeing that the man wanted to shake their hands, the four members of the Chronos squad was completely hesitant. For some reason, the man had really intimidated them.


    "Thank you, Mr. Washington! It''s our pleasure to meet you!" Sofia firmly shook the man''s hand.


    ''Mr. Washington?'' the man mentally repeated his name in a form of a question, but only smiled slightly at Sofia.


    Seeing the action of their squad leader, the four members finally reached out and exchanged a handshake too.


    "Thank you, sir!" the four said simultaneously before shaking the hands of the man.


    "Well played!" the man muttered.


    There were no other formalities after that. The man just gave the group a formal smile, one that is not too friendly and not too cold.


    Not long after the man left, Clark tapped on Claire''s shoulder.


    "Now, you have said well in your speech!" he complimented.


    "Oh, I was so nervous! My voice was even breaking!" Claire giggled. She did not felt embarrassed about the experience. All she had was felt proud that she had overcome the ordeal.


    In the distance, the host started announcing the sponsors of the tournament again but he did not announce the man''s exact identity to the crowd which made Sofia slightly intrigued.


    Surely, there was no way for the host to missed such obvious details of the man! His position was not something that should be ignored.


    In the corporate world, Sofia knew that the big bosses of a certain organization rarely appear in this kind of tournament. They will only participate in formal company gatherings and parties. Thus, she became curious about the man''s attendance.


    "We will join, right?" Clark suddenly asked. But after noticing Sofia''s serious expression, he had sensed that their group might not join.


    "Sof? Are we going to join?" Joey also inquired


    Despite the enthusiasm of the crowd about the news, Sofia''s face remained undisturbed. There was no hint of excitement in her expression that majority of the gamers had.


    "Are you okay, Sof? Haha, Could it be that this is the only time that the reality of our victory had sunk in your system?" Claire joked.


    "Hehe, No. I am just thinking some things... Anyway, it''s too early to decide for our participation in the tournament," Sofia finally mumbled.


    "Ahh, you''re right!" Joey and Clark simultaneously responded. They also realized that the venue might be in the other district and it may have a conflict with their studies. After all, they still need to focus on their school activities!


    "This new mode, it might be difficult to win," Claire suddenly mentioned. She recognized how tough it would be in playing a new role.


    "That next tournament is indeed not that simple. Even I also know that this is difficult. I only know how to play this tank character. I have practiced playing this character since the game was released. So, if there is a ban feature and my character will be ban, that would be a disaster!" Sofia instantly admitted.


    "Yeah, we need to practice thoroughly for another character and familiarize their dynamics," Stephen prompted.


    Sofia sighed and stared at their prize that the host was holding.


    She knew that the original owner of the body was really focusing on using the specific tank character. This girl was only addicted to one role. So, she did not dare to tell her members that they would be participating or not.


    It was too early. For Sofia, this means two options. They would practice and test their progress first. Or they can wait for another tournament to open.


    "Well, let''s see what we can do. I''m sure, we can easily familiarize using other roles of the game," Sofia finished. With their passion was set on playing online games, she was also confident that it would not take long for them to learn other roles.

 Chapter 106 - Possessed By A Rich Ghost?

    After the host finished announcing all the sponsors of the event, a slender female joined him in the middle stage. This female held a striking beauty and a face that demands attention.


    Seeing her face on the stage, the audience below almost opened their mouth and forgot to close them.


    Sofia''s team was just waiting behind listening to the announcements and looked at the female.


    "Woahh, that''s a great beauty! Who could she be?" Joey whispered to Stephen.


    "All females in your eyes are great beauty!" Stephen chuckled.


    "Hello, good evening district 7!" the slender female greeted in the mic.


    "Good evening..." The crowd simultaneously hummed their response to her.


    Everyone looking at her could guess that she is in her middle twenties. The female was wearing a beige A-line skirt dress and a pair of black heels. This outfit complimented with her blonde hair that Sofia could not help but looked at the female with an approval gaze. There was a brooch clipped on her clothing located on the side of her chest with a scribbled name, "MIKA".


    "Her fashion sense is on top!" Sofia told her companions.


    Claire gave her a strange look after she heard Sofia''s compliment. "Since when did you have some interest in fashion, Sof? You have never cared about dresses before!"


    "It''s actually really a nice dress. That''s maybe a signature outfit," Clark joined them.


    "Yes. Hehe, I am complimenting the dress. She looked like a character of the game I used to play. It looks nice!" Sofia quickly devised an alibi. Of course, there was no real in-game character reference for the outfit of the lady. But, this was the only thing that she had thought to respond to Claire''s strange look.


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Sofia slightly giggled when Claire continued to stare at her.


    She inwardly made a facepalm for this slip of the tongue. The original owner of her body only appreciated the game and nothing more. If there was an outfit that the original owner of her body appreciated, it was the skins of some gaming characters.


    "Well, I have never seen you comprehend fashion before. Then, you actually admired the lady. She is pretty but I just did not expect for you to be so thorough about her outfit," Claire shrugged.


    "Hahaha, Even I have also felt my change of interest," Sofia casually answered.


    "Yeah? It is not only your interest that changed, Sof!" Claire murmured.


    "Huh? What else then? I don''t think I''ve changed," Sofia feigned ignorance. There was no way for her to reveal that she was only a soul transmigrated in a body of a teenager. That would be out of the context of a real-life situation!


    "Maybe, you don''t see that changes. Or, you don''t realize it. But, almost everything actually changed!" Claire insisted.


    "Everything?" Sofia tilted her head and pretended to be in deep thought.


    "Yes, everything! It felt like sometimes you are possessed by a ghost. You are acting differently. But not in a bad way! In fact, it is quite admirable!" Claire confessed. Because the two of them were the only close friends, it was easy for her to determine that this lady was really acting differently.


    "Do you believe in ghosts?" Sofia suddenly asked smirking at her friend. She was confident that Claire does not believe in supernatural elements. This was her perfect rebuttal for her friend.


    "I don''t! But, now that you have acted differently..." Claire paused looked at her friend from head to her feet. "You know what, you are like possessed with a rich ghost! Your way of speaking and the way you move or walk, that is not how the Sofia I know would act! You are so refined, Sof!"


    "Ohh, that, I''ll take that as a compliment. But, this is still me," Sofia smiled. She slightly felt guilty for the teenage girl in front of her, but there was no better way to explain her situation.


    If she would tell the girl that her soul came from the future, it would be a mess! Her friend may accuse her of becoming delusional because of the futuristic online games that the original owner of her body had played before.


    "Yeah, that''s some kind of compliment because your changes are really great! Not long ago, we are just planning to join a squad to participate. But on the last day of submitting our application, you decided to create a squad. And now, who would have thought? We really made it and become a champion of the tournament!" Claire recounted their achievements.


    "That''s right! We have a long way to go! This is just the start!" Sofia casually said.


    "Ahh! look at you now! The Sofia I knew would never speak like that!" Claire emphasized.


    "I think I am starting to mature now... We are a teenager and it is normal to develop and improve our self-awareness," Sofia stated.


    "Yes, you are really talking like a mature person, Sof!" Claire finished.


    "You will become mature soon when the right time. For now, just enjoy playing!" Sofia smiled at the teenager.


    Claire nodded and then looked at the slender female standing beside the host.


    "Good evening, once again! I am Mika, an organizer of this event. So, it is time for us to recognize our champions and give them awards. Most of our participants who had played outstanding gameplays, good game well played!" the slender female began her speech.


    ~


    Meanwhile, Mr. Greg Washington, the man who congratulated Sofia''s team earlier, stayed in the room located at the backstage of the gym where the only authorized person had access to the room.


    The man was already in the virtual meeting with the other boss of the company.


    "So, Greg! How''s the district 7?" a voice echoed out from his phone.


    "I say... I''ve met an interesting gamer. But, she is young, still, she had an interesting character." Greg responded with a dry laugh.


    "Did I hear you correctly? Are you actually smiling?" the other line sounded with suspicion as if he was teasing the man.


    "Hehe, that Chronos squad, do we have arrangements with their sponsorships and brand deals?" Greg suddenly asked not minding the teasing tone of the man that he was speaking with.


    "There should be. It''s part of the payment for them to have this opportunity to promote a brand product. But there was no specific information from the sales department yet," the man on the other line sounded serious as he answered.


    "Hmmn," Greg did not speak further. He only hummed in recognition.


    "So, tell me... what kind of interesting character have you met in that small district?" the man continued to ask after he heard nothing from Greg.


    "That squad leader of the Chronos squad. I swear, I could see your eyes in her. It was crazy but I am not kidding!" Greg easily replied.


    "What kind of eyes? The dullness and lifeless one? Hehe, that''s what happened when they play too much of the online game!" the man chuckled feeling a little guilty of his bad habit of playing the game also.


    "No, it''s not that gaze. It''s different! The one that I have recognized as unconquerable gaze in your eyes. That one determined look you have when you are planning big!" Greg stated.


    "Ohoho, could it be that you have missed me already?" the man quipped as a joke.


    "Oh my... no! It''s real! We have seen each other this morning, why would I miss work?" Greg frowned The person he was calling seemed to be messing up with him.


    "You sound really serious. Now, I want to hear your observation," the man on the other line answered.


    "You don''t actually believe me? Hmph! I''ll tell you, I have seen that scheming expression you have when your plan is almost achieved. This is the expression the Chronos squad leader gave me after I congratulated them!" Greg said sternly.


    "Scheming expression? I don''t have that!" the man denied.


    "Ahh, whatever you say!" Greg leaned his body on the wall and yawned.


    "Hahaha, so technically, this sly expression that you call is the expression of intelligence! Anyway, you should fly back here tonight. You have a date with that sweet lady you have met last week!"


    "Nah, I don''t think I''ll be in the best condition to dine with her tonight. The air traffic of this district was horrible!" Greg shook his head in disapproval.


    "Oh, so you won''t come back in the company? What are your plans then?"


    "Sleep? I''ll tell my secretary to book me a hotel for tonight," Greg released another yawn in between his words.


    "Okay! Well, with the profit that we are having today, there is no problem if you don''t come back to work for this week!" the man chuckled.


    "Damn right! I never thought that using a tournament to boost our game will give this effect! Now, I''ll take my rest!" Greg smiled and then started to walk towards the audience area.


    "Then, I''ll see you when you come back. The ban mode is ready for release. We will proceed to update the new version of the game tomorrow!"


    "Yes, go for that! See ya!" the man finally ended the conversation.


    When he locked his phone, the screen reflected the information of the identity of the man that he was talking with - CEO Ray +*********2314.

 Chapter 107 - Victory Party Invitation

    "There is no doubt with that girl''s gaze that I have seen earlier. It''s really the same as that man! Her clear eyes have a sense of authority and conviction. I can sense that she possessed a pearl of deep wisdom," Greg mumbled to himself as his mind replayed his initial encounter with Sofia. A dry laugh escaped from his lips before he dialed the number of his secretary.


    "Sir Washington, your plane is ready to take you back tonight! If you are ready, the run way is available anytime," the secretary prompted upon the second ring of his call. It was a soft sound of a woman from the other side of the call.


    "I won''t be flying back. Arrange my schedule until tomorrow. I will be back on the 16th," Greg''s professional voice commanded over the phone.


    "16th? But sir, how about this date tonight that I have booked from the most exclusive restaurant?" the woman instantly asked feeling that her boss may have forgotten that it was Valentine''s Day!


    "Just tell her that something had come up and I had to stay longer here in this district 7," Greg responded. There was a sense of firmness in his voice that made the secretary sounded a bit disappointed.


    "Very well, I will reschedule everything and tell your date that there is an emergency meeting that you need to oversee out of town. Do you have other instructions, sir?" the secretary asked.


    "Yes, booked me a hotel in district 7. I''ll stay here for a while," Greg stated.


    "Okay sir, the hotel, do you have a preference? and for how many people should I book, sir?" the secretary verified.


    "Just me," the man answered.


    "Right away sir! I''ll send you the details once I confirmed the hotel booking!" the secretary responded.


    "Alright. That''s all," Greg said and disconnected the call.


    "It is rare to see the world outside my office. This time, I will have a tour in this small district," the man vowed for himself. He then made his way to the area where he could see the stage. Then he spotted an empty seat of the front area beside the FAB_Gamers side.


    "Boss WINS, this ban feature is really interesting! I can''t wait to register for the next tournament!" one member of the FAB_Gamers squad excitedly chirped wearing a comical expression on his face.


    "Yes, we will register for that tournament" WINS nodded his head in agreement. He was also excited about the news that the game had an additional ban mode.


    As Greg moved his feet and occupied the empty seat, he overheard the conversation of WINS and his two companions.


    "May I sit here?" Greg interrupted making the three figures looked up on his face.


    "Yes, the place is empty," WINS quickly answered after recognized that the man was the one who had announced the ban feature of the game.


    "So, how''s it going here? This tournament seemed to have so many people or tourists. They are not good!" Greg asked the three players. Even WINS took a liberty to gazed boldly at the man.


    WINS smiled and thought about the question.


    "I have been here before the start of the tournaments. The entire event is nice and there was nothing bad that I have encountered." WINS answered while his companions nodded to support his claims.


    "The tournament is hyped then! Glad to know your experience. Are you from around here?" Greg asked the group.


    The man glanced at the three FAB_Gamers players and gave them a faint smile.


    "Mister, you are the one who announced about the ban feature, right?" one of WINS companions easily asked after noticing the degree of formality that the man was wearing.


    "Yes, it was me. I am working in the game at the technology department," Greg responded before his eyes landed to the center stage.


    "Cool!" the three stated in chorus.


    On the stage, the host was already done presenting all the championship awards of the Chronos squad.


    "Please give our champion for the first-ever online game tournament in this district. A round of applause!" the host finished and the people around the gym quickly clapped their hands.


    "Hehe, I know that the five of you are students. Am I right?" the host inwuired.


    "Yes, we are students. I am in third year," Sofia answered right away.


    "So, how does it feel that you are number one trending in social medeia!?" the host continued.


    "There are emotions of gratitude for the support!" Clark interjected.


    "Awe, that''s nice! Anyway, what do you plan for this prize that you have won from this tournament? This is if you do not mind me asking publicly about this matter, I''m quite curious really," the host casually mumbled. Then, he gave the microphone to Sofia.


    Their plans? Most of the members of the group have gone silent.


    "This prize of this tournament will be divided equally for the five of us. We are students and we are still thinking of where can we invest the money. Right now, we have not decided yet." Sofia said.


    This direct answer from her made the host stared at her for a few more seconds before he pretended to cough to cover his surprised expression.


    ''Here I thought that these teenagers would want to buy a new gadget or something!'' the host secretly thought.


    Considering the age of the five members of the Chronos squad, he instantly assumed that the group may be planning to get an upgrade to their gadget. Or perhaps buy a gaming tool. Who would have thought that Sofia directly told him that the group was looking forward to investing their prize money? This response had really caught him off guard.


    "Hehe, that''s a great decision! Good luck on your investments!" the host forced a laugh.


    "Thank you!" Sofia smiled.


    The audience was then given a chance to take a photo with them. Without hesitation, people flocked on the stage to get a groufie or selfie from each player. From left to right, all of them gave a friendly smile.


    Not long after, the Chronos squad returned to their boot where Jing Jing was waiting for them.


    "Guys! I am already on a live video and the fans on our official page are congratulating you guys!" Jing Jing beamed at the five teenagers before she maneuvered the camera and focused the lens on them.


    The five members waved and smiled at the camera holding the prizes they had won.


    "Okay, so we will let some of our fans ask questions. We will pick random questions!" Jing Jing initiated.


    "Sure! Feel free to ask questions, guys!" Sofia enthusiastically stated. She then made a quick look at her members and noticed that exhaustion was evident in their expressions.


    "Yey! Q & A!" Joey and Clark said with a smile. Despite their eyes looked tired, they still managed to give a genuine and joyous smile.


    Stephen and Claire also grinned at the camera, waiting for the question to come on the comment side.


    Minutes quickly turned an hour while the group was happily entertaining the questions from their online fans.


    At this point, all of them were totally tired. They just wanted to take a quick nap. Jing Jing was also sensible and initiated to end their live.


    "Thank you everyone for joining this live! Viewers, stay tuned for the updates of the Chronos squad! Be sure to like our official page to see our future games! Bye Bye!" Jing Jing said and then ended the live.


    "Okay," Jing Jing sighed and gave Sofia an apologetic smile. "Sorry if it took so long. But this video is really worthy of your time."


    "Sis Jing Jing, it''s okay. Now, let''s find a place to get dinner." Sofia stated.


    "I think that the tournament organizers have arranged a victory party!" Jing Jing said.


    "Oh, but, I have no more energy left in my body!" Claire groaned.


    Out of a sudden, a young man went to their booth and handed them the victory party. The hotel is one of the most well-known establishments in the place.


    "Ma''am we have organized a small gathering, we will provide the transportation," the young man stated.


    "No need, we can go to this place with our own transportation," Sofia rejected the young man''s offer.


    "Okay, noted! Anyway, ma''am, it is a victory party at that venue. See you there," the young man made a quick intro before he left.


    After the young man left the group ran towards the sofa and slumped their backs.


    " I know that you are tired but we cannot reject this championship party. This is done for us," Sofia told her team. However, she knew that it was extended publicity for the tournament organizer to gain more money from their viewers.


    "Okay, we can go back to our place and get dressed for the party!" Clark suggested.


    "Yes. Let''s go now. This party will start at 8:30 pm," Sofia said as she finished seeing the information on the invitation.

 Chapter 108 - Why Not?

    "The victory party is just on the seaport area. Hehe, looking at the sea during the night is actually relaxing." Clark started after taking a peek at the invitation card that Sofia was holding.


    "That''s true. This is a great place to go! Hehe," Joey enthusiastically stated.


    The audience of the gym had already left when they took a step out of their booth. But, the staff and some participants remained for the interview.


    Jing Jing listened to the members of the Chronos squad talking about the victory party. She maintained a slow pace behind them to give the group a sense of privacy in their discussion.


    Just as the group was about to take a step towards the parking area, Sofia turned her head and looked in her direction. Both of them shared a friendly smile.


    "Sister Jing, thank you for today!" Sofia said with a hint of sincerity in her tone.


    The lady expressing her gratitude all of a sudden completely startled Jing Jing. She did not expect Sofia to thank her for she did not really do the majority of their alliance. In the end, it was still the Chronos squad who played well during the tournament. It should be her who must thank the group instead!


    "Thank you also! Thank you for giving me your contact and initiating to work with my company," Jing Jing slightly bowed her head and showed her gratitude to the group.


    "The matter of publicity and other media concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me. You have my phone number saved on your phone, right?" Sofia inquired.


    "Yes, of course! I will contact you right away when there is an important development on the Chronos squad official page," Jing Jing replied.


    "Hehe, by the way, Sister Jing, do you have arrangements for tonight?" Sofia asked Jing Jing politely. She also held the invitation letter for the victory party in her hand. Her index finger tracing the edges of the letter.


    "No, I have no plans for tonight. But, I''ll monitor the hype on the internet. Since we just created the Chronos squad official page, the admins may need to publish many contents from your gameplays earlier," Jing Jing replied maintaining eye contact with her.


    "Oh, just leave those to the admins of the page. You have done enough. Might as well come with us in attending this victory party!" Sofia offered.


    "I don''t think that''s a good idea. I am part of the rival press company that the tournament organizers contracted. It''s best to avoid conflict!" Jing Jing respectfully declined. She knew the protocol about private parties. The media personalities like her needed a formal invite for them to join.


    "Oh, okay. Then, we will go ahead to prepare for this party. But if you change your mind, just send me a message. This time, you''ll just be part of us," Sofia initiated.


    It may be a victory party but in this kind of business, Sofia was well aware that this dinner won''t be about them being the champion of the tournament.


    Usually, participants of the tournament had their squad backing by gaming clubs. Thus, the organizer won''t arrange a victory party for the champion team.


    The victory party was for the company behind the tournament. Those staff who worked hard for the preparation of the event. The success of their preparation was the one that would be highlighted in the dinner and not the players.


    "We are just attendees in this party, sister Jing. Might as well grab great food! I heard that the venue specialized great dessert!" Sofia added with a small laugh. Then she turned around and her members followed her lead.


    Jing Jing nodded her head and stared at the retreating figure of the group.


    "This young lady sounded so knowledgable. And the way she talked was so hard to contradict," Jing Jing murmured.


    When the group reached the stop area for a private vehicle, a 7 seater car stopped near the group. The driver in the car quickly got out and opened the door of the car.


    Jing Jing halted her steps and watched as the five teenagers went inside the car until the vehicle left.


    When she decided to walk towards her car, the phone in her pocket vibrated hinting at her for a new message. She instantly fished out the device and looked at the screen.


    The message was from Sofia sending her the venue of the victory party.


    Victory Party


    Seaside Function Hall, Rrad Hotel, District 7


    8:30 PM


    "Hehe, this girl..." Jing Jing mumbled before she placed her phone back in her pocket. "8:30 huh? It looks like I need to hurry!"


    Jing Jing does not really plan on going out that evening. She was supposed to dine at a fine restaurant with Drake. But with their relationship tragically ended, she felt not in the mood to go to a party.


    However, for her to received this text message from Sofia, she quickly understood that the lady wished her to join them.


    This is one character that Jing Jing possessed. She usually does not like attending parties regardless of what mood she is, unless it would be connected with her work.


    Jing Jing may treat the message of Sofia as just a casual second invite to the party. But in fact, the lady had actually known her attitude in her last life.


    At the same time, all members of the Chronos squad had victorious expressions on their faces. They sat in the car with high spirits despite the exhaustion that they felt. As they talked about their gameplays and congratulated one another, everyone shared jubilant laughter, including the old man driving the car.


    This was the only moment that they have gained privacy, hence, they expressed most of their emotions right away.


    "Who are you texting?" Stephen suddenly asked after noticing that Sofia had become busy with her phone.


    "It was the big sister Jing Jing. I sent her the location of the party," Sofia answered and showed Stephen the screen of her phone with the one message sent for Jing Jing.


    "Ohh, but she said that she would not go?" Stephen curiously asked.


    "Nah, that''s just like her. But if you give her the details of the party, she will actually attend it," Sofia easily answered.


    Stephen did not think too much of her response. But if he would have listened to Sofia''s words directly, he would actually know that there was a sense of familiarity with it. She had just casually described Jing Jing''s character to him!


    "Okay," Stephen nodded before leaning his head to the window of the car.


    "Uhmm, what should we wear to this party? Should I pick a suit? Coz, I don''t have that kind of outfit in my place!" Joey mentioned.


    "Nahh, this is a victory party arranged by the tournament organizers. As long as we choose a decent outfit, no one will really complain about it," Sofia responded.


    "Ok. Then, I''ll stick with a polo and jeans. How about you, bro?" Joey glanced at Stephen and Clark.


    "I''ll also wear a polo and jeans," Stephen replied.


    On the other hand, Clark hesitated for a bit. He seemed to have difficulty deciding what he would be wearing at the party. he was torn between wearing a formal suit as he was also from a respected family. Therefore, he had to protect his image. Or if he would just use a casual outfit as Joey and Stephen had expressed.


    "Ohoho, rich kid problems only!" Joey playfully told Clark after he noticed the reluctance in the boy''s expression.


    "Tsk! Rich kids have so many outfits to the point that it becomes troublesome in choosing which outfit to wear! Hehe," Stephen patted Clark''s head.


    "Anything you wear Clark would look descent on you!" Claire said.


    "Yiiieeee... what are you two? Is this some sort of a scenario that is getting a crush and being the crush of your crush thingy? What''s going on!" Joey pried and teased Clark further. In the background, Stephen was also clapping his hand as if cheering for the idea of the two to become a couple.


    In an instant, a deep tint of pink appeared on Claire and Clark''s faces. Their heads felt light and for some reason, these two shared the same amount of restraint.


    "I am just telling the truth," Claire softly grumbled. Her lips formed into a cute pout.


    "Right, right! You are just telling the truth! Hehe, you are so handsome, bro! Ayiiee!" Joey continued while messing with Clark''s hair. Their tiredness suddenly disappeared as the discussion had gone further.


    "Well, getting a relationship on this occasion is just perfect," Sofia supported. Although her mindset was focused on the game the old soul within her did not forget that it was Valentine''s Day!


    "Ahaha, stop it!" Clark lightly smacked the hands Joey and shyly looked at Sofia. When he saw that Sofia did not have a playful expression on her face, he felt a sense of encouragement from her.


    "Well. Claire deserved to be courted. If she agrees, why not?" a genuine smile bloomed on Clark''s face as he took a courage to look at Claire in the eye.


    "Tsk! Why not?" Claire repeated and even winked at him!

 Chapter 109 - Work Hard

    "Whoahh! Good!" Sofia looked at Claire and then glanced at Clark with admiration. She had caught the two held their hands earlier and she also sensed that there was an attraction between them. Hence, the old soul within the teenager''s body instantly gave approval.


    This was the kind of feeling that she had missed in her last life. She never engaged in a romantic relationship and she felt somewhat regretful.


    "Life is short. Enjoy it! As long as you know your boundaries," Sofia told her two members.


    Now that the feelings of the two were laid before the group, the other two remaining men of the Chronos squad giggled seeing the cute expression of their two friends.


    "Good for you, Clark! Now, make Claire say yes!" Stephen patted him gently.


    Clark had gone full red as if he over applied some blush on in his face. Claire''s cheeks also turned pinkish.


    "My... my... my! You two should go out! Today is a perfect date! Ahhh... I will support you two!" Joey clapped his hands in excitement. At some point, his expression even looked more girly than Sofia''s face.


    "Hehe, Why not huh?! Then, I will court you Claire until you say yes!" Clark stated while suppressing his face to grin widely.


    "Good luck!" Clair playfully moved both of her eyebrows up several times.


    "Hehe, I have great luck. Look at me. I can''t even barely play the game yet, you have accepted me to be the mage user. I would never be able to experience being a champion if I lack the luck!" Clark stated with a sense of pride in his tone.


    "Ayiiee... Alright, you look good at each other! Just be girlfriend and boyfriend already!" Stephen supported that earned a glare from Sofia.


    "What''s the rush?" Sofia slightly scowled.


    "Didn''t you say that life is short? Since these two liked each other then, they can just skip the courting stage?" Stephen defended while using the initial words that Sofia had said.


    "Awe... thank you, Stephen! But, I think Clark should court me so that he would be able to familiarize my attitude first. We may be compatible by appearance but in the long run, it is the character that matters," Claire grinned.


    "That''s right! Even if they like each other, they have to familiarize their attitude first," Sofia looked at Claire proudly.


    Stephen shrugged and did not answer. At this point, they have also reached their place.


    "Okay, I will pick you two at eight pm?" Clark inquired when Sofia and Claire stepped out of the car.


    "Yes, see ya!" Claire chirped while Sofia nodded her head before the two started going towards the entrance of their building.


    "Sof, what do you think about Clark and me being in a relationship?" Claire suddenly asked while they were going towards the hallway of the building.


    "It will be easy at first but you need to work hard when you''ll be in a serious relationship," Sofia casually replied.


    "What do you mean?" Claire momentarily halted her steps and looked at Sofia in the face.


    "Well, other than being a student, and a gamer, we don''t have a special background. However, Clark is from a respected family in our district. So, some people may look down on you. You have to prepare yourself for that," Sofia stated with full of seriousness.


    Even if she had never been involved in a relationship, from the perspective of having sufficient wealth in the past, she was fully aware that at some point Claire''s social standing would be an issue.


    She had already met Clark''s parents and even though the two had been hospitable to them at that time of their meeting, she could sense their aloofness within their warm treatment.


    She knew that there was a reservation of their friendliness.


    But this kind of judgment was only possible because she had also been at the peak level of her success before. Such attitude was understandable.


    "I don''t mean to discourage you, Claire. In fact, I will be one of your supporters if you become a couple. And if people started to question if you are the right girl for Clark, we will prove to them that they should not judge you," Sofia gave her a sympathetic smile.


    "Hmm, thank you, Sof! I will work hard," Claire responded with full of optimism.


    This kind of attitude made Sofia admired their youthful age. The age where there was nothing seemed impossible in reaching their dreams.


    "Yes, any way you have me. You can count on me," Sofia assured her.


    "Ahh, I''m moved to tears! Of course I will always need your support! You better not get tired of me!" Claire dramatically frowned her brows while wiping the side of her eyes.


    "Tsk! Let''s change our outfit now and go to that party! Don''t be so dramatic!" Sofia chuckled.


    "Alright!" Now, what should I wear?" Claire asked.


    "A simple dress and sandals? As long as it''s decent. We are junior students. Surely they won''t expect us to wear a lavish attire!" Sofia responded with a kind smile.


    "Okay!" Claire rushed towards her room.


    Sofia just stared at the retreating figure of the lady until she vanished from her sight. A small curve lingered on her lips before she moved her feet towards her room.


    After entering the door, she stretched her body and quickly made a coffee. Then, she opened her phone and checked all the unread emails and messages in her inbox.


    There were not too many. Brent from the Lee Gaming squad congratulated their group. WINS from the FAB_Gamers also did the same.


    Then, she also noticed the response coming from Jing Jing.


    It was just one word ending with an ellipsis but this reply held so much meaning.


    From Sis Jing: Okay...


    Sofia combed her hair and softly laughed still staring at the message from Jing Jing. She had seen this type of response from the lady too many times in her last life. The only difference was that, it usually had her name on it.


    Her line of sight moved towards her glass table, which showed the reflection of her face. She sighed and looked down a little longer.


    Sofia could not help but stare at her reflection. Countless thoughts crossed her mind while looking at the face.


    "This youthful face... The new identity... I still have a vague memory of my last life," Sofia murmured before she took a sip of her coffee.


    A loud sigh escaped from her mouth before she gathered her back upward and leaned on her chair. She then opened her phone again. This time, she took a peek at the hype of social media.


    Her fingers navigated towards the trending topics and she saw that the Chronos squad was still on the top 1 trending.


    "Jing Jing''s company had done well!" she complimented after seeing the design of their page and the wholesome posts that were published a few hours ago.


    Her eyes landed on the time displayed above her phone. It was 7:30 PM.


    "Ah! Since when did the time go fast?" Sofia frowned.


    She quickly placed her phone on the table and dashed towards the bathroom.


    After thirty minutes, she was all set and waited for Claire to come into her room.


    This had been their routine. Claire would usually go up to her unit while she just waits. But then, she realized that the lady may have trouble finding an outfit. After all, her friend just got asked by Clark!


    Without wasting her time, she moved down and sprinted towards the apartment of Claire.


    As she knocked on the door, Claire instantly appeared and took a peek at her.


    "Hehe, Sof, I put some make-up!" Claire stated while holding an eyelash curler in her hand.


    "Yeah, that''s a good color of choice! And the boys may tease the two of you later. So, it''s better if you place blush on," Sofia gazed at Claire with an approval look on her face. Knowing that her friend would also have this kind of reaction, it was safe for her to really place makeup.


    "Thanks! I should be ready by now! Let''s go!" Claire grabbed a small purse and placed her phone inside.


    "I thought you are having a hard time choosing a dress!" Sofia joked while looking at Claire locking her unit.


    "Nah! I only have two dresses, what''s so hard to choose? It''s either this one or that white one! And I think this one is more appropriate, right?" Claire gestured as she turned around. The purple dress she wore flutter perfectly in the process.


    "It looked good on you!" Sofia nodded and gave Claire a thumbs up.


    "Your outfit looks good on you too, Sof! But is it that you are just wearing lipstick? Don''t you want to wear more make-up?" Claire asked.


    "I ordered this dress online!" Sofia lightly laughed. She was wearing a combination of red dress accentuated with red fabric.


    "And your makeup?" Claire emphasized.


    "Tsk! The civilians in my face might become rebellious if I place foundation and other products on my face," Sofia shrugged.


    By now, Claire had completely understood what her friend meant. Sofia was afraid that her pimples would worsen if she put other beauty products on her face.

 Chapter 110 - What Look?

    "I remembered once... during our freshman, you got a big pimple on the middle of your forehead, yet, you did not complain about it! Why are you so affected by these smaller ones now? These pimples are hiding in your jawline," Claire casually asked while laughing with Sofia. Since her friend became very conscious about her appearance, she could not help but also include this attitude in her list of Sofia''s changes.


    The sound of their feet echoed the entire place as they walked towards the exit area of the place.


    "Well, this civilization of pimples must be prevented now that we are getting older. Otherwise, it may leave few scars on my face!" Sofia shrugged. She almost cursed the original owner of the body she was in. The past owner of her body only thought of nothing but gaming! That youngster was really not having any self-care.


    "It''s not that bad, Sof. At least, your pimples are like tiny dots and they are just in one place," Claire comforted her.


    Sofia went silent for a while. In her mind, women, no matter what the age must be very particular with their appearance. In her past life, she only thinks of two things. Her grades and her appearance.


    Unlike the original owner of her body, she was the perfect daughter of her parents in her last life.


    Now, she was compelled not only to get that appearance and grade that she had on her last life but also her level of success. And if there would be an opportunity for her to surpass it she would aim for the highest.


    It may sound ridiculous to others but to Sofia, she needed to surpass what she had once achieved in her last life. Why? It was too simple. Because she had all the knowledge she needed to go beyond her capabilities.


    There was no way she would let this new chance to live be wasted. She must see the result in her goals!


    "Yeah, they just like this area of my face," Sofia giggled while pointing to the side of her jawline.


    "Sof, remember when I told you earlier that it felt like you are possessed by a wealthy ghost. I really think that you are. Like now... it feels like you are obsessed with getting rid of these pimples! Only those rich kids do that. Our kind does not really care about how we look! Unless..." Claire stated and deliberately not finished her sentence.


    "Unless what?" Sofia questioned.


    "Unless you are like me. Hehe, maybe there is a man that made you felt the need to look at your appearance?" Claire suggested.


    "What nonsense!" Sofia pouted her lips and shook her head.


    "Okay, so it''s not a man. Then, you are really possessed by a rich ghost!" Claire insisted.


    "What rich ghost are you talking? You are overthinking, Claire! If I''ll be possessed with a wealthy ghost, I will definitely find the riches of this ghost and use it!" Sofia joked.


    "I hope I am just overthinking, Sof. But all your actions recently were far from how you act before!" Claire defended.


    "People can change even in a span of one night! I have changed my goals and aspirations," Sofia gave subtle remarks hoping that Claire would not press further.


    "That might be true. Anyway, don''t be so secure with that civilization of pimple," Claire finally yielded. Even she was not also convinced of her observations.


    "Yes! Soon, I''ll have them evicted! Just a few days of regular sleep will definitely make this civilization go extinct." Sofia declared with full of certainty that she will achieve good clear skin once she got plenty of rest.


    Out of a sudden, two other young people had entered the building. These two gone past them and overheard what Sofia said. They instantly halted their steps and frowned. After a few breaths, the two young people gave Sofia a weird look.


    "OMG! Those people are scared with what just said, Sof!" Claire secretly told the message to Sofia. Then she glanced back at the two young people which continued to give Sofia weird glances.


    "It''s not a civilization extinction. It''s just some pimples we are talking about! No civilizations are harmed in this conversation!," Claire called the two young people to put their minds straight.


    "Hehe, it''s fine. I was just joking with my friend!" Sofia told the strangers when they remained to stare at them.


    After a while, the two continued to walk to the familiar lobby of their building until they went out.


    Inside the building, the two strangers that they casually talked about were almost jumping in excitement.


    "Ohh my gosh! Those were the gamers that won the tournament, right?" one teenager expressed animatedly.


    "Yes! There is no doubt! Those are the tank and assassin users of the Chronos squad! Wow! They lived in this building?! Nice, nice!" the other teenager grinned cheekily.


    These two strangers had also watched the tournament. They just arrived from the gym and could not believe what they had discovered. T


    Their reaction had gone late. Just as they want to speak and mingle with Sofia and Claire, their figure had already gone out of the building.


    "AHH! I hope there will be another time that we meet them!"


    "Well, if they really live in this building, then, we have a great chance to meet them!"


    "True. Let''s keep this discovery a secret. If other people will know of their place, they might change their address!"


    "You are right. Let''s keep this between us!"


    At that time, Sofia and Claire never really thought about their status in district 7. They just acted like normal students and approached the strangers. They even thought that those two youngsters were staring because they overheard Sofia''s statement about annihilation.


    What they did not know was that those two youngsters stared at them because they looked very familiar. And when the two youngsters realized their identity, they were also gone on their sight!


    It was just in that Clark''s car also pulled over few feet away from them,


    "Hey!" Clark greeted them as the window opened and then he gleefully waved his hand.


    "Right on time!" Sofia stated.


    The driver opened the door for them and the two quickly went inside.


    "I went to pick Stephen and Joey first. Hehe," Clark said while glancing at the expensive watched attached to his wrist.


    "They are asleep?" Claire raised her brow after seeing the two men were indeed sleeping peacefully.


    Clark also yawned and nodded his head. "Yeah, the championship had taken all of our energy. I''m surprised that you are not yet exhausted."


    "Oh... " Claire could only trail her words upon realizing how extensive the preparation of these men. All of them had equally practiced but her teammates had really put up everything in their match.


    On the other hand, Claire was already adept in playing the assassin role. so, among the five members of the Chronos squad, she was not really pressured in the tournament.


    To say, her beautiful performance in the game come out naturally.


    Sofia had guided them with the strategies and tactics of their gameplay. But she does not really look as tired as Joey and Stephen. Although she had done most of the preparation and practiced with her teammates, she was used to working under pressure. The matter was just a piece of cake to her.


    As for the three men, they were just mostly restless because of excitement.


    Sofia glanced at the road as the street lights and highlighted the heart-shaped balloons that were tied on the street post.


    "Happy Valentines Day, guys!" Sofia curled her lips into a genuine smile. It seemed that this occasion was really overshadowed by the tournament.


    Joey and Stephen stirred from their peaceful slumber and heard her greeting. Together, they instantly murmured, "Happy Valentines Day to us!"


    "Wow! we fell asleep!?" Joey exclaimed with a little surprise in his tone while glancing at Stephen. His eyes were still half-open.


    "Yeah! We did!" Stephen yawned then looked at Sofia with a smiling face. His expression looked more innocent, especially that his eyes were openly staring at Sofia with a different level of intensity.


    "When we arrived at the victory party, don''t stare with the other guest like that," Sofia softly told Stephen with a stern expression on her face.


    The man leaned near to her and then whispered to her ear, "You''ll get jealous? Hmmm,"


    "What? You are dreaming!" Sofia casually laughed.


    "No need to be jealous. I won''t look at anyone there," Stephen mumbled with his gentle voice.


    "It''s not like that. Haha. Definitely not! It is rude if you stare at the other guest with that kind of look, Stephen!" Sofia explained.


    "What kind of look?" Stephen peered at her as his eyes started to close again.


    "Hmmn... like you want to devour something," Sofia directly said without thinking too much. In her mind, she was just describing what Stephen''s look was. She was not really giving this a much thorough thought of whether such look was connected to her.

 Chapter 111 - First Mention Of The Chronos Corporation

    "Devour! Ehem, I have that look on my face, Sof? Mmmn..." Stephen furrowed his brows and pretended to be ignorant as he asked Sofia. He gently shook his head as if removing some of his sleepiness. The sharpness of his gaze intensified as he looked at her in the eye.


    Sofia''s eyes widened feeling a little bit nervous by how this boy stared at her. For her who had the perfect confidence in the world, she never thought that his gaze was enough to make her heart beat faster.


    "You do have that expression earlier. It''s gone now! And I''m serious, it''s rude to boldly stare like that to anyone in the party later," Sofia murmured. Then, she adjusted her sitting position and moved a little bit farther away from Stephen. Unfortunately, the space was very limited and there was really not much for her to move.


    ''Why do I sound like an aunt!'' she mentally lamented after realizing what she just told Stephen.


    "I would not contest on what you think, Sof. That could be true,"  Stephen openly said with a cute pout on his lips. However, Sofia was too oblivious to his message.


    If their companions had paid them even a little attention, they would have realized that Stephen was starting to tease Sofia. Flirting to be exact. But then again, this group was mostly engaged in playing. They might not sense the difference in Stephen''s tone.


    In addition, Clark and Claire were already immersed in their own world. The two started to watch something on Claire''s phone and were minding their own business.


    As for Joey, his eyes were already close as he returned to his slumber. The man was even snoring lightly as his head leaned stiffly on the headrest.


    "Yeah, yeah! I can''t blame you, we haven''t properly eat our dinner," Sofia suddenly said.


    Upon hearing her words, Stephen could now help but frown. The lady had switched their conversation to food!


    "Uhuh... maybe?" he awkwardly responded.


    "If you are starving, we can have dinner at the party," Sofia shrugged and blamed the time for the expression that Stephen showed to her earlier.


    "Haha... I''m not that hungry. But I will eat good food later. The venue of the victory party have a great dish to offer," Stephen responded with a dry laugh. By his tone, it would seem that he had already been in such place that he was familiar with their food.


    Sofia nodded her head and looked at the other two companions. Then, she took a deep breath as the car made a left turn.


    "Guys, I have some random questions for all of you. With the earning that we gained and will be gaining, I need to know what are your future plans," Sofia suddenly asked the team.


    This time, her mind was set to make preparations and considerations.


    Such questions were totally unexpected for they were in the car running in the middle of the hi-way.


    But, for Sofia, the earlier she knew what her teammates want to pursue, the easier she could make preparations for their investments.


    She cannot just spend the money that they gained and use it for her interests only.


    Although she was certain that she would make a profit in her own way, it would be too selfish for her to do. She was never selfish even in her last life.


    As a woman of her caliber, she planned to equally divide their profits and bring the group to success with her.


    "That''s really a random question, Sof!" Clark looked up at her.


    "Yes! Haha, but I had to know your aspirations apart from gaming. Playing pro tournaments is a fleeting career. Once our age hits the prime, we will need to retired and let the younger generation play," Sofia reminded her team. She was certain that the group also knew this fact about playing online. Mostly, players retired from the pro scene after reaching 25 years old. By then, they must have a solid plan to switch their career.


    "I have not thought too much about what I want to take. As long as I can surpass my parent''s fortune, I''ll follow your advice, Sof!" Clark expressed with confidence in his tone.


    "Ohh? Then, my advice is to follow what you want to do?" Sofia instantly answered.


    "Hehehe, besides playing, I actually love cooking also. Hehe," Clark stated with a gentle smile on his face.


    "Cooking! That''s great, Clark!" Sofia clapped her hand and gave the man an encouraging look.


    "Yes, sometimes, I cook in my house," Clark admitted. "I''ll let you taste my cooking one day!" he added.


    "I''m looking forward for that day! Claire would be flattered too! Hehe" Sofia gave her friend a subtle signal.


    "Yes! I will wait for that day! I also like cooking. But, I want to do programming more. There is so much potential in IT. I know you knew about what I am talking, Sof!" Claire enthusiastically responded.


    Stephen saw that Sofia''s gaze landed on him. At that time, a silly thought crossed his mind. ''I want you.'' Such words were suppressed on the tip of his tongue. Threatening to be spoken out.


    He was subconsciously grinning while thinking of what he should say.


    "What are your future plans, Stephen? Why are you smiling like that?" Sofia wondered as she fixed her expression into a more serious one.


    "I can''t tell you yet. But I do have one goal, for now, Sof. I just need to wait for the right time to make this goal be mine!" Stephen directly replied.


    "Ehh? That''s some sort of mysterious planning you have, bro!" Clark reacted after hearing Stephen''s response. Stephen just gave a small smile and shrugged.


    "Okay... well, inform me soon if you have changes in what you want to pursue. Food establishment is a good investment to start. And Claire, you are right! There is great potential in IT. We can also find a way to invest our money in this area," Sofia told them.


    "How about you, Sof? What are your plans?" Stephen suddenly asked. Since the lady was asking for their future plans, then, it was only fair for him to know what Sofia wanted to do in the future.


    "At the very least, I want to be successful. And I want to see you guys, successful too," Sofia replied softly. The way she tilted her head made her companions see that she was making a deep consideration about their team.


    "Then, which field do you want to pursue? I know that success is everywhere," Stephen probed further.


    ''Success is everywhere!'' Such words struck Sofia''s mind. She knew that Stephen had almost got removed from their school. Yet, the man had actually the same mindset as her!


    "That''s true! Success can be found in any form. But, I''ll go to the corporate world. I''ll pursue business. Maybe the five of us can create a corporation when we got sufficient resources. It''s too early to say this but if you guys are all with me in creating a corporation, let''s do it!" Sofia responded.


    "Corporate world? Yes! We should aim for that!" Stephen quickly supported.


    "Fromt the Chronos squad to the Chronos Corporation. That really sounds so perfect! Let''s build one when we have enough resources!" Clark''s eyes sparkled in excitement. He started to imagine how their squad would one day turned into a full corporation.


    "Yes, I love that name! But, is it really possible for us to make a company? I mean, we are just students right now. I think only those who have great family backgrounds can do it!" Claire looked at Sofia with a slight worry on her face.


    Sofia smiled. "If they can do it, we can too! It''s mostly up to our guts to start a business. And then, our determination to success will show the result."


    She could not tell to these four members that she was too familiar with how to engage in the corporate world.


    With her mentality, Sofia understood Claire''s concern. They had the burning passion to succeed. To stand at the peak. But the path that they would need to take would surely be a narrow one. It would be hard to get there.


    But with Sofia''s experience in her last life, she was confident that they could dodge failures along their way.


    "We will build our company... maybe a chain of businesses. Clark can manage his restaurant. You, Claire, can go with IT. I''ll see if I could go with the real estate," Sofia told them. These two looked at each other with full of dreamy looks. It was as if, Sofia had laid down and made their goals valid.


    After which, Sofia glanced at Stephen, "Just tell me which career do you want to pursue?"


    "I''ll go with the business," Stephen easily said. It was evident that he just copied Sofia''s plan. However, the lady gave her an approving look.


    "Good! Go with business! How about Joey?" Sofia glanced at the man but Joey had fallen back to sleep.


    "He wanted to join the national team of basketball. But, he was injured and could not fight. So, I don''t know if he made new plans for his future," Stephen said.


    "Alright. If he likes basketball, but cannot play, he could do coaching?" Sofia suggested.


    "That''s also possible," Stephen responded just in time as they reached their destination.

 Chapter 112 - A Subtle Guidance

    The Rrad Hotel, District 7


    The warm and dimmed lightings in the entrance gave off a sensual vibe of the entire hotel lobby. It was calming for the few guests sitting in the waiting area. The ambiance around was properly themed to the motif of the entire decoration of the hotel.


    Such a scenery welcomed Sofia''s gaze while the car pulled over.


    ''Not bad!'' she mentally made a note as if giving the hotel a review for the decor they had placed.


    Her eyes made a quick scan of the entire place before their driver swiftly opened the car door.


    "We are here, young master Clark. Please enjoy the night. I will pick you up at 10 pm. This is the order of your father," the driver bent his body slightly as he reminded Clark of the time he needed to get back.


    Clark nodded in acknowledgment, "I''ll see you later!"


    Red balloons accentuated with white ones filled on the ceiling, giving the vibrance of the occasion of the night. Most people who were falling in line towards to front desk were couples in their twenties to mid-thirties and forties.


    "This is my first time coming here!" Claire stated while admiring the place.


    "A lot of first time had been happening to me today! Hehe," Joey stated while he examined the entrance area.


    On the wall of the establishment, there were three heart banners, and four human-sized letters that could be read as "LOVE" were placed on the entrance door with a cupid sitting above. Few pairs took selfies on the post.


    There was also a piece of romantic music playing in the background, providing all the people around this place the most soothing ambiance of valentines.


    "Miss Sofia!" A voice called out from a corner just a few feet away from the front desk.


    Sofia and her friends looked around the direction and saw the familiar face of Jing Jing.


    "You''ve come!" Sofia greeted and sprinted forward. The other four figures were trailing behind her.


    For a brief moment, the two shook their hands and exchanged a friendly smile.


    "I had nothing better to do anyway. I might as well enjoy the food in this place!" Jing Jing giggled.


    Her expression was too refreshing for Sofia to see that she stared at the lady for a long time.


    "Is there something wrong with my face?" Jing Jing called her out when she felt comfortable with how the teenager scrutinized her. It was as if the gaze of Sofia had almost pierced right through her deepest soul.


    "No! You look stunning!" Sofia gathered her composure and complimented her.


    "Haha, I was on a budget this month but I brought this pink dress online! There was a sale and I couldn''t help myself. I just had to buy the dress!" Jing Jing beamed with a pang of small guilt in her eyes.


    "Hello, sis Jing!" Claire greeted when Jing Jing landed her attention at her.


    Jing Jing moved closer to her and whispered, "The shade of your eye shadow is perfect! Good choice."


    Claire''s smile widened upon hearing the compliment but she did not speak anymore.


    "Boys, you look good! No date for tonight, eh?" Jing Jing joked when she glanced at Joey, Stephen, then Clark.


    "Hehe, this is our group date!" the three guys said in synchrony.


    "Ohh, yeah! Let''s go then. But before that, let''s take some pictures of you here on that background and also here. I''m sure your fans would love to see you guys in this," Jing Jing quickly suggested.


    She had arrived about five minutes earlier than the group. Instead of going directly to the exact location of the party, she decided to wait for them at the entrance.


    At first, she felt a little bitter seeing the design of the lobby. Although she had ignored all the unfortunate events she had gone through earlier that day, it still affected her view on the romantic vibe of the place. She could not appreciate the decor no matter how great it looked.


    But after she caught the figure of Sofia when the Chronos squad arrived, Jing Jing was compelled by the idea of getting a picture for this group. It would be perfect not for the squad to greet their fans too!


    "Sis Jing, don''t stand in the ceremony! Join us, just use your front camera!" Sofia told her and then slightly pulled her arm closer to them.


    "Ohh, no, no! I don''t think your fans would appreciate me in your photo. I''ll just take the picture," Jing Jing shyly replied.


    "No way! The viewers would love to look at you for sure, sis Jing. No one will hate you! Just join us!" Sofia insisted.


    "Yes, Miss Jing! Hehe, with your beauty, we will gain more fans!" Joey joked. But it was actually true that Jing Jing had several loyal fans and followers. The majority of the district also knew her very well.


    "Okay, okay!" Jing Jing casually swiped the screen of her phone and changes the settings to the front cam.


    After finding a right angle for them, Jing Jing snapped a photo. One after another, she took dozens of pictures with the group. The group finally took a few seconds to breathe from their photoshop session.


    "Uhmm, Miss Jing, can I trouble you to take a picture me of Claire too?" Clark suddenly requested. He then took Claire''s hand and the two of them stood on the side of the human-sized letters.


    "Awe sure!" Jing Jing moved her camera to the two and then smiled widely. "You guys are perfect!" she casually commented before snapping a photo.


    After several minutes, Sofia glanced at her watch and noticed that it was almost time for the party to start.


    "Guys, let''s go!" she called maintaining a graceful smile on her face.


    "Ohh, right! Let''s go!" The group agreed and went to the entrance.


    Stephen moved closer beside Sofia while Clark and Claire were pairing already. As for Joey, he was looking around not paying much attention to anyone in particular.


    "So, in this victory party, some organizers may ask you personal questions," Jing Jing started. She felt obliged to remind them since the group was newly formed and that they still lacked experience. In her mind, it was better to give them some tips about the talks revolving in the party.


    "Oh, man! I thought we will just be eating at this party!" Joey groaned as if he felt troubled. "Can we just have a peaceful night after winning?"


    "Ohh, now that you are a public figure, your peaceful nights had been officially ended!" Jing Jing told him.


    The realization suddenly struck in Joey''s face. That''s right! They chose the path of being an online celebrity. At some point, they really need to sacrifice something.


    "Ohhh... this is really real!" Joey mumbled.


    "No bro, you are dreaming! Go back to sleep!" Clark playfully chirped gaining faint giggles from the rest.


    "Nah, this victory party is organized for the different media to familiarize you. The people behind the event would also express their joy for your winning. And also to celebrate the overall success of the tournament. You guys need to mingle to everyone, once we arrived at the venue," Jing Jing explained while they continued to walk in the lobby of the hotel.


    "What kind of personal question would they be asking to us? Will it be hard questions? Miss Jing, please give us some ideas," Claire initiated as she felt a little anxious.


    "Please help us. We are not so confident yet in speaking in front of the media!" Joey joined Claire.


    "Hmm, yes! I will give you ideas!" Jing Jing stated. "So, they might ask for your goals, ambitions as well as your plans in the prize money that you got for being the champion of this tournament."


    "Ahhh!" Clark trailed and glanced at Sofia with a meaningful look.


    Didn''t Sofia already had a discussion with them about the matters concerning their future plans? Was it just a coincidence that she randomly asked her members about their aspirations in the future?


    Of course not!


    With her last life experience, Sofia knew that this matter would be the subject of discussion the entire night in the party.


    To say, she had already anticipated it the moment they were invited.


    Since they were teenagers that had just gained such an amount of prize money, it was expected for the older people to be interested in what they would be doing on it. Everyone would surely be looking at how they would spend the amount that they obtained.


    One way or another, the people that they will be mingling with would ask one or two questions about their plans.


    This way, Sofia made a subtle briefing of her teammate. Their group was fully synchronized about their goals.


    Unlike Jing Jing who was blunt about giving them the tips of what would be the expected questions, Sofia was giving her four members the guidance without even them knowing about it.


    "Ehem, it is good that we have talked about it earlier!" Sofia chirped after noticing that her friends had gone silent.


    "Ohh yeah? If you have talked about it, then, you guys are all set to mingle and answer the questions there!" Jing Jing stated and did not notice the slight changes of the expression from the group.

 Chapter 113 - Hot And Smart

    "Ohh, here is the Chronos squad! Guys! Glad to see your group here! I''m the organizer of this party!" A man in his early thirty called and approached Sofia as their group arrived at the exact venue of the victory party.


    His perfectly combed hair was the first thing that the group noticed as it looked shinier than the lightings around the hall. The man also offered a generous smile as he scanned all the six people in front of her.


    ''Although they are wearing a casual outfit, they looked pretty decent. Ah, after all, they are still studying,'' He secretly made a quick assessment of the teenager''s dresses.


    "Hello, it''s our pleasure to be here! Thank you for having us!" Sofia responded towards the man with gracefulness. Her tone was neither soft nor stern. But it was enough for the man to pull out from his reverie and focus on Sofia.


    "Ohh, I like your manners, sister!" the man beamed after noticing Sofia''s way of communicating.


    He had been entertaining several champions before and most of the players usually gave him an arrogant look. Something that perhaps the players take pride in winning the tournament.


    However, he could not sense any arrogance within Sofia''s tone. In an instant, the man proclaimed his liking to her.


    Joey and Stephen looked at each other and shared a knowing look. They were startled when the man called Sofia a ''sister'' but then, after noticing the way this man walked, they immediately realized that he had a feminine gesture that cannot be ignored.


    His hips and arms extended differently every time he moved. The extension on her eyelashes also confirmed their thoughts.


    "I am Toni! As you know, I am part of the LGBTQ," the man extended his arm and offered a handshake.


    "Loud and proud!" Sofia gave him a genuine smile.


    "Oh, yes!!! Loud and proud, sister!" Toni repeated and even raised his arms in the air and slightly waved it in a form of cheering.


    "Please to meet you, Toni. I am Sofia, and my teammates," Sofia paused to shook the man''s hand and then gestured at Jing Jing. "I believe you know Miss Jing?"


    Upon hearing Sofia''s query, recognition instantly flashed on his sparkling eyes confirming that he knew Jing Jing.


    Sofia did not directly introduce Jing Jing by her name.


    She could do it but it was intentional that she asked the man first about her.


    This way, she moved their conversation to another level by asking the man if he knew Jing Jing. And they would not be left into an awkward silence.


    The awkward silence was very common when two strangers meet for the first time. But when the proper way of conversing, it could be easily avoided. And Sofia knew exactly how to do it.


    "Ohh, yes! I know about this famous media personality! Hello, Miss Jing Jing!!!" Toni expressed with enthusiasm. Then, he hugged Jing Jing as if they were real friends.


    "Hi!" Jing Jing hugged the man back. "I like your nails, Toni!" she added as a compliment.


    The man subconsciously waved his hand and displayed all long nails polished with an expensive crimson red.


    "Ohh, thank you! I got them yesterday. You know, for this occasion!" the man laughed and winked at her. His tone gave off another meaning beyond the words that he just said,


    "Yes! That''s great for the occasion!" Jing Jing responded with a chuckle. She happened to grasp what the man was pointing since they were in the same generation.


    A small smile also curved on Sofia''s lips but she did not make a comment about it. She was also mindful of her present age. It would be too appropriate if she joined in their conversation.


    "Miss Jing Jing is the one handling the Chronos squad''s private press, Toni. But she is here not as a media personality. Rather, she is our guest. I invited her," Sofia easily added to emphasize the significance of Jing Jing in their group.


    "I see! That''s so nice! Your group is in great hands!" Toni responded glancing at Sofia and Jing Jing back and forth


    "Awe, thank you! That''s nice of you to compliment our company!" Jing Jing muttered.


    "It''s true! Anyway, I have reserved a table for your group in the front area. Come! The food is already served in buffet style. So, just grab any food on that area," Toni said and pointed the are where the food was placed.


    The Seaside Function Hall was an ideal place for any type of party as the space was wider than the other function halls.


    Despite the romantic ambiance of the Rrad Hotel lobby and hallways, once they entered the function hall all the ambiance was changed into that of the gaming theme.


    There were several posters of different characters on the walls and a large projector was also playing certain gameplay from pro games on the screen.


    The decorative red balloons on the corridor were substituted with blue and gold inside this hall. This was the main color of the game logo, adding a perfect theme to the entire gaming vibe.


    Toni guided the group into a circular table with eight empty seats available. "Even the table clothing was also color blue," Sofia casually commented.


    "Yes! I had this hall designed to follow the logo of the game. And I heard that the Chief Technology Officer of the game will be joining us. So, I need to impress him, sister!" Toni whispered in excitement.


    "It is rare to have bigshots to attend the event and party," Sofia nodded.


    "That''s true! And that Chief Technology Officer is not just some bigshot! He is young and single!" Toni almost squealed like a girl.


    "Yes, we have met Mr. Washington earlier in the game. He is young, maybe around mid-twenties?" Sofia stated and glanced at her group.


    Clark pulled a chair for Claire and the two sat.


    "I''ll get us food. What do you guys want for the starter?" Joey asked.


    "Take your food. We will grab ours later," Stephen nudged him in the shoulder before the man sat.


    "Oh, then, I''ll just get it later," Joey stated as he slumped his back on the chair.


    On the other side, Toni''s eyes widened before he playfully nudged Sofia in the shoulder. "AHHH!!! Sister, you''ve seen him? How does he look like? I heard he is still a bachelor!"


    At this point, Toni''s eyes twinkled and his expression resembled that of a dreamy look. All the Chronos squad could easily tell that this man may have a massive crush on the Chief Technology Officer of the game.


    With the expression that this party organizer, all the teenagers looked at him in a different view. He was like an open book. The emotions were all written on his face.


    Sofia opened her mouth to respond but before she could speak anything a voice from the other table had beat her chance.


    "You pretty have a good memory for a young lady."


    Everyone turned their attention to the direction of the voice and saw Mr. Greg Washington himself.


    "Oh my gosh! I think I''m gonna faint!" Toni dramatically placed a hand in his chest as if seeing the had overwhelmed his breathing.


    Greg was wearing a dark blue suit. His glasses perfectly accentuated the shape of his face giving the hot and smart aura.


    "Toni and I were just discussing about our first meeting, Mr. Washington," Sofia quickly explained upon realizing that the man had overheard their conversation.


    Her quick response made the man paused for a brief second.


    ''Toni and I?'' Greg thought.


    The way Sofia referred to herself and the man as equal by using his name in the context made it sound like she was a complete adult.


    First, he already saw the expression of Sofia and found it too similar to his friend. Now that she heard her explaining about their casual conversation with the party organizer, it added more points to his suspicion.


    ''Something is off! How can this teenager have this kind of  authoritative and imposing character!'' Greg mentally exclaimed.


    When Sofia noticed that the man''s expression changed, she also realized that she badly slipped.


    She should have called Toni not by his name for they are not familiar! It was just a habit of her in the past to use the names of the people she knew to build a rapport.


    But, now that she was much younger, it was expected that she had to use some honorifics to address the people around her.


    Perhaps, it was because they were caught in the act by the man talking about him that she was in a rush to clear any possible misunderstanding.


    "Ehem, it''s good to meet you again... s-sir!" Sofia slightly bowed and adjusted her tone to a more polite one.


    "Good to see you here too," Greg responded coldly before he turned around and took a seat.


    "He is definitely hot!" Toni muttered in excitement. He lowered his voice so that only Sofia could hear him.


    "Ehehe, you are right!" Jing Jing joined them as she happened to hear Toni''s remarks.

 Chapter 114 - Planning To Build Connections

    After several minutes of exchanging formalities, Toni excused himself and left Sofia''s table.


    "Miss Sofia, I have uploaded all the pictures that we took earlier on the official page of the Chronos squad," Jing Jing reported while showing the teenager the screen of her phone that displayed the pictures.


    "Sis Jing, you work so hard. Please, just enjoy the party," Sofia chuckled while her mind drifted to the past events of her last life.


    During that time, when she was the respected CEO, her secretary was the most easy and flexible to work with.


    No matter what time she needed her, the secretary was always available. Sometimes, if they were required to fly at midnight for some out-of-town conference, the secretary would never complain and just work with her efficiently.


    There was no other employee that she knew who worked like Jing Jing. That''s why, when she saw her outside the gym earlier that morning, she deliberately gave the lady her contact information.


    "Ahh! It''s fine. Today is Valentine''s day. So this picture must be uploaded on this occasion for the viewers to relate with your squad," Jing Jing explained.


    She was aware that Sofia was not requiring her to post the pictures right away. She also thought of posting it the next day.


    However, Jing Jing reflected that if it would be posted the next day, their delay may affect the engagements and views of their post. Hence, she was willing to go the extra mile and designed infographics together with the photos she had taken.


    "Sister Jing, you will surely reach the peak of success. I can see that you are working really hard and you are sincere with your work," Sofia muttered. Her tone was similar to a boss complimenting an employee for her good service.


    "Ohh, haha thank you! Well, they say, do what you love and success will follow eventually. Right now, I just love what I do... so, I don''t really mind if the time is beyond working hours now," Jing Jing answered. For some reason, she understood the meaning behind Sofia''s words. It was indeed meant to praise her for her hard work. But for Jing Jing, it was nothing as she was enjoying what she was doing. So, it was not big of a deal to her.


    "That''s good that you have found your passion!" Sofia stated before she glanced at the entrance of the hall. There were a group of people in their early twenties who were loudly talking as they enter the hall.


    The group was acting as if they owned the entire place. Seeing this kind of attitude made Sofia''s brows knitted while looking at them.


    "Yes, I have loved the media business for now. How about you, Miss Sofia? What is your passion aside from gaming?" Jing Jing asked as she also stared at the noisy group.


    "My passion... hah! It''s still too young for me to decide," Sofia fabricated. Although she knew that what she wanted to do, Jing Jing was still part of the media and not her team. She was careful not to reveal everything to the lady.


    At least, not yet.


    "That''s right! You guys just focus on your study. Soon, you''ll find your passion in life too," Jing Jing nodded her head in understanding.


    "Mmnn, well right now, our passion is gaming," Sofia responded easily.


    On the other side, the loud group was approached by Toni. Perhaps he was reprimanding them for the loud noises they were creating in the entire function hall.


    Sofia looked away and then slightly cast another glance at the chief technology officer. She was tempted to go over to the man''s table and exchange a business card with him.


    Right now, they have to established connections for their squad to grow.


    If it was her in the past, she would have negotiated with this man about the advancement of their software and other issues to fix the game. It was a pity that in her past life, she was not so inclined with gaming. So, she only had few memories of news about online games.


    What she could remember in her last life was that the online game was once aired in the press because of the increased number of map hacks and other cheats. The media made it a big deal as the game had reached billions of users and that the fair gameplay totally became a joke.


    Sofia knew this from her past memory and she felt that it would be useful for her if she gave this information to the man.


    She could perhaps negotiate with the man for certain profit for them to have a preemptive measure of those incidents that she had retained in the fragments of her memories.


    But, she could not bring herself to come at him for the reason that her image as the squad leader may be tainted with controversy.


    People could easily make an issue out of just a simple thing. She was certain that some may give a different meaning once she makes an appointment with the man.


    However, with her capability, she was still waiting and searching for a right timing.


    The Chronos squad may be gamers but there was a great advantage that she had that the other players don''t.


    It was that her soul came from the future. And that, she had already known most of the issues and problems that the game would soon face based on the media report that she had remembered.


    Therefore, if she could present such an issue to the developer before it happened, her squad may secure a profit from it.


    When Jing Jing noticed that Sofia was in a deep trance, she also busied herself by checking some of the comments on the Chronos official page.


    "I''ll get food now," Claire announced and looked at Sofia as well as the others. Her eyes wandered briefly to the other guest and just observed their movements.


    To say, Claire was very observant in real life. Not only in the game that she played as the assassin role, but this character was also really within her.


    Even with the changes in Sofia''s behavior, she was still observing her friend.


    "Let''s go together, Claire!" Clark stood first and joined Claire. He was just waiting for the lady to move.


    Claire nodded in agreement and the two did not wait for their companions to speak. They turned around and walked away.


    "Aiyaa, these two are doing PDA even if they have not yet claimed their relationship as official. Does this means that if they become officially a couple we will be drowned with their public display of affection?!" Joey scoffed as he also walked behind them.


    He slightly shook his head and glanced at Stephen. But after seeing that his friend was also paying attention to Sofia, Joey proceeded to move on his own. He could only release a long sigh and did not complain anymore.


    Stephen waited for Sofia but she looked as if she was in deep thought. The lady was still devising a plan of how she could establish a connection with the gaming company. She knew that she can easily do it but she had to pick a timing to open up her ideas.


    "Sof, I''ll get you food. You can stay here and rest. What do you like to have?" Stephen softly asked after a while of waiting for the lady.


    Sofia finally looked at him as if she just realized that the man was staring at her.


    "Uhm, let''s get some. I''ll decide once I see the food there. Sis Jing, let''s grab our food!" Sofia stated. She set aside all her plans and just focused on the food first.


    "Yes, yes! It''s better to get the food now that the guests are not yet flocking the main buffet table!" Jing Jing commented and put her phone away.


    Their table was left empty however, there was a small note at the center with scribbled words.


    "Reserved for the Champions!"


    This note had successfully prevented another guest to occupy their table. Hence, they did not leave anything and just went towards the food area directly.


    Many attendees of the event started to arrive and one figure instantly caught their attention. The man looked charming yet there was an aura of loneliness surrounding his table.


    He sat there at the table all by himself.


    "We are so lucky to see Mr. Washington in person!"


    "Girl, this man is single and rich! What if he accidentally likes me? OMG!"


    "Geez! You ladies are dreaming! Obviously, with this man''s handsome face, I''m sure that he has plenty of girlfriends!"


    "Tsk! What girlfriend? Sister, today is Valentine''s Day! If the man is in a relationship, he would not attend this tournament and party!"


    A prominent figure like Mr. Greg Washington made almost all the attending guests in the Seaside Function Hall be careful of how they behave.


    But most of the ladies could not help but secretly engaged in chitchats of how good-looking the man was.


    This was the very first time that a big shot would join them all the way until the victory party.


    It was too rare to meet a formidable person like him and all of them understood how important the man was.

 Chapter 115 - The Fathers Wrath

    The victory party was officially presented by Toni''s announcement. The man displayed great professionalism in introducing all the present personalities inside the hall. He was also witty during the introductory speeches that made everyone laugh and get a comfortable mood to start the party.


    By then, Sofia and the Chronos squad was done picking their food and was about to get back to their table. There were only three waiters situated in assessing them at the food area.


    The man introduced Greg and the Chronos squad first before he proceeded to the flow of his program.


    Blinding flashes from cameras of different media were all around the hall. However, these press companies did not approach the Chronos squad''s table yet. Since the group was still eating, they patiently waited for them to finish before they take statements from them.


    "I thought that the FDS will be the only press tonight! Thank goodness, there are other invited media companies!" Jing Jing commented. Her hands were busy peeling the shell of the shrimp but she constantly looked around to search for familiar figures. However, there was no one that she could distinguish around.


    "I remember earlier in the gym, before our championship match, that arrogant man was bragging for their exclusive contract between the organizers," Sofia responded and also scanned the place to check if she could see the man.


    "They may have faced their karma by now," Jing Jing stated with a mused expression on her face.


    Truth be told, Drake was summoned by his father to go to their home office early that night. The man was planning on having a date with the staff of his company but when he received a call from his father, he had no choice but to cancel all his reservations.


    When Drake stepped foot on the home office of his father, he was greeted by a flying ashtray that was thrown by the old man. Ashes had flung in the air that made him cover his face.


    Unfortunately, his reflexes at that time were very bad that the object whacked directly on his forehead before it dropped on the floor.


    "Ahh! Father, that hurts! Why did you throw this ashtray at me!" he immediately complained and while his face winced in pain.


    "You useless son! The company had received a direct complaint from the company that is behind the online tournament today! They were complaining about your misdemeanor and they are asking for compensation!" the old man bellowed in anger. The veins in the side of his temple were evident of how furious he was after he read the content of the complaint.


    "Father, those organizers of the tournament had signed an exclusive contract with our company! But, they did not oblige their participants to be interviewed by us! That was too unfair!" Drake instantly expressed his grievance.


    He hoped to get his father''s sympathy however when he looked up, he just saw the old man''s face turned even darker.


    "You are at the right age to know better yet you choose to be this useless! All you do is complain and make troubles for our company!" the old grumbled and then grabbed a cup of tea on his table. Without any warning, he threw the teacup towards his son.


    "Father, I don''t know why you are angry at me! It is me that was being wronged by the organizers of that online tournament! If they had obliged their participants to be interviewed by us, then our ratings would remain at the top!" Drake pleaded. His voice was full of confidence that his father would understand his situation after he explained the incident to him.


    "You still don''t get it! Ahh!!! Why did I have such an incompetent son! I have told you so many times about the contract signing. But you still not applied the important lessons that I had imparted to you!" the old man''s expression turned into a murderous aura. Then, he took a seat and released a long frustrated sigh.


    "Father, I have applied all the lessons in my training. I secured the contract right away. I even made sure that the highest position of the organizers in the event would sign the documents personally!" Drake stated.


    "You have rushed yourself and did not read the content of the contract!" the old man sighed once more. Then his face looked as if he had aged for another decade.


    "Why would I read the documents written! I already know that it is an exclusive contract. So, I did not bother to read it!" Drake admitted. He was too complacent about knowing what the contract was exclusive. This made him believe that he would get all the privileges of getting such a great contract.


    "Hmmph! This is why I never passed my position yet to you Drake. It pained me to see that the only heir of my company would also be the one responsible for our destruction," his father made a face palm and then shook his head in disappointment.


    Hearing these words from his father, Drake''s temper boiled in an instant. He clenched his palm into a fist and gritted his teeth. He had been asking his father for the past three years to give the CEO position to him. However, the old man was still unwilling.


    Drake thought that his old man may have some ultimatum for him to hand over the CEO position. But when he confronted him about it, the old man only told him that he was not yet ready. And that he needed to learn the ways of doing business.


    "Father, why do you vent your anger at me!? You always scold me and told me that I am useless! I have secured the contract already. Yet, just a simple complaint from those bastards made you furious about how I acted in front of them!" Drake talked back giving the man a challenging gaze. For a moment, he had completely forgotten that this man was his father.


    "Securing a contract is one thing. But securing the right content of the contract was the most crucial thing! Now, you act like you know everything! Your behavior was an embarrassment! Make sure you apologize to the gaming company!" the old man demanded. He even gives emphasis to the words ''right content'' for his son to realized his mistakes.


    Too bad for Drake''s father, his son was consumed with anger at that point that he was only focused on his father''s word demanding him to make an apology. He completely missed the real issue that his old man wanted him to realize.


    "Father. I will not go to those organizers and apologize! I refuse to also give an apology statement to them! It was the organizers who had wronged me! They were the ones who did not meet up with the contract!" Drake insisted. The knuckles of his hand had turned white as he clenched his palm tighter.


    The old man closed his eyes for a long time. He gathered all the bit of his patience and mentally reminded himself that the man in front of him was his son.


    If it was just another man, he would never waste his time arguing. But since this man was the future heir of his company, he had to be more tolerant until the man learned to do proper business.


    When the old man opened his eyes again, his expression had become calmer.


    "Drake, come and have a sit. Check this document for me," the old man handed him a white folder containing the files of their contract. It would seem that his son can only understand his lesson if he would spoon-feed the matters to him.


    Drake took the folder and sat on the opposite chair. He then flipped the documents one by one.


    Silence descended upon them as Drake continued to read the files. The old man also busied himself to check the company email.


    In his inbox, there was the one message that he stared at for a while. It was from Mr. Greg Washington.


    This was the exact complaint that was sent to them. Greg was not berating or humiliating their ways in the company. He was simply giving a suggestion that the company should give extra training regarding emotional control and self-discipline.


    Greg also listed all the inappropriate behavior that Drake acted in inside the gym.


    Although it was a public place since they have asked permission to hold their tournament on that venue, other companies must disrespect the staff of the company.


    "Have you finished?" the old man asked when his son became focused in his mobile phone.


    "I have skimmed all the content! This is the exact contract that we have signed," Drake stated proudly.


    "Now, tell me at what clause in the contract obliged all the participants to be interviewed by our company?" the old man questioned.


    "Father, even if it is not here in the content of the file, they should require participants to be interviewed by our company! That is the meaning of an exclusive contract!" Drake easily told his father. Up until now, he had no clue about it all!

 Chapter 116 - Pretentious Apology

    "What did you say?!" The old man almost fainted in anger after hearing how ignorant his son was. No matter how much he wanted to tone down his rage, this son seemed to just not met his expectations for him.


    Even those in school understood how the contract works. Yet, this man who had received proper training from their company was acting as if he was uneducated at all.


    Drake remained silent as he tried to figure out the root of his father''s anger. The man was still clueless. To him, his father was acting unreasonably. He did not even paid attention to his bleeding forehead.


    "Son, you are wrong! That contract," the old man paused. He then extended his arms and snatched the folder from his son. "What''s written in this contract is the only agreement that you have. It does not matter if they call it exclusive or not! Now, if you signed it without checking the content, it would be disastrous!"


    ''Disastrous!'' Drake stared at his father with a confused expression.


    On the other side, the old man gritted his teeth. Seeing his son''s baffled face, the old man''s anger surged once more. And before he could control himself, his hand flew and hit Drake''s head using the folder containing the contract.


    Bonk!


    Bonk!


    Bonk!


    The folder struck at Drake''s head intensifying the pain from his earlier wound in his forehead. The old man was not even satisfied with a single strike and hit him three times!


    Drake hissed in silence before he took a deep breath to endure the stinging sensation from his father''s attack.


    "Father, quell your anger. I don''t even know why you have this unprecedented temper towards me!" Drake glared at the old man. He badly wanted to retaliate however, he was also scared that it may cause his father to intensify his emotion.


    "Drake, I am disappointed at how shallow you have understood how the contract works," the old man shook his head several times. Frustration was evident in his tone.


    "I understand what the contract is! I have a deep understanding of how it works!" Drake insisted as he did not take the hint of his father''s disappointment towards him.


    "Sighs! Forget it! You could have requested for my attorney to come with you to check the documents. Now, we have suffered a great loss. If we don''t compensate the company that you offended, our reputation will be tarnished!" the old man explained. He still believed that his company had a good reputation. Despite the bad rumors that had lingered around them, he chose to approach it with a blind eye.


    "I don''t know what you are talking about! Father, it should be us that need to sue the organizers!" Drake looked down with his brows knitted. His lips formed a thin line and his expression appeared to be in deep thought.


    "If the contract did not say that the company would oblige the participants, then it is natural that they won''t force them! Next time, if you signed a contract, make sure to read the content!" the old man helplessly guided his son.


    "I see," Drake responded without meeting his father''s gaze. This time, he was ashamed to look at him.


    "Now, there is a victory party of the tournament on the Rrad Hotel. Go and apologize to Mr. Washington," his father instructed.


    "I will do as what you say, father!" Drake responded dryly before he hastily left their home office.


    Bad temper was not enough to describe all the emotions that were brewing in Drake''s chest as he drove towards the Rrad Hotel. He had expected to have a good night, but, it would seem that Karma really hits him hard.


    Not only he was scolded by his father, but there was also a bump and small wound on his forehead.


    "Tsk!!! Very good Jing Jing! It seemed that you have the luck this time!" Drake grumbled while the knuckled of his hand turned white from gripping at the steering wheel of his car.


    The traffic light ahead of him flickered at the red signal and he kicked the car brake harshly. It was as if he was a kid having a tantrum and venting all his anger to the poor break. His body even jolted by the abrupt stop but he could not care of it at all.


    Drake was not finished. He punched his seat until his white hand turned red.


    In his mind, he blamed Jing Jing for all the misfortunes that he encountered. There was only one image in his thought that came up every time he thought of this ordeal. It was the image of Jing Jing''s face mocking him.


    After several minutes of driving, Drake reached the parking space of Rrad Hotel. He stayed inside his car for another minute to calm himself before he stepped out.


    Drake easily located the venue of the victory party. He scanned the entire crowd until his gaze landed at Mr. Greg Washington sitting alone on a table.


    He took a deep breath and strode forward with his head held high.


    "Mr. Greg, hello! I''m Drake, from the FDS Press Company," Drake introduced easily.


    As the man looked up, he stared at Drake for a brief second before he shook his head.


    "Hello, Drake! I have a recollection of you. It had come to my attention about your misconduct with the staff of the tournament earlier. Are you here for that reason or do you have other matters to discuss?" Greg was straightforward on his word. His expression was blank as if it was void with any emotion.


    Drake forced an awkward smile after realizing that the man was directly confronting him about their issue.


    "Hehe, Mr. Greg, it is indeed because of my misconduct. I apologize for my behavior in the tournament, sir. I was ignorant. I hope you don''t take this on our company," Drake answered forcing his expression to look remorseful in front of the man. He bent his body slightly to offer a customary bow to the man.


    "You are the only heir of the FDS Press Company, correct?" Greg looked at the man from head to foot. His gaze was too sharp as if it would pierce through his soul.


    "Th--that is correct, Mr. Greg. I am the only heir," Greg responded. He made a little research about the man and learned of his position. Thus, his tone was polite and respectful.


    "Then, all your actions are a reflection of your company. You may not be the CEO of it right now, but once you took over that position, conduct some self-control to avoid disaster," Greg stated. His tone was too calm that his words do not mean to rebuke the man. It was more like he was giving a piece of brotherly advice to him.


    "Thank you for your words of wisdom, sir," Greg blandly said. He almost rolled his eyes while replying.


    "Hmm, my words are nothing. It will only have its meaning if you apply them," Greg responded. "I am not offended by your actions. However, you have offended the staff," he added with a hint for the man to take responsibility to those whom he had angered and insulted earlier.


    "I know what to do," Drake mumbled and then walked towards the center of the hall where a microphone stand started.


    Greg followed his figure until the man took the phone and faced the crowd.


    Almost everyone was still eating when Drake stood in the center, holding the microphone in one hand. The employees in other press companies present quickly recognized him. They instantly focused their attention on the man.


    Not long after, the blinding light from camera flashes was projected to the center where he stood.


    Drake wave his hand and smiled generously at the camera. Giving them a perfectly charming smile.


    "Ehem! Ladies and gentlemen. I am Drake, the only heir of the FDS Press Company. I am here in front of you to address my misconduct earlier during the tournament. I was ignorant and did not know better. My apologies if I made you upset. Rest assured that I will be mindful of my temper." Drake''s words echoed to the entire wall.


    On the side of Sofia''s table, everyone had halted eating their food and listened attentively to the man.


    "This man just came here to apologize? Is a party the right place to apologize?" Jing Jing stated glaring at the man. Drake has not yet noticed her but she was able to spot him the moment he entered the place.


    "Ohh, this was the arrogant man that I have exchanged an argument with earlier. Something might have come up that made him own his mistake. Based on his demeanor earlier, I never expected that he would apologize," Sofia commented softly.


    "Who knows? Maybe the gaming company made a formal complaint to them," Jing Jing guessed. She was aware of how the District 7 press companies make their business. If the client complains of their service, they needed to instantly release a public apology.


    The sight of Drake apologizing was not unusual for her to see. But she knew this man too much and she was aware that all his politeness was just a pretense.

 Chapter 117 - Unconfirmed Participation

    "His apology is fine but, it is not the proper time to deliver this speech," Sofia stated before she dabbed the spoon on her bowl. She then started finishing her food.


    "You are right, Sofia. That man does not have a brain! He knows that this is the time of celebration but now, he is ruining the mood! Tskk!" Jing Jing furrowed her brows and a deep scowl appeared on her face.


    Now, she started to question herself why she was able to have a past relationship with the man. She must have been blinded by love that she did not saw these bad qualities of Drake before.


    "You sounded so bitter, sis Jing! Do you have grievances to this man?" Sofia questioned after realizing that Jing Jing seemed to talk about personal matters instead of just the professionalism issues.


    "I have some resentments of him! That man is a snake!" Jing Jing replied as it was still from her memories of what he did to her. No matter how she wanted to ignore her hatred, it would seemed impossible to do.


    "Ohh, I see. Well, he appeared to really have gotten his karma now that he was forced to swallow his pride and come here. When I talk with him earlier, he was so arrogant," Sofia commented.


    "He is an arrogant snake!" Jing Jing supplied.


    "For him to apologize, that should not be easy. Anyway, sister Jing, it''s better not to waste your time on your hatred," Sofia mumbled.


    Her passive attitude towards her ex-boyfriend made Jing Jing looked at her for a long time. There was also bitterness on it that she could sense. But it was only because Sofia felt disappointed for the man to deliver his apology in such an event. He could have just discreetly done it... to handle the matter privately than letting the public know of what he had done.


    "True. There are more good things that the world has to offer. For example, this buttered lobster and shrimp!" Jing Jing stated and enthusiastically picked the dish. The two easily changed their topic and did not pay much attention to Drake anymore.


    "Nothing beats good food!" Sofia said with a casual smile on her lips.


    In the middle, Drake had finished his speech and stood awkwardly. Toni, the host of the party was also glaring at him. The man had prepared a program for this party to follow. Yet, Drake came out of nowhere to present his apology. This could be seen as a lack of consideration to the organizer of the party.


    "This conceited heir of the FDS!!! Perhaps, he was waiting for someone to applause him? hmmm!" Toni whispered in annoyance as Drake continued to stand in the middle looking clueless at the people''s reaction.


    He was confident that the guest would sympathize with him. However, as scanned the crowd, no one was paying attention to his speech anymore!


    At that point, for the first time in his life, he felt insignificant! He did not understand how those people ignored him when he just delivered his dramatic apology.


    Sofia was right to guess that it was a big deal for the man to swallow his pride and apologize. If it was not for his father, he would never do it!


    As Drake looked towards Mr. Greg''s table, he saw the man was also busy texting on his phone.


    Drake sighed and stomped his feet on the carpeted floor before he walked out of the venue without looking back.


    Unbeknownst to him, the guest may have not paid attention to his speech but the media personalities were covering it.


    Before he could step outside the vicinity of the Rrad Hotel, another issue began to blow up on the internet. This time, it was centered on him.


    If Drake was ignored by the attendees of the victory party, the netizens had given his apology the right scrutiny.


    A headline such as: "The Heir of FDS Press Company Apologizes for Tournament Misconduct!" circulated like a wildfire.


    By the time Drake got back in his car, he received a call from his father again.


    "You really want to destroy the reputation of our company?! Hmmph! Why is the internet roasting you right now!" the old man spoke the moment he pressed the answer button on his mobile screen.


    "Father, I have no idea what you are talking about. I just apologized to Mr. Greg," Drake coldly replied.


    "You have no idea... you have no idea... You always have no idea!!!" the old man yelled on the other line.


    Drake remained silent. The fury in between his father''s breathing and talking was too evident as he spoke. And he was just too tired anymore. In his mind, he had done what the old man was requesting for him. Why was he still disappointed?


    "I have done what I think is right. Father, I am driving, so I will disconnect the call now," Drake stated and then hung up the call before the old man could speak a word.


    As he turned on the engine of his car, there was a certain vehicle that caught in his peripheral view.


    This vehicle was a sports car that had not yet been produced in District 7. Drake always wanted to buy this car yet, the shipping was too troublesome for him.


    He turned his engine off and then stared at the vehicle. This sports car was escorted by another two sedan cars behind. It stopped at the front area of the entrance area of the Rrad Hotel.


    A man from the hotel went towards the sports car and then led the man inside, Three bodyguards trailed behind them.


    Base on their movement''s the man in the silver suit had an extraordinary background.


    It was very rare to see someone in the district have a personal bodyguard.


    "Who could be that tycoon?" Drake wondered. He took a glance at the sports car before he finally left the place.


    Meanwhile, back on the victory party venue. People started to engage in one another. The media also began surrounding the Chronos squad table, asking few questions from every member of their team.


    They easily responded to all the questions asked by the media personalities at them.  There were no signs of reluctance when they answered and discussed all their plans. As an individual and as a group.


    "Our goal as a squad is beyond playing the game for we understood the nature of having a career in this field. If circumstance would allow, the Chronos squad would soon become the Chronos Corporation. My team somehow discussed this lightly, but soon, we will have a serious talk once we got the resources," Sofia finished their statement as the champion of the tournament.


    Everybody clapped their hands in admiration. The group showed a clear goal and they also presented how they would achieve it. Overall, they could not believe that this group of youngsters has such a mature approach to their future!


    "I have other questions, young miss. Ehem, it was announced that there would be an upcoming regional tournament soon. Will the Chronos squad be joining in this competition?" another interviewer quickly asked. This was one of the many hot topics on the internet right now. Hence, she did not waste the opportunity and asked the group directly.


    "Right now, we won''t confirm this matter. We are still students and there might be a conflict with our schedule at school," Sofia easily invaded the question.


    In reality, their chance of winning the regional tournament was unclear. She knew the struggle that they would be facing on the adjustments that they needed to undergo.


    Because of the new banning feature, it would be a complicated preparation that they needed to do. Hence, she had chosen the best alibi she could use for the interviewer to be satisfied with her answer.


    Everyone seemed to be contented with her response. The people around were also reminded that Sofia''s team was all attending junior and senior high. It was understandable if they won''t partici[ate the tournament. With the goals that the group had presented to them, it was understandable that they would need to focus on their studies too.


    "I''m not saying that we won''t be participating. The ban mode is an amazing feature. This gives us gamers more enjoyment in the game. Just follow our official page for the updates of our group!" Sofia added taking advantage of the interview to promote their organization.


    The interviewer nodded at her and did not ask another question anymore. She initially had follow-up questions such as, ''What role and line up will your group be using?'' ''Are you certain to get the champion title on the regionals?''


    The list of questions was scribbled into her mini notebook. However, when Sofia expressed her response, her prepared questions had gone to nothing.


    The media personalities also looked at the group in a new light after noticing how straightforward they talk. They could feel the firmness of their future plans which was admirable from such players of their age.

 Chapter 118 - Stephens Interest

    Most players of the tournament also attended the party. But these youngsters only arrived after the session of the interviews.


    Upon their arrival, they also expressed their appreciation for the theme and decoration of the venue. It was that small matter that gamers normally paid much attention to.


    "That skin of the mage was painted beautifully!" one of the muttered as he pointed the poster on the wall where a mage character was displayed.


    "This place is like the game itself without the jungle elements! The color of this place was really the logo of the game!" another one expressed.


    Being late in attending parties was some sort of not a big deal for them as they were not the main star of the event.


    No one also complained that they did not come to the venue on time.


    Still, these players did not want to miss the chance to enjoy a good bonding with other players. Such opportunity rarely happens in real life for their bonding usually happened inside the game.


    The squad leaders started to approach one another as a group and discussed their excitement about the next tournament.


    After some time, the entire hall was filled with chatter and laughter.


    The tempo of the background music slowly changed to a more lively one and, the guests - specially the younger ones, started dancing.


    Even those media personalities and their crew have placed their pieces of equipment in the corner of the room and joined the fun.


    "Let''s dance, Claire!" Clark invited and extended his hand to her. The lady easily took his offer and soon the two went to join the people enjoying the good music.


    The host of the party approached Mr. Greg first before he moves his feet to Sofia''s table.


    "Ohh, you guys wanna dance? Come on!" Toni beamed while grooving in front of the three members of the Chronos squad.


    "I''ll dance with you!" Joey stood, and trailed behind the host, leaving Sofia and Stephen at the table.


    At that time, Sofia was checking her emails and did not pay much attention to the group. Whereas, Stephen was silently sitting beside her. He was also looking at his phone with a deep frown on his forehead. A slight irritation glimmered on his face.


    Sofia may have sensed his mode for she abruptly glanced at Stephen''s side.


    "What''s wrong?" she asked with a concerned tone.


    "Just something..." Stephen trailed before placing his phone in his pocket.


    When the air around them suddenly become awkward, Sofia looked at the man in the eye. "You have something to say?"


    She had read the expression on his face. In fact, she had seen this kind of expression so many times. The reluctant look when someone wants to say something.


    Stephen sigh and then take a gulp from his glass. "I''m just wondering something, Sof..." he started and looked around.


    "Wondering of what?" she asked when his words come to a dead end.


    "Ehem! I''ll be straightforward about this. Just don''t be upset," Stephen replied.


    "Now, I''m curious! What is it?" Sofia questioned. She could see how visibly nervous Stephen was looking at her. Something that just happened out of nowhere.


    "Sof, I like you!" he directly said.


    The lady looking at him almost choked of what she had heard. However, she managed to gather her composure.


    "I know, it''s kind of sudden. But, since you support Clark and Claire, I reckon that you would also give me a chance to court you," he added.


    "Mmmn, give me a night to think of this proposal. Clark and Claire, their situation is different. I have other things in mind right now," Sofia muttered easily. Her words smoothly came out of her lips treating Stephen like a business partner doing some sort of negotiations.


    "I''ll support you, Sof. Just give me the chance," Stephen appealed.


    She did not remove her gaze until Stephen felt uncomfortable with how he was being examined by Sofia. Such gaze felt as though it penetrated at the depth of his soul.


    "My mind is focused on making stability for our squad," she mumbled.


    Sofia intently stared at the boy in front of her. The first thought that came across her mind when she heard his confession was, ''You are too young for me.''


    It was the reaction of her 24-year old soul. But then. she realized another thing. This was exactly what she had missed in her last life. She died without even dating anybody for the same reason. She was too focused with her career on managing her company!


    Now, she left to wonder if what would be the reaction of the original Sofia, the one that was almost the same age as the boy in front of her.


    "Stephen, what are your aspirations?" she suddenly asked.


    "Ahh, if you''ll give me a chance and agree to be my girlfriend, I''ll make you the happiest girl, Sof!" Stephen responded without blinking his eyes.


    Sofia nodded her head. The aspirations she knew were totally different from that of Stephen. And she had heard these kinds of promises from the men that tried to court her in the past life.


    But there was a big difference between her current life and her last life.


    In the past, men wanted to build a connection with her because she came from a family with a formidable background. She was not only rich but one of the richest! They wanted to have a relationship with her because of her wealth. And none of those men showed sincerity over her. Only their interest towards what she had.


    On the other hand, in this current life, she was as good as a commoner. Her background was not noteworthy and no one even approached her nor confessed their interest in her. Not until today.


    "Why?" a question suddenly escaped from her lips. Why would this boy want to have a romantic relationship with her? Why would he pick an ordinary-looking girl like her among other fabulous girls in school?


    She remembered that Stephen was popular with the girls in their school because of his bad-boy persona. Many admired his looks and attitude. So why her?


    Upon hearing her question, Stephen could only raise a brow as he did not fully understood what she was asking to him.


    "Why me?" Sofia repeated.


    "Ohh, that! Hehe, it''s too early to say that I love you. But, during the time that we are together, I fall in love with your personality. I am attracted to your character. Just the entire you," Stephen stated.


    "You could have the popular girls in school?" Sofia suggested.


    "Ahh, you have underestimated your reputation. After today, trust me, your popularity will grow beyond our school. But, that''s not the main reason why I like you. I also can''t explain it. But, I do really like you, Sof!" Stephen rambled.


    "Ohh, okay. You won''t ask me if I like you?" Sofia questioned.


    "It does not matter if you don''t like me. I''ll make you like me! Just give me a chance," Stephen declared with full of determination.


    "I''ll think about it. You''re not in a hurry, aren''t you?" She playfully asked when she realized that the air around them had become too serious.


    "No, there''s no rush! Hehe," Stephen shyly scratched the back of his head and looked away. His ears slightly turned red as Sofia observed his movement.


    "Hehe, I just need to sort out the possibilities. Right now, I have nothing to offer to you. But if you''ll be by my side, I''ll build you an empire," Sofia murmured. Her voice was too soft but it was enough for Stephen to hear.


    "I''ll wait for your response tomorrow," Stephen firmly responded. He was moved by Sofia''s words.


    The lady did not actually reject him. She just needed time to make plans for the two of them if they would go out too.


    Plans... all her life was built with this. And even if it was her second life, Sofia would still make a plan for each of the steps that she would take and for every decision that she would make.


    "Yeah... For a moment I thought you are in trouble!" Sofia slightly tapped his shoulder. Her tone switched back to a casual one.


    "Well, I would be in trouble if you reacted badly by what I said, yes?" Stephen chuckled.


    "You are overthinking. I mean, it did not occur to me that you actually like beyond the friendship level. Other than playing the games, there is nothing much likable with me," Sofia shrugged and crossed her legs.


    "That''s your opinion! But, I am not playing here. I do really like you. Maybe, it''s your attitude," Stephen smiled.


    "Well, it''s good that you are straightforward. Just make sure you are not in a current relationship in real life or in a virtual world. I don''t want to deal with headaches if we get to be together," Sofia warned him playfully.


    "Hmm, I can''t remember having a girlfriend really. But, most of the girls had assumed me to be their boyfriend. I can''t help it. I have such a handsome face!" Stephen grinned widely. This time the awkwardness between them had easily vanished.


    "Well, that would be a challenge. But, it''s not difficult to address," Sofia stated.

 Chapter 119 - Watch Your Tone

    On the other table, Mr. Greg stood from his chair and sneaked out of the party. He lazily strolled at the hallways and checked the architectural design of the building for a while before he moved his direction, headed towards the smoking area of the building.


    Several staff in the party who were very cautious of their actions instantly sigh a breath of relief as they saw the man leave the hall. Then, the group joined the crowd and danced.


    If Greg would be able to see their expressions, he would surely laugh. Who would have guessed that his presence restrained some of the staff?


    The location of the smoking area was near the exit. When he arrived, the vicinity was was empty giving him a great time to enjoy his solitude.


    As he took a lighter from the pocket of his pants, he noticed a figure of a man with three bodyguards trailing behind. The aura of these figures exudes tremendous amount of authority.


    It was the same man that Drake saw that entered the hotel. Although Drake did not know the man, Mr. Greg recognized him. Despite the great distance he was standing, he knows who the man was right away.


    He instantly took his phone and typed a message on it. His eyes followed the man''s movement and realized that it was going towards the hall where their victory party was located.


    After few seconds, white smoke puffed out of his cigar as he looked at the street outside the window. Then, he put out the fire of his cigar and slowly head back to the party.


    At the same time, the guests were at the peak of their energy. But, Sofia and Stephen decided to stay at their table.


    "The Lee Gaming squad is not joining the party? I did not see any of their members here," Stephen casually diverted their conversation to the event. It was kind of odd not to see them since they were the team who competed for the championship title.


    "Those rich kids do not lack party life. And with this occasion, they might be celebrating Valentine''s," Sofia giggled.


    The wealthy life was not new to her. Hence, she could easily tell the routine of rich kids every Valentine''s day.


    Wealthy families normally go for a fancy dinner together or they would be set up their parents for a blind date to some of their business partner''s children.


    They have different kinds of ways of enjoying the occasion.


    "Ohh, yeah!" Stephen casually agreed as he also remembered the backgrounds of their opponents.


    "Brent could actually come but now, he had a company to run. He won''t have the kind of privilege that we have," Sofia earnestly responded.


    She knew clearly how busy running a company was. To be able to play a virtual game was much like a consolation to them.


    "This Brent, do you like him?" Stephen cautiously asked.


    "We are friends. With his background, his family had surely arranged their in-laws already. Don''t see him as a competition," Sofia expressed. She knew exactly what the boy wanted to know. So, she addressed it directly.


    Hearing her words, Stephen became tensed. Somehow, the words she spoke created a tug in his heart, and his expression momentarily turned sour.


    He felt conflicted. But, it was just fleeting emotion, and he quickly concealed it before Sofia could notice anything.


    "Sister, let''s take a picture!" a random guessed approached Sofia. She recognized it as one of her opponents in the tournament.


    She nodded and snapped some photos together. Most of the players followed and approached their table just to get a selfie. No one had really stopped at them to have a serious conversation about the game.


    Sofia also understood that the focus of these fellow gamers around them was to really enjoy such a rare event. Instead of chatting around, she saw people dancing and laughing.


    Some group was imitating their in-game character''s movement while other were really confident to display their talents.


    It was but a great scene to see.


    Stephen''s eyes scanned the crowd and he secretly took a deep breath. Just now, he felt as though he was subjected to intense psychological quest.


    At some point, he even quietly chanted a prayer to avoid Sofia''s rejection. He may appear calm and collected when he confessed but internally, he was without a doubt, very nervous about one thing. And that thing was if Sofia would say no to him.


    However, he still took the shot and expressed his feelings to her.


    He planned to wait for a good time to talk to her. Perhaps, get a good place to have an appropriate discussion with their feelings.


    But, somehow, his instinct told him that there was no other right time than right now.


    Vulnerability was but an ugly feeling. When Stephen told Sofia that he liked her, he felt so vulnerable. He exposed himself to the possible pain of being rejected.


    Not that he could not endure the pain but he just could not imagine what would happen to their group if the two of them had some awkwardness.


    "Thank you, Sof..." he spoke without looking at him. He could sense that the lady was not really that much interested. Heck, he had seen when her passion was laid.


    Still, he was grateful that she was willing to think about his confession. The idea of them together going beyond the boundary of friendship. Somehow, it was overwhelming.


    He wanted to say more but it was too hard for him to confront all of his emotions right now. There was full of hope and also that fear of ruining everything because of him telling his emotions to her.


    On the other hand, Sofia gave Stephen a side glance. She knew the sincerity of his confession.


    "I have no plans to be in a relationship at this early. But, I''ll make a serious consideration about it tonight," she responded.


    Their conversation ended with a comforting silence between them. No one spoke and just observed the people enjoying the party.


    In the distance, Sofia watched Clark and Claire enjoying their moment. A small smile subconsciously curled on her lips seeing how good this pair looked.


    She could not also help but worry for the future that laid between the two. They have a different social standing and she was certain that it would be the gap that they needed to face along with their relationship.


    ''Ahh! Why am I thinking these negative things... Right now, I''m a teenager! I should live life to the fullest!'' she mentally scolded herself after realizing how her negative thoughts had been playing in her head.


    Time passed by and people started to disperse and consider it a night.


    "I''ll probably go first. It''s getting late," Sofia stated.


    "Let''s go together!" Stephen said.


    The two maneuvered their bodies towards the crowed and went to Claire and Clark.


    "I''ll go now, Claire! Enjoy the party!" Sofia told them. Since Clark had a driver, she knew that the two would be safe even if she will leave the party first.


    "But--" Clark frowned yet, he could not finish his sentence.


    "I''ll take a cab. Stephen''s with me," Sofia said.


    "Okay! See you tomorrow!"


    Stephen also told Joey that they were leaving.


    "I''ll come with you! I wanna sleep now," Joey stated while massaging his head.


    "Okay, let''s go," Sofia mumbled and swiftly went to the door. The two boys trailed behind her.


    Several guests were also leaving the venue with wide grins on their faces indicating that they were having a good time.


    Sofia waited for the guests to went their way before she stepped out of the hall.


    Just as she was about to make a quick turn to go towards the exit of the building, the man wearing a silver suit emerged on the opposite side.


    "Get the young master," the man''s voice echoed in the hallway.


    Stephen abruptly halted upon hearing the voice. His body stiffened on the spot and the color of his face drained in an instant.


    Before Sofia and Joey could process what was happening, the guards escorting the man advanced their way to Stephen. Their agility was on top notch and in one motion, they dragged him away.


    Sofia watched as Stephen reluctantly walked together with the intimidating bodyguards.


    She was too familiar with the uniforms that the bodyguards were wearing.


    It was a special agency that catered protection of the wealthy. She had those types of bodyguards in her last life as well.


    ''What is happening?'' she thought.


    She just watched until Stephen''s figure was lost in her sight. She did not react for she knew that those bodyguards were professionals in securing the safety of their bosses.


    Only a few families could afford to hire thier services. Somehow, she could tell that Stephen may be connected to them.


    The man wearing a silver suit glanced at her and also looked at Joey.


    "Who are you?" the man asked them. His tone was firm and intimidating making Joey stood straight.


    "Watch you tone, Mister," Sofia muttered. Her voice was soft yet there was a hind of threat laced on it.


    In an instant, the man was startled by her response.


    He did not expect that a young girl would talk back to her. Not to mention, she was pointing out his tone of voice! The lady was challenging his authority!

 Chapter 120 - Sofias Views About Success

    "Sof!" Joey exclaimed as his body involuntarily trembled. He felt anxious after he heard how Sofia responded to the man. All his sleepiness and fatigue were gone in a blink of an eye and it was replaced by the feeling of fear that the man would do something at them.


    "Sof, here me out. Given the fact that this man was heavily guarded, he should be someone that we must not offend! Sof, we will get in trouble!" Joey added when Sofia did not respond to him. He obliged himself to remind Sofia about the three bodyguards that had accompanied the man.


    There were only few reason that a person would be heavily guarded. One was a criminal. The other was those who held political power and authority.


    Joey could not recognize the man but he could tell that he had a resemblance of Stephen''s face. So, he wished that Sofia would not pursue the man''s rudeness earlier.


    At the same time, Mr. Greg quietly emerged few feet away from the man. His timing was perfect to hear Sofia''s startling response.


    ''This girl is really bold! I thought that she was just confident. But now, she actually dares to use a superior tone with this man!'' he secretly thought after he heard Sofia replying to the man rather in an unusual.


    ''This must be an interesting thing to watch!'' he decided to rest on the corner and halted his movements to observe the two at the sideline.


    "Audacious! Did I hear it correctly? Did you just command me to watch my tone? Hmmph! You are just a nobody! Do you know who I am, young girl?" the man questioned while his eyes glowered at Sofia.


    No one has ever rebuked him as Sofia did. Their initial encounter escalated quickly to hostility.


    The man was feared by the other associates that he had. All employees on his company must bow to his presence. Yet, it appeared that the teenager did not get a hint of how terrifying his background is!


    "Sof," Joey whispered again. He slightly pulled the hem of Sofia''s dress to get her attention. However, Sofia''s eyes were glued only at the man.


    "Tell me about yourself! Don''t expect me to know you," Sofia said. No, her tone was actually demanding for the man to speak of his identity. ''If you think you can intimidate me by using your overbearing attitude, then you have picked the wrong target!'' she thought while looking at the man.


    Their encounter was too sudden and she had completely forgotten her current identity. All she knew was that she disliked how the man talked to her.


    Even before her last life, she loathed overbearing people that used their power to make others feared them. ''If you are my employee in the past, I would have fired you by now!'' she gritted her teeth as she looked at the man''s face full of disdain.


    The man should be aware that she was a companion of Stephen. It was not clear what the man''s connection with their teammate.


    But, he was actually treating her and Joey as though they were insignificant. And Sofia refused to yield by the direct contempt from the man.


    "Base on what background do you think you have for you to talk back like this to me, young girl?" the man raised a brow and crossed his arms on his chest.


    He emitted a murderous aura upon reflecting Sofia''s unyielding attitude. Tell me about yourself! Isn''t this question normally used for applicants on an initial job interview?


    "The fact is right here in front of us. If you failed to notice it then let me tell you that it is base on the fact that you asked me rudely, sir!" Sofia directly replied.


    They were both strangers and had no enmity with each other. But for some reason, the man was already hostile as he initially asked Sofia. How could Sofia allow someone to lay prejudices in her?


    "Hehe, I see. Your arrogance has enlightened me. A commoner can actually talk back like this! The people in district 7 is really unique!" the man muttered with a tone full of mockery as he took notice of Sofia''s appearance. It was easy to tell that the young girl does not have a special background at all!


    "Arrogance? No, it is not arrogance. For your information, I was standing here silently... You were the first to approach me with an unreasonable tone. Between us, you should know who is the rightful arrogant," Sofia reasoned maintaining a small smile on her face. Although they were exchanging their arguments, the lady remained calm, collected, and composed.


    In her mind, she merely reminded the man to watch his tone. Yet, he was actually offended. If there was someone who would be offended, it should be her!


    "You have no respect for the elder! Is this how your parents raised you?" the man snapped in fury. The lady had actually refuted him instead of apologizing and admit her faults.


    He expected that the lady was now apologizing.


    But, Sofia just stood there with her head held high.


    Even the gaze from the lady slightly terrified him. ''How can this girl talk back easily at me when my bodyguards would even stutter when they speak to me!''


    "Respect...? Hahaha, you are this old... if you don''t know how respect works, that is really a pity!" Sofia paused and examined the man''s suit.


    She could tell the brand of the clothing just by looking at the buttons. Her gaze swift easily to the entire outfit of the man. "You have a great set of expensive fashion sense. I could have respected you if you did not open your mouth," Sofia added.


    To say, the man looked fully respectable with his appearance. But, the moment he sought Sofia rudely, the lady instantly decided that the man was not worthy of her respect.


    At that point, the man was utterly humiliated. For someone who was in his caliber, he should not be easily provoked by the mere words of a teenager. But, there was something about Sofia''s tone that made him felt inferior.


    "You--- b*tch! You are this young but you don''t know how to conduct yourself properly! I will teach you a lesson!" the man pointed his index finger at Sofia.


    Mr. Greg looked tensed when he saw that the man raised his arms and was about to hit the lady. His action was too ungentlemanly and unprofessional.


    Fortunately, Joey was quick to move Sofia''s body. She successfully dodged the hand of the man.


    "Joey, you don''t need to get involved. This man is targeting me," Sofia told her companion easily. She had sensed from the start that the man''s anger was direct to her after Stephen left.


    "An old man hitting a mere commoner? You are not worthy of my respect," Sofia stated.


    "Hahaha, I wonder where you get this confidence, young girl! I am the founder of Ching Summit Estates, the most successful figure in district 5!" the man introduced hoping that the lady would show some fear in him.


    Mr. Greg''s eyes sparkled in astonishment as he continued to observe what was about to unfold before him.


    He had never thought in his entire life that the day would come that the most respected founder of CSE would reveal his identity to a gamer!


    He stared at Sofia but the lady''s expression remained the same. She did not look impressed by the man''s revelation.


    "The fact that you needed to introduce yourself to a commoner like me only meant one thing. Do you know what it is?" Sofia asked softly.  Her feet slowly move from side to side as if she was some kind of a teacher giving a lecture to her student.


    "What is it?" the man complied and asked her back.


    "Your success may not have that much impact. If you claim to be the most successful person in whatever district it is, I should be able to know you!" Sofia told the man.


    ''How could this youngster talk about impact!'' Mr. Greg mentally exclaimed.


    "It is your ignorance that you could not recognize me!" the man debated. It was silly that he still continued to prove something about himself. Yet, he felt that he needed to be very defensive around this teenager.


    "I am not ignorant," Sofia corrected. "It might be your false sense of superiority!" she added.


    In her eyes, the man was indeed rich. There was no doubt about his money. But how he act and presented himself in front of her was a disappointment to the rich people.


    "What do you mean... false sense of security? Do you know how much money I make?" the man stated.


    "Being rich does not define success. You can be wealthy but not yet successful,"  Sofia responded.


    The depth meaning of her words was clear. Sofia meant to say that success does not only exist within the context of money and power.


    Being successful can exist anywhere.


    "Fulfillment is the true definition of success," Sofia continued after the man was rendered speechless.


    And it made Mr. Greg who was just eavesdropping on them and also the man to stop their thoughts for a very long time.

 Chapter 121 - Classy And Not Trashy

    "As the saying goes, money cannot buy you a class. Look at you... Isn''t it pathetic that you are arguing with a commoner like me?" Sofia raised her hand and combed the side of her hair. She took out her phone and glanced at the time.


    She needed to point out to the man that their conversation was pointless. Arguing with a teenager that was not even half of his age was very unproductive for him. At the same time, she would not back down until he won''t stop throwing a vicious gaze at her.


    The man may have been quiet but the murderous expression on his face indicated that he wanted to put the lady in her place.


    Sofia was too familiar with this kind of gaze. The one that meant to intimidate and declare authority.


    ''You want to put me in place? Hehe, I''d like to see you try and try,'' Sofia commented in her mind.


    Then, as if an idea came upon her mind, she raised her left arm and showed the man her watch. "Since you look down on me even before we had this conversation... it amuses me that you are willing to spend your time with someone who is wearing a cheap watch. Look carefully, it''s not even functioning anymore. A little girl that could not even afford a functioning watch should not be worthy of your attention."


    Her situation was clearly laughable. In the past, she was adorned with gold watches decorated with exquisite diamonds. The top quality of the brand was at her disposal anytime she wants. Now, when she needed to see the time, she had to check her phone for it.


    The man only scoffed. and then the murderous aura on his face returned, "Say, what is your relationship with my son?"


    This time, it was Sofia and Joey who had almost a heart attack. The man was actually Stephen''s father!


    "Did I hear this man correctly?" Joey whispered and looked concerned. If it was Stephen''s father, then the two of them were all screwd up.


    "I''m a little bit shock too. Unexpectedly, he is Stephen''s father," Sofia mumbled. She could tell the resemblance of the two but she dismissed the possibility earlier. All she had thought was that the man may be a relative.


    "Never have a I thought that we will meet Stephen''s father tonight!" Joey exclaimed. He then took his phone and started to text their friend for confirmation.


    "So, you won''t answer me? Where is that sharp tongue that you have? Heh! Tell me, what is your relationship with my son?!" the man demanded with a stern tone when he noticed that the young girl''s attention was not focused on him.


    "Surely, with your money... you already know my relationship with Stephen, no? I''m sure you already know that Stephen and I are schoolmates and that we both play games. Am I correct, uncle?" It did not take a minute for Sofia to recover from her shock. Then, she easily put the man in the hot spot.


    Since the man claimed to be successful, Sofia could tell that the man already knew the answer to his question.


    "I have sent a chat to Stephen and asked him about this man. Let''s just wait for his response," Joey informed Sofia.


    "The bodyguards may have confiscated his mobile phone," Sofia speculated.


    "Ohh... then, are we going to end our friendship with him?" Joey continued to inquire.


    "No. We are still friends with Stephen. It does not change anything," Sofia replied.


    "Okay. Good! Coz, he is the only great friend that I have," Joey murmured.


    "Ehh? Then what about me and Claire and Clark? We are not great friends?" Sofia playfully asked.


    "Oh! No, no! You guys are also great friends of mine. I just have a special bond with Stephen for we know each other longer than you guys are," Joey explained.


    "I''m just kidding!" Sofia giggled then focused her attention on the man. "I''m sure that you have a folder of one of us when you hired your men to run a background check with us!"


    The possibility of this man hiring a private investigator to monitor his son''s movement would not be surprising to her.


    What''s shocking to her was that Stephen had not mentioned to their group or any members of the group that he had a wealthy family background.


    "Hehe, you seemed to know it all! Indeed, according to my private investigators, my son had expressed an interest in you. Cheh! A girl like you who is so brazen ... you are not a perfect fit for my son!"


    Sofia looked at him with an unfazed face. "That is true. I don''t deserve to have a judgmental father-in-law! Based on your attitude, no young lady would want to be your daughter-in-law!" Sofia smirked.


    "You really dare! HAH! Little girl, you have some way of your words. But it had already come out to your mouth that you are nothing but a commoner. And you can''t even afford to buy a functioning watch!" the man said.


    Sofia subconsciously touched the watch. "Commoners are not ''nothing''. And it is the fact that I can''t afford to buy a watch. But, it''s just trivial things... I could still tell the time," Sofia replied. In reality, the watch that she was using was still working earlier. Perhaps, it was terrified by the man that it decided to stop operating.


    At that point, the man somehow reflected their situation too. Why is he still there? He already accomplished the reason why he went to the hotel. But somehow, he wanted to prove a point to the young lady.


    Unfortunately, he was not certain what point he would prove. Did he plan to prove to Sofia that he had massive wealth? The little girl did not seem affected by his declaration.


    Did he want to prove that he knows better than her? It would seem that the lady had shut him up completely rather than he would give a lecture to the little girl.


    The man resumed his silence as countless thoughts were running on his head. The situation had already been out of his control.


    He only wanted to scare this lady but now, it was him who could not speak anything!


    "There''s only one conclusion that I could think. I must be this great for you to stick your time at me. Rich people normally stick with their fellow wealthy friends. Maybe you are attracted to how rich I am. Could it be that you are after my richness that comes from self-respect and wisdom?"


    Sofia continued to speak as the man had really lost his stance and was unable to think of any rebuttal.


    "I want to teach you a lesson! If it meant to argue with you, then I will do it!" the man debated. He straightened his posture and clasped his hands together.


    "There is one lesson that one of us would be getting right now. And it would not be me. Hehehe, wisdom does not come on age. Sorry to say but you lacked proper etiquette that those old people have."


    On the other side, Mr. Greg was murmuring some words that only he could hear. ''''This girl is too ordinary in terms of appearance. What she wears is also trashy. But her way of speaking implied a class."


    In the perspective of his field who strived to improve the game, he could only describe Sofia in a term that he was very familiar with. Classy and not trashy.


    "Wisdom? A big talk for a little girl! Hmmph! You stay away from my son!" the man threatened and walked out without waiting for her to speak up.


    Joey stared at the retreating figure of the man until he completely left. "Wow, Stephen is rich? We were friends but I did not know about this stuff!"


    "His relationship with that man may not be the typical father and son," Sofia said. Before Stephen left, she saw the pleading look in his eyes and there was a melancholic expression on his face.


    Sofia knew that it was common for the rich kids with controlling parents not to show any enthusiasm around them. "The man said he is from district 5. And he brought three bodyguards with him. Maybe, Stephen ran away from his home."


    Her mind seemed to have a replay of the earlier events that led the bodyguards to escort Stephen. Sofia sighed and pursed her lips.


    "Why did he tell you that we should stay away from Stephen? Do rich people really treat us poor people like a bad friend for their children?" Joey grumbled.


    "Nahh, I don''t think it''s about friendship in general. There''s more to it," Sofia said.


    "What could be the real reason for his harsh words, Sof? I am angry but also scared of the man. Yet, you actually talked back on him! I admire your courage, Sof!" Joey chuckled. He had just finished with the emotional storm that struck at his feelings harder.


    Sofia exhaled and closed her eyes for a while. "Hehe, Stephen''s father, I did not know of him too. Stephen did not mention it to me too. Anyway, his father just comes at me barking with rudeness. This kind of behavior, even if we are kids we should not tolerate it. It is better to draw a line of boundary on the initial meeting."

 Chapter 122 - Fathers Arrangement

    "I can''t believe it! The Stephen that I knew was almost expelled from school because of bad behavior! He has a street kid attitude that does not care of what the people think of him." Joey paused and looked at Sofia in the face. "You don''t look so shocked as me, Sof!" he wondered upon realizing that Sofia looked calm.


    "I''ve already recovered from my shock, Joey. Hehe, you have not yet recovered? Go back to the base and heal!" Sofia playfully commanded at Joey to console him.


    "AHH! I forgot that you are a tank user. Your recovery skill must be so high!" Joey chuckled reflecting Sofia''s role in her personality.


    "Yes, I''ve gained this ability! Haha," Sofia just mildly laughed.


    "Still, it''s unbelievable! After years of being friends with Stephen, I did not expect him to have a rich father! Well, I am not also familiar with the rich family in other districts so, it must be the reason!" Joey murmured with a confused expression on his face. Then, he looked around the place to check if there were other people that witnessed their confrontation.


    His eyes went straight to Mr. Greg who remained standing few feet away from them. But since he knew the special identity of the man, he could only force a smile.


    Mr. Greg realized that Joey was looking his way. He nodded back at Joey and muttered, "Ohh, I better get going!"


    "Sof, Clark''s parent is rich. Now, Stephen''s is also rich. If you have something to reveal to me, now is the right time. It''s better to get shocked in all once," Joey suggested.


    "I''m not rich... just yet," Sofia giggled. "When I have that wealthy status, you would surely know."


    "Okay... Well, I''m not very observant but I could tell that you have the character that rich people have. The confidence is very solid. Even when you talk back to Stephen''s father earlier, you look like you are standing on the same level as him, Sof!" Joey commented.


    "Did I? I don''t know really. He just came at us with strong hostility, And since I am your tank, I had to fight back," Sofia easily responded. She conveniently used her role as a reference for how she behaved earlier.


    Joey nodded his head like he was fully convinced of Sofia''s words. Then, he absentmindedly responded, "Ohh... that''s why!"


    "Stephen may have his own reasons to hide his identity from us. It''s his personal life and we have not yet reached that extent of knowing every aspect of our lives. Let''s just respect his choice," Sofia suddenly stated.


    She would not condemn the man for not telling his family background. If the man wanted his personal life to be private, then it was his choice.


    Also, Sofia had her own secrets to keep that she could never tell anyone.


    "Stephen told me that the place he was living in was his home. It''s just a few blocks away. It does not make sense if he is a ran away..." Joey trailed while trying to analyze his friend''s situation.


    "It could be their property. Rich people such as Clark''s family had it. So, it''s not intriguing that Stephen''s family also has many houses located all over the place," Sofia explained.


    "You are right. Will he continue to hang out with us though?" Joey sighed and felt dejected.


    Sofia slightly patted Joey''s shoulder as they started to walk towards the exit door. "Why are you thinking too much? You can call Stephen directly if you want to know his real situation. Only he can give the accurate explanation of it!"


    "Ahh! Right! I''ll call him later!" Joey agreed and before he could speak more, his mobile phone rang hinting him for an incoming call. "Ohh, he is calling now!"


    "Good! Then, it saves you the effort of calling him," Sofia chuckled. Then, her attention was cast towards Mr. Greg who was casually walking near a pillar. Sofia offered a friendly nod to greet the man before she continued to walk.


    On the other side, Joey answered the call anxiously.


    "Bro, how are you? Am I still your brother? What should I call you? AHH, I''m so confused!" he immediately bombarded the man with questions.


    "Joey, I''m fine bro! Hehe, No need to worry. Do me a favor... take care of Sofia--" the line went dead.


    "Hello? Bro? Hello?"


    Joey frowned and looked at the dark screen of his phone. "Damn, My phone is low bat! What a bad timing!" he cursed.


    "You did not talk with him?" Sofia asked curiously.


    "It was too short that I did not confirm anything to him. He said that he is fine. There''s no need to worry. Then, my mobile phone shut down!" Joey reported.


    "Of course he is fine. It''s still his father. And those men who took him were professional bodyguards," Sofia expressed. Unlike Joey, she was not so disturbed by Stephen''s situation. No matter what, Stephen is a man. And it may not be obvious in the public, but, in a rich family, sons were always dotted over daughters.


    Her concern was on his father instead. She dared to talk back to the man. If Stephen''s father bore grudges on her, then, troubles were about to come her way.


    ''Ahh! Why did I argue with that old man!'' Sofia scolded herself in her mind.


    "This phone is cursed!" Joey clicked his tongue and placed back his device in his pocket.


    "I should have not quarreled with Stephen''s father," Sofia sighed deeply.


    "I don''t know but he was actually acting like he is superior like an emperor or something. I was irritated also by how he treated us. But, I just stayed silent because I''m too scared to say anything!" Joey lamented.


    Superiority... perhaps, it was the exact reason why Sofia snapped at the man.


    In her last life, people always respected her. No one acted like a supreme being in front of her.


    Thus, she was unable to control her emotion when the man approached her rudely.


    "What he sows is what he reap," Sofia randomly said.


    The two finally stepped out of the hotel and called a cab.


    "Joey, I''ll go take this cab first. Just take the next cab. See you tomorrow," Sofia bid her farewell before she went inside the car. There were a lot of thoughts that were running in her mind as she sat in the car.


    "Take care, Sof! See you tomorrow," Joey waved at her and stared at the vehicle as it moved towards the highway.


    Meanwhile, Stephen was sitting on a limousine looking at the call logs of his phone. He wanted to call Sofia, but he felt that he would need to explain a lot to her. It was not the right time for the two of them to have a discussion.


    He tried to call Joey another time after his initial call was cut off, but the device operator notified him that his friend cannot be reached.


    After three more attempts of dialing and getting the same response, Stephen could only sigh and keep away his phone.


    One guard was driving while the other was in the passenger seat. His father was in a separate car trailing behind him.


    "Young Master, your father was in a foul mood. I advise not to add on his anger," the guard who was driving the limousine stated.


    "How did you find me here?" Stephen asked.


    "Ohh, it''s because of the headmaster of your school. Well, your father had already known that you are a student in district 7. So, he directed the mayor of this district to tell your school that they needed to expel you at any cost. Young master, your father assumed that it was the only way for you to come back to him. But, when the headmaster of the school told the mayor that they cannot expel you, your father quickly investigated the matter." the bodyguard politely responded.


    "Ohh, I see. I don''t really plan to go home even if I was expelled in school," Stephen expressed. Now, he completely understood how his father found his whereabouts.


    "We sent you several chat messages, young master. Have you not receive it?" the other guard asked.


    "I''ve deleted them. I won''t agree to it so there is no point in reading the message," Stephen responded. He then leaned his shoulder comfortably and closed his eyes.


    He suddenly felt exhausted and just wanted to sleep.


    "Young master, I must say that you have behaved well tonight. In the past, we always have a hard time chasing you. But now, you voluntarily come with us," the bodyguards expressed their gratitude.


    If only they would know that the reason Stephen did not go for a chase was that Sofia was there, they would definitely be shocked.


    "Young master, today is the occasion set for your father to meet your fianc¨¦. And when you did not arrive at the venue, he becomes furious and commanded us to drag you there," the bodyguard continued to report.


    Stephen did not respond to the two men. He just looked outside the window with blank expression in his face.

 Chapter 123 - No Cure For Insecure

    At some point that night, Sofia stood in the darkness of her room debating whether she should drink a coffee or just sleep. She knew that Claire was already in her apartment for she had seen Clark''s car pull out on their street.


    She stretched her body comfortably and a yawn escaped from her lips.


    Her brain still wanted to do so many things. Surprisingly, the kind of hustle that she had in her past life was still within her. The urge to make plans and create ventures was running in her system.


    But at the same, she does not want to burn out her new body. It would not be good for her health and she vowed that she would get enough beauty rest after the tournament.


    Her foot slowly moved towards a particular drawer in her desk where a single sachet of chamomile tea was placed.


    "It''s better if I''ll sleep tonight. Things can easily analyze after a good rest," she muttered softly while staring at the sachet of chamomile tea in her hand.


    She slowly prepared the tea and sat silently on the window. White smoke with a calming fragrance lingered around her.


    The only source of light reflected in her place was from the moonlight illuminating above the sky. As she stared at the giant ball with a few clouds hung beside it, Sofia could not help but release a sigh.


    "After we cash in the prize money, it''s best if we could invest it directly. The earlier we can make our investments, the sooner we will gain profits. But, I don''t know what this district lacked yet. I have to make a feasibility study tomorrow," Sofia planned with full of eagerness in her eyes.


    In her mind, she was already envisioning that she was exploring the district 7 to oversee what type of business she should appropriately venture.


    It was nothing special. Just a typical matter that any business lords would consider and do before they go and venture for their business.


    But, the only difference was that most business lords had their own team of experts that would do the feasibility study for them. There were lots of factors to consider on opening a business, hence, they had to be careful to avoid loss.


    Sofia leaned her face on the window and watched outside. Fireflies flew near the pane as if they were entertaining her as their wings glide through the wind.


    She was caught in a deep trance as her eyes were directed on the tiny lights moving on the air. It had been so long since she saw a firefly. This creatures were not present in her past home...


    Her phone suddenly vibrated while her mind drifted towards the things that happened that day and the things that she would be doing soon.


    The vibration of her device pulled her out of her reverie.


    "What an eventful day!" she muttered and changed her sitting position.


    Sofia held the teacup in her left hand and grabbed her phone on the right.


    It was a message from Joey on their chat group telling them that he safely arrived at his place. The boy was also asking how they are.


    Sofia casually responded to Joey. After few seconds, Clark and Claire also sent their replies... Her members were already going to bed.


    The group exchanged their goodnights except for Stephen who did not even seen the message.  Before she closed the chat window, Sofia told her team to get a good rest.


    Her thumb gently tapped at the social media app and went to their official page.


    For a few minutes, Sofia was just scrolling at their official posts from their admins and the random comments of their followers.


    Then, one comment caught her attention...


    With the thousands of congratulations and supports coming from their fans, there was one account that already gave their group a harsh comment.


    Krista19 commented five minutes ago: BUNCH OF NOOBS CHRONOS! Come fight my squad and We will destroy you.


    "Five minutes ago? Hmm," Sofia murmured and scratched the back of her neck. She was not surprised if they gained a basher and hater already. The online community was too diverse and had a lot of trolls.


    However, what''s interesting was that this comment had gained thousands of replies too!


    Out of curiosity, Sofia clicked the replies and saw their fan''s responses defending the Chronos squad and scolding the person.


    Then, there were other netizens who were instigating for them to go on a match.


    More and more replies followed to apprehend the hater and it continued to add up.


    After several seconds of scrolling down on the replies from the comment, Sofia realized that the subject of discussion had become pointed to her?


    She looked closely at the other comments and confirmed that the hater was really talking to her.


    The hater was not targeting their squad. The topic of discussion was directed to her!


    The usual 5 v 5 match was not what the user of Krista19 account was looking for but a direct fight against Sofia. She was challenging Sofia to have a one on one.


    Krista19 replied from her comment: TANK USER FIGHT ME 1 v 1.  You coward!


    This user even repeated such a response three times!


    "I have a hater now?" Sofia raised her brows and went to her almost non-existent account. Despite the calmness that the chamomile tea was giving to her body, her chest swelled from the comment.


    No, this time it was the instinct of the gamer Sofia that overcame upon her. How could she endure being trash-talked bluntly by some random user?


    She quickly changed her nickname on the profile settings of her account to CEO UNRIVALED. Her profile picture also changed to the image of her in-game tank character. The update was done in a blink of an eye.


    Not long after, she returned to the comment section and directly replied to one of the three times repeated comments from her hater.


    CEO UNRIVALED replied to Krista19: Hello! Have guts to tag me before calling me a coward. There is no cure for the person who is too insecure.


    In just a few seconds after she sent her reply, the discussion of the entire gaming forum broke once more!


    This time, screenshots from her actual reply circulated like a wildfire.


    The hashtags #burn #nocureforinsecure went directly to the top trending discussion in the forum of the game.


    Some players who were not yet aware of the conflict asked the source of the particular screenshots and then made their own comments too. Others shared the exact post pushing the topic to override the other top trending issues.


    More so, some pro players have joined the trending discussions and incited Sofia to fight with the user for a one on one battle.


    To them, it would be fun to see how far would the conflict go. Since Sofia was the squad leader of the Chronos squad, it was not baffling to them that she would be targeted.


    Most squad leaders had also received this kind of challenge. But, they just ignored it. Now that Sofia responded to her basher, the battle would surely ensue.


    Sofia finished her tea and waited for her hater to respond. She even took the initiative to make an investigation.


    She clicked the profile of the account Krista19 and looked if the account was legit.


    Surprisingly, it was indeed but a real account!


    The user of the account was also a female studying in the same university as her. This user was also famous for her videos and streams.


    "I see! Young girl, you are too young to pick a fight on me!" Sofia started with a glint of coldness in her eyes.


    She examined all the content of the accounts and the posts. At that point, Sofia quickly reflected on why this user was targeting her. The lady must have been looking for quality content to add to her online views!


    "Do you think you can use me to gain more popularity? It''s fine if you asked for my squad to collab and done this thing in a nice way. But you actually choose this kind of approach. Don''t blame me for being rude," Sofia said and decided that she had known enough of the person behind the Krista19 account.


    On the surface, this user was expressing hate towards her. The user even dared to call her a coward and noob. But now, she realized that this user only wanted the attention of the public.


    If Sofia would respond to her, it would surely be good content. This kind of sly approach was already seen through by her old soul.


    Sofia waited for a notification ping to see if the user would respond to her, but she had no received any response. In the end, the effect from her tea and finally kicked in and she decided to go to bed and sleep.


    In another place, few miles away from Sofia''s apartment... a female with a mature and alluring figure was smiling from ear to ear. She was the user of the account Krista19.


    As she stared at Sofia''s response to her provocation, she could not help but be overjoyed.


    The public was indeed giving her some attention. She even received several direct chat messages from random people telling her how arrogant she was. It was surely from the fans of the Chronos squad.


    But this female did not care. She could not be bothered by the opinions of the public towards her. All she cared about was the view for her to gain popularity and earn money.

 Chapter 124 - A Meme To Counter An Argument

    "Hahaha... Perfect! Perfect! WAHAHAHA..." the room was filled with laughter as the female could not contain her amusement. She almost choked in between her laughs yet, she did not stop until she felt her abdomen hurt for too much laughing.


    Her plan was to lure the Chronos squad leader. But first, she must get acknowledgment from the leader for her to continue her plan.


    She did not expect to get the attention of Sofia in her first attempt. "How prompt of you to reply on me! HAHAHA," she stated.


    Since her target had caught the bait, she felt ecstatic and greatly accomplished for Sofia had replied to her comment. It saved her a lot of time.


    "I can definitely earn popularity in this! This is enough for now. Tomorrow morning, I will be back," the female smirked as she just stared at the screen of her phone. Her eyes sparkled while looking at the comments that continued to come.


    She was fully satisfied reading the response of Sofia from her provocation.


    But, she decided not to reply to her yet. "I need to wait for many more audiences to join this topic. Then, I will challenge this CEO UNRIVALED for a match tomorrow! Hehehe, No cure for insecure huh? How na?ve!"


    The female moved towards her bed where the moonlight illuminated her face...


    Her face resembled that of a doll, with round eyes, small lips, and a long nose. Her eyelashes were also thick and her jawline was perfectly shaped.


    She was beautiful as a fairy yet this lady was very shrewd.


    Her technique of gaining views always involved trashing other gamers and famous personalities. At first, she used her physical appearance to lure the audience to watch her streaming online games.


    As time passed by, she was not satisfied and become greedy. Now that her audience had less interaction on her streams, she started to devise another plan.


    Since she had done it so several times, she was confident that she could definitely gain something by targeting the Chronos squad leader.


    By targeting Sofia, her own channels would go on the top... or so she thought?


    -


    -


    While these two ladies went to their slumber and took their time for beauty rest, the spectators on social media were growing rapidly. The arguments had now formed a distinct group of three supporters.


    The first group was generally defending Sofia and continued to emphasize her contribution during the tournament. Most of them were tank users. Some give a single sentence with direct trash talk while there were others who took their time to write longer comments.


    The several longest replies in the comment could even be treated as an essay already for they had described their experience of being a tank user!


    The second group was from the side of Sofia''s basher. They also had their own argument citing how the Chronos squad were just lucky. They deliberately mocked the squad for having only five members and that even those regular players could form more than five players.


    Meanwhile, the third group was but those people who choose to be neutral. They were neither helping Sofia nor her basher. It was like they were just bystanders waiting for something big to happen.


    These people also joined the craze of comments but they were just adding fuel to the fire. They even tagged Sofia every time they post their replies!


    The night passed by quickly but the war of comments on social media continued.


    It would seem that these keyboard warriors do not have any plan to sleep at all!


    Sofia was awakened by Jing Jing''s phone call.


    "Sister Jing?" she asked in a groggy tone.


    "Sofia! Great! You answered my call. Sorry to wake you up this early," Jing Jing started.


    "Ohh, it''s nothing... Why do you call, sister Jing?" Sofia responded as she jumped out of her bed.


    "This... Sofia, we just want to ask your opinion about the ongoing debate on the official page of the Chronos Squad?" Jing Jing inquired.


    "Let me check first, sister Jing. Then, I''ll call you back," Sofia stated.


    At this point, she had no idea that the heated arguments from last night had evolved and turned into an official poll.


    The netizens created a poll of who would agree to a one-on-one fight between Sofia and Krista19!


    By the time Sofia opened her social media app, her jaw almost dropped on the floor. The notifications reflected on her account went by to 999+! It was over a thousand that the notification feature could no longer display the exact count!


    "What chaos is happening right now?" she gasped and decided to sit back on the edge of her bed.


    Her thumb swiftly pressed the notifications and scrolled down carefully. After five minutes, she excited the notification panel and closed her phone.


    Most messages contained random people tagging her. Now, she regretted that she did not rephrase her comment properly before she posted it!


    "I am busy," Sofia muttered after she realized that she had plans for that day. She hastily called Jing Jing back to inform her of her plans.


    "Sister Jing, let that mad woman continue to create trouble online. Let her bark until her voice is gone!" Sofia expressed playfully. "No, actually let me send a meme of a barking dog to counter her! Hahaha,"


    Jing Jing could not help but also giggled at her response. "Okay. I will tell the admins that they don''t need to respond to the woman''s provocation. But, I will instruct them to neutralize the comment section."


    "Yes, that woman is not worth our time. Just ignore her. Sister Jing, I will end this call now," Sofia politely responded.


    "Yes. Have a great day ahead! Sorry to disturb your sleep,"  Jing Jing said.


    "No problem. Bye, sis Jing! Have a great day to you too!" Sofia casually responded before ending the call.


    She crossed her legs and went back to her social media account. This time, she published her own post.


    Truth be told, she found a meme of a dog barking from the many screenshots on her gallery. It was stored by the original Sofia, perhaps, for trash-talking purposes.


    Now, Sofia found it hilarious. She had never imagined that a day would come where she would use a meme as a tool of the argument!

 Chapter 125 - War Of Keyboard Warriors?

    Sofia took her time to stare at the image of an animated dog on her screen before typing a caption. Her right eyebrow arched into a perfect angle. She could not think of anything at that time that she ended up placing a ''woof''.


    "Hehe," her shoulder slightly quivered as she stifled a laugh and finally published the post. Then, she stood up, hooked her phone on the charger, and proceeded to do her morning routine.


    A fan promptly noticed her post and from a single share, it multiplied quickly.


    Sofia was not thinking too much when it comes to memes. In the past, she had a rather serious life. Hence, she could only rely on the memories of the original Sofia when it comes to trash-talking.


    But somehow, it had gotten into her behavior too. For some reason, she was even having fun.


    Unbeknownst to Sofia, the caption of the meme that she had posted was actually popular. And the caption ''woof'' was also associated with an expression from an anime character that had several fans.


    With the magic that social media could do, the people following the anime started also sharing her particular post. Some people also associated her as a fan of the anime character.


    Now, they were all waiting for the Krista19 user to make her own response on it.


    ~


    On the other part of the district, the female they had been anticipating stirred from her slumber and subconsciously find her phone. A habit she had grown after being too drawn on social media.


    Her hand patted the pillows for a few seconds before she finally grabbed the device.


    With her sleepy eyes, she unlocked the screen and squinted as the light flashed on her face.


    "Hmmm," she happily hummed while looking at the huge number of comments added in her notification. Her chat box was also bursting with so many random messages from strangers.


    She lazily typed another post and tagged Sofia as well as the official page of the Chronos Squad on it.


    Krista19 published a post: CEO UNRIVALED do you dare fight me today? Let''s see if you really have that skills!


    A few seconds later her post gained a lot of reactions. Like ants that have smelled the scent of the sugar, the netizens instantly jammed on the comment section of this post.


    It must have been a good breakfast for the netizens looking for quality gossip to see the topic of last night had continued.


    "Ahh, today is a good day!" the female exclaimed happily, unaware of the forthcoming consequences of her actions.


    She continued to scroll on her feeds when her supporter started to mention her name to Sofia''s post.


    "Woof? What does this mean?" she frowned as she followed the link of the mentioned post.


    She did not understand the context of Sofia''s post, hence, her thumb instantly clicked the comments.


    Diana_Tank: Oh yeahh... CEO UNRIVALED is being chased by some random streamer dog lol. Tanks never run from any fight, beware dog!


    ForeverGamer: This streamer looked like a dog lol.


    TankPro: Just a dog asking for a bone. Oops! I mean a streamer asking to match with a pro just to gain fame! arf! arf!


    By reading a few of the comments, the female finally got the gist of the post. The bright expression of the female''s face turned dark.


    Then, she hastily replied to the comment to defend herself...


    Krista19 replied: I am too beautiful to be compared to a dog!


    It was a poor defense that she deliberately made. She wanted to boost her fame and gaining reactions from the audience, even if it was fueled by hate would still be a view for her.


    Soon after, netizens started to sent their criticisms. Some even edited her public photos and compared them to a dog!


    -


    -


    Meanwhile, the members of the Chronos squad were still oblivious of the war that was happening. They were still asleep peacefully under their blankets...


    By the time Claire woke up and realized what was happening, she anxiously ran towards Sofia''s unit without checking the other posts.


    In the past, she knew that her friend did not pay attention to social media. Thus, she was worried that Sofia was not aware...


    "Sof! Sof, Omg! The gaming community becomes crazy! Have you opened your account?" Claire barged into her unit with a frantic tone.


    At that time, Sofia had already dressed in cheap jeans and an oversized blue T-shirt. She was sitting in front of her mirror and was examining her jawline.


    "I''ve seen it earlier, Claire! It was pure chaos because of Krista19. Whoever that woman is, her guts is surely commendable!" she responded without glancing at her friend. She looked at her closely and counted the remaining pimples that invaded her skin.


    "Yes! That Krista19 is a streamer, Sof... you may not know her but she is quite popular. And she is very shrewd," Claire mumbled and also grabbed a chair.


    "Shrewd? Don''t worry about it. We should not focus too much on this kind of people. It''s not worth it," Sofia muttered.


    She had seen through the woman''s scheme before she went to sleep last night. Yet, there was not even a small disturbance in her expression when Claire warned her.


    This nonchalant behavior made Claire paused and just stared at what she was doing.


    "You are right! But, do you plan on fighting her on a match? I heard that she used some game cheats in the past," Claire stated.


    Certain map hacks at that time were already popular in the game. Some streamers had used it just to prove to their stream viewers that they have the real skills to be undefeated. But, in the end, their accounts were banned permanently in the game.


    "No, I''m busy! Hehe, unless I can profit from fighting her in one on one," Sofia answered.


    "Are you counting your pimples?" Claire asked when she realized that Sofia was staring for too long on her jawline.


    "Yep! I have a mission to evict this civilization... one by one. I''m just counting them to see the actual numbers of eviction, " she casually responded with a playful tone.


    "Ohh, okay! Haha, good luck! By the way, where are you going? You''re surprisingly dressed this early!" Claire inquired finally taking notice of Sofia''s outfit.


    "I''ll go and stroll around the district today," Sofia casually replied.

 Chapter 126 - Exploring District 7 (1)

    "S-stroll within our the district?!" Claire asked raising her eyebrow in disbelief. She stood near Sofia and placed the back of her hand on Sofia''s forehead, checking her temperature.


    "What are you doing?" Sofia frowned and pushed her hand. After she finally finished checking her face, Sofia looked Claire in the eye. "What are you touching my forehead. Those pimples will be provoked and maybe scatter!"


    "I''m just checking if you have a fever! You do not sound like you are your own self. Hmmph!" Claire exclaimed. She just could not believe that Sofia would take a stroll in their district. This was something that was not part of their vocabulary unless there were events and special occasions.


    "I''m not sick, Claire. I don''t have a fever," Sofia calmly said.


    "Yeah... you are perfectly healthy. But, this is the first time for me to hear you stroll in the district. You''ve never wake up early to stroll in our place! No, you have never gone down to the shopping places of the district!" Claire reasoned. In her mind, it was one of the many new behaviors that Sofia had exhibited from the past days.


    She already suspected that this Sofia in front of her was totally a different person. One that was very sophisticated, well-organized, and knows what she wants.


    The questions that runs into her mind were: Where is her friend go? Who is this person?


    She wanted to interrogate Sofia badly. But, she was not confident of doing it.


    Just by looking at the way Sofia''s posture when sitting was enough to convict her as an impostor. The real Sofia would sit like a lotus in her chair. But this new Sofia was sitting sophisticatedly with her legs crossed.


    "Ohh," Sofia also paused and was caught off guard by Claire''s words.


    Then, she remembered how the original owner of her body would stay up late or sometimes from dusk to dawn in her room to play the online game. No wonder, her memories of some places in their district were very bleak. It was indeed her first time today that she would explore district 7.


    ''This original Sofia is really an advance and ultra hardcore gamer! How could this lady stay on her room just playing the game!'' She could not help but wonder.


    Surely, the original owner of her body was addicted to the online game. But she could not blame the young lady too. The game was indeed extremely entertaining. The only thing that she was sad about was that the young lady did not make a proper balance between the online world and the real world causing her soul to dissipate.


    "Actually Claire, it gave me a realization that I don''t know much about our district after we went to the Rrad Hotel last night. So, I figure, I''ll see the shopping center and other places," Sofia reasoned.


    "Oh, you won''t bring me along? How about I''ll be absent in my earlier subjects?" Claire giggled.


    "Clark will be waiting for you at school for sure. Do you really wanna tag along with me!?" Sofia quickly made an effective diversion.


    "Ohh, we did agree to see each other early. Thanks for the reminder, you are the best!" Claire jumped and went her way back to her own unit.


    "Ahh love is a great motivation for sure," Sofia smiled as she looked at her friend''s figure dashing out of her place.


    She could bring her teammates later, but for now, she wanted to make this trip as peaceful as possible. For her to concentrate on her goal, she needed to see the situation of the district with someone who is older. And there was one name that only came to her mind - Jing Jing.


    She instantly told Jing Jing about her plan and the two quickly agreed to meet at one of the well-known 24-hour coffee shops in the district.


    Sofia contacted Jing Jing about her errands when she was already in the cab. So, Jing Jing was not yet in the coffee shop when she arrived.


    Inside the BEAN coffee shop, there were few office workers having their coffee as well. Three female staff were also standing behind the counter for the cashier.


    The BEAN Coffee shop was a well-established business with so many branches all over the globe. When she was still living the CEO life in her last life, she sometimes took coffee in this establishment. The design of their shop was perfect and the place was quiet.


    After knowing that it existed in her new life and also had a branch in district 7, she was more than happy to choose the venue of her meeting place with Jing Jing.


    "Good morning!" the cashier greeted her with a face full of smile.


    Sofia nodded in acknowledgment. She then sat at the left side table near the cashier area and waited for someone to get her order.


    However, minutes passed and no one had approached her table. Sofia looked around to scan the place. Then it dawned upon her, the service of the coffee shop was not what she had grown upon!


    In the past, someone would quickly approach her table the minute she took her seat. But that kind of service was only because she was raised in district 2! The region was home to the elites. Thus, their service to them was also top-notch.


    The cashier threw a weird glance at her, perhaps contemplating if she should call security on Sofia. The establishment does not cater to bystanders.


    This rule was clear in the sign placed on the entrance door of the shop. And since Sofia did not make any order, instead, she directly occupied a table, the cashier was assuming that perhaps the young girl was making trouble in her work.


    Just as she finally made up her decision to call their security guard, Sofia stood from her seat and walked towards the counter. The cashier breathed a sigh of relief.


    "May I have a regular espresso and a pack of cookies?" Sofia politely spoke her order.


    "Do you need a creamer and extra sugar?" the cashier politely offered. This lady was too young to get an espresso. Most of her age would order choco or vanilla and other sweets.


    "It''s fine," Sofia replied.


    The cashier nodded before she proceeded to prepare her order.


    Outside the BEAN Coffee shop, Jing Jing hastily parked her car and entered the place. She easily recognized the back of Sofia talking with the cashier.


    "Sofia!" she called and waved at her.


    "Sister Jing, sorry to bother you," Sofia responded. She was aware the Jing Jing would be working in the press company, but there was no other available person that she had for her to accompany.


    "Ohh, Boss Wang agrees of me to join with you for the rest of the day... Hehe, I was just monitoring the social media anyway," Jing Jing stated.


    Then, the cashier greeted Jing Jing and asked for her order.


    "I''ll have matcha please," Jing Jing quickly answered.


    After they got their drinks, Jing Jing also frowned on the coffee choice that Sofia had ordered. But she did not say anything to it.


    "You know, the online topic of you and that Krista19 had surpassed half a million votes. The netizens were voting to the pool and want to see you fight against her in one on one," Jing Jing reported.


    "The girl really got what she wanted. The views... Well, the higher she climbed, the more harsher the winds would be. Her technique will maybe bring her to the top but it won''t help her stay in the position," Sofia mumbled.


    Jing Jing''s draw dropped on the floor and her eyes widened. "You sounded like an ancient ruler!"


    "No, haha. I just read it from some books," Sofia shrugged and drank her espresso.


    "Oh... it''s good that you already knew about her schemes! I meant to warn you today that this streamer is very sly," Jing Jing stated.


    "Claire also told me about this illegal use of tools like map hacks and gaming cheats," Sofia stated. "When I have a time on her, I''ll let her know that she picked the wrong person to offend."


    "Okay. But what do you need? Do you want to go shopping dressed?" Jing Jing inquired.


    "I''m trying to see the market of our place," Sofia admitted.


    "Market and product? What do you mean?" Claire scratched the back of her head, unable to process what she just heard.


    "Sister Jing, it''s like this... I am exploring our district, trying to understand the situation of the market and the behavior of the consumer first, Then, my team will engage in the business. For me to decide which product or business we will open, we had to know first the right marketable product," Sofia explained.


    "I... I''m still confused. Are you conducting a feasibility study by observing... while exploring the district?" Jing Jing clarified.


    "Feasibility study is really the professional term. But, I''ll just call it exploring the district," Sofia finished her coffee and felt like her body was fully energized. Her soul was excited to see and discover the potential of their district.

 Chapter 127 - Exploring District 7 (2) - Business And Trust

    "While we are here, I have something to discuss with you too, Sofia!" Jing Jing as they settled comfortably on their table.


    She took a big pair of sunglasses from her sling bag and wore them casually. Sofia herself was also wearing one to hide her identity.


    She might not be as famous as the celebrity idols but she had made precautions of the potential disturbance and disruption that she might encounter if she revealed her face openly.


    "Sure! What is it, sister Jing?" Sofia chirped.


    Her slender fingers gripped the cup of coffee with elegant movements and brought them to her lips. The first taste from her espresso made her nodded her head a few times in approval of the pure blend.


    Jing Jing took a minute to just watch her reaction as she took a sip from her coffee. "That''s too strong for your age," she finally commented on her choice of drink.


    Sofia smiled sweetly. The taste was perfect. "Quite frankly, yesterday was totally exhausting. I need this to wake up my entire soul," she giggled.


    "Oh, yes. You should take rest properly. You are still young," Jing Jing responded. Now it made sense that she would choose a coffee that would strongly wake her system up.


    "Sister Jing, don''t worry. I will surely rest. I just need to see the situation of the market in this place. What do you want to discuss?" Sofia responded.


    "Hmmn, What exactly are your plans, Sofia? I felt so strange to say this, but, I could sense that you have a full agenda for today. I just had to be honest with you about this... it felt like I am accompanying a higher boss in my company," Jing Jing muttered. Strange as she felt that she was accompanying someone who was much more wiser than her. ''Perhaps Sofia''s clear eyes? The sophistication of her movements? Her tone?'' she secretly thought of the reason why she felt the young lady way better than her.


    "That''s flattering, sister Jing. I am still a student. For the agenda? Yes, I do have, Sister Jing!" Sofia beamed.


    "You really have an agenda? I thought I sensed wrong and you''ll just stroll around at random places," Jing Jing commented.


    "I need to explore district 7 but since I have no acquaintances to anyone in the shopping locations, it''s not convenient for me to go alone," Sofia explained. She was anticipating that some people may not take her seriously if she entered an establishment for she is young.


    "I see. Then, what is this exploring the district exactly? I always stroll in the entire district so, I can give you a tour," Jing Jing curiously muttered.


    "It''s part of my squad''s plan for the money that we got in the tournament. We are planning to invest the money. But, we just could not decide the product or line of services to put our money yet. I''ll have to check the demands of the market," Sofia easily responded. In fact, their group had not yet discussed any product, still, she wanted to inform Jing Jing right ahead of what would happen in the Chronos squad.


    "Ohh... demands of the market," Jing Jing repeated softly as she felt a little bit at a loss of what to speak next. "D-did your school already teach you guys this stuff? This kind of discussion is rather more complicated if it''s about market demands and stuff," she ended up inquiring Sofia.


    "Yes, the school offers seminars for the students," Sofia answered.


    "Cool! Well, there''s one that I got acquainted with recently. This girl is offering a business too and I''ve tried it. She was still looking for business partners," Jing Jing nodded and finished her matcha coffee.


    "B-business? What is her line of product?" Sofia crossed her legs and turned serious. There was a glint of excitement in her eyes as she gazed at Jing Jing.


    "Her business is actually easy. You will just invest the money. And then, the next month, it will be doubled. Then, you''ll withdraw the money and invest another amount if you want," Jing Jing responded coolly. Her mind drifted to this girl who contacted her through chat message and offered the business.


    In an instant, Sofia''s excitement vanished. She looked away to conceal the sudden change of her expression and secretly inhaled.


    "How to do it, sister Jing?" she managed to ask. But her heart was already rapidly beating the moment Jing Jing described the business. It sounded too good to be true! And she remembered the similarity of such business schemes in her past life.


    "It''s pretty simple and no hassle. And no, it''s not a scam. I have tried it once with 4000 investments. I got an 8000 cash out. Right now, I''m thinking of investing bigger," Jing Jing narrated.


    "Sister Jing, that amount of profit sounded too good to be true. If there is no product, then, then, how did they get the funding of their business to give you this kind of profit?" Sofia questioned. Now, she was certain that it was indeed the business scheme that she was thinking.


    "I don''t know either. But, they gave us a website to track our money. And we will also request a cash-out on the website, then, they will send the money to the bank. It''s an easy investment. You should consider joining!" Jing Jing suggested.


    "Sister Jing, I remember a financial literacy seminar that I once attended. It talked about this kind of business," Sofia started. There was not really a seminar but she felt the need to convince Jing Jing not to trust the business.


    "Nice! Are you joining? I can give you a referral code?" Jing Jing beamed, oblivious of what Sofia was thinking in her mind.


    "Uhm, sister Jing... it''s like this. In the seminar, the speaker actually warned us not to trust this kind of investment. It''s a common business scam scheme. At first when you said that you gave them 4000 for your investment. Then, it was doubled, right?" Sofia paused and looked at Jing Jing in the eye.


    "Yes, that''s right! So, I can assure you that this investment is not a scam!" Jing Jing defended.


    "Sister Jing, this is the strategy of how they market their scam business and get more investments," Sofia stated. She even prolonged the word ''scam'' to make sure that Jing Jing would get her message well.


    "I don''t think so," Jing Jing slightly frowned.


    "You''ll see it soon. When you give them the initial investment, they knew that you are testing the scam business by giving an amount that is not so big. So, they would naturally multiply your because they are confident that you will surely share how good the investment is. Also, the next time that you invest your money, it will be bigger because you know the potential profit for the bigger amount. When the time comes that the majority of the investors would also give a huge amount, the people who founded the scam business will vanish without a trace... taking all the money with him," Sofia calmly explained.


    Jing Jing suddenly felt a cold air traveled in her spine. She was about to invest 500,000! It was all the amount in her bank!


    In fact, if Sofia did not call her today she would have gone to the bank and transfer her money to the girl that referred her to the scam business!


    "Wow!" Jing Jing became speechless. Just by imagining that all her hard-earned money would be taken by someone was already an upsetting thought.


    "It''s better if you stop investing them. You''ll see soon. Regret always happens in the end... once the results are revealed and the damage has been done," Sofia advised.


    "For a moment, you sounded like an elder!" Jing Jing exclaimed.


    "Hehe, I am just telling you what I have learned from the class, sister Jing. It''s still up to you if you want to continue with this business," Sofia told her.


    "I know. Well, I''ll take note of your words. Hehe," Jing Jing chuckled. "You know, all the youngsters that I knew, I actually referred them to this investment. So, I should tell them not to continue," she assessed and started typing messages in her phone.


    "Yes, just warn them about the possibility but don''t impose anything," Sofia said. It was a miracle that Jing Jing did not snap and flipped at her after she told her about the business. If it was someone else, Sofia would possibly be called some nasty names and left her.


    "You are right. I''ll just tell them that this is a possible scenario. It''s up to them," Jing Jing agreed as she also realized how sensitive the situation would be. The business had really allowed them to earn profit. For sure, no one would believe her words!


    "In the field of business, you can never trust anyone even business partners. The corporate world is like an ancient palace where everyone has their personal goals and they would do anything to gain money. Even the most unethical or illegal way. Sister Jing, don''t trust easily," Sofia uttered in a serious tone.


    "That''s true," Jing Jing promptly agreed as she could relate to what had happened to her and Drake. She should not trust easily.


    After a while of their chitchat, the two decided to head out of the BEAN coffee shop and finally set to their exploration.

 Chapter 128 - Financially Capable Vs Financially Stable

    "Sofia, what are your parents do for a living? They have raised you well," Jing Jing asked when she could no longer contain her interest in Sofia''s bearing. This young lady looked so simple but her gestures were so refined.


    It had been more than an hour as they stroll the district. The two of them passed through fast food stalls and stopped in front of an area where a small shop that was not operating. Few people walked on the side of a street while others were waiting for a cab.


    In the small shop, there was a sign on the door that indicated that the business had already stopped its operation for 4 months already. The sign stated that the owner terminated his business and was selling the property.


    "My parents?" Sofia muttered. Her lips pouted as she subconsciously thought of her parents.


    Several images flashed in her mind...


    In her first memory, her past parents appeared. Two figures were holding a glass of champagne, standing proudly looking at her. They were full of elegance despite their old age.


    They were on a yacht and were smiling together. It was the scene when her old soul was still in her body as the Lisa Summers.


    Strangely, the memory was still fresh in her mind. Their family had a yacht party to celebrate her inauguration as the CEO of Summers Holdings Inc.


    After some time, another image appeared in Sofia''s thoughts...


    This time, it showed two elders. A man and a woman sitting in a humble house made of wood. And the entire place was surrounded by almost tall trees. Serenity.


    The ambiance of the house was too peaceful and the faces of the elders reflected complete blissfulness as they sat on a wooden chair staring at the sun as it rises above and brought daylight to the dawn.


    They seemed to really enjoy watching the sunrise, one habit that Sofia also does in her past life. But the only difference was that she would watch the sunrise in the metropolitan of District 2 where buildings surrounded the place.


    Sofia sucked her breath and closed her eyes. She was suddenly overwhelmed with mixed emotions. Her eyebrows furrowed as she was in deep thought.


    "Ehem," she cleared her throat to hide the lingering emotions in her eyes. "Sister Jing, my grandparents raised me in the mountains when I was little. My parents were already dead," she managed to answer. Her tone suddenly became compassionate.


    It turned out that the original Sofia had a pitiful childhood life.


    Her parents were killed by a landslide incident in the mountains when they were hunting for their food. The area was too remote and their remains were never recovered.


    Still, the heavens gave young Sofia the opportunity to proceed with her education to a non-standard means.


    Even if her grandparents could not afford to finance her, she was able to find an opportunity to earn money on her own.


    In their mountains, it happened that there was a small computer shop where they use coins to play online games.


    Five coins were enough for anyone to play on the computer for half an hour. Considering the price, it was too cheap, but because the location was in the mountains, it was reasonable.


    Sofia learned to play games in the shop. It was her starting point. It started as a plain curiosity as she usually watched the other children were very happy with what they were doing on the computer.


    Every day, she goes to the computer shop and watched others play. She would just stand behind them and stared at the monitor until the game is done.


    After some time of her observing the players, the older gamers that were regulars in the computer shop taught her how to play. They even paid for a computer for her to use. She did not know why, but maybe, they felt pity that she was the only kid who was not playing inside the shop.


    Sofia learned all the commands that needed to play and even memorized the maps and dynamics of the game.


    To say, she was a fast learner. When Sofia had fully grasped the game, the older gamers taught her how to trade and sell rare items of the game  in exchange of real money.


    They were even kind enough to lend to Sofia their bank details whenever she had transactions. And luck may be on her side too as no seller had scammed her whenever she sells an item.


    What''s more fascinating was that the honesty and integrity of the older gamers towards the young Sofia were too pure.


    Those older gamers showed her the foreign money conversion and all bank history of the transaction deposit from their bank account.


    Not once did they took money from the young girl! They were even proud of her whenever she obtains rare items to trade. It would always mean that she would earn money from her gaming.


    And when the school resumed, they also encourage Sofia to enroll with them. Perhaps, they knew that she had a potential to succeed despite her humble background.


    At that time, Sofia does not even own any gadgets when she arrived in the town of district 7. But, she had earned enough money to finance her living.


    Also, the senior gamers that encouraged her to enroll continued to guide and her until they moved out to another location, went to college and lost contact with her.


    Now, the old soul in Sofia''s body fully understood the situation she was in. She had misjudged the young girl by being addicted to the game. No, the young Sofia did not use the game as entertainment. She used it as a means of earning money.


    The reason why the young teen played online games from dusk to dawn was that she was also piloting other accounts.


    Pilots were players who usually used other accounts on behalf of the owner to meet a goal. To finish a difficult quest, to level up the account, or other stuff.


    It was not unusual for the game to have pilot players for several quests with good rewards refreshes several times within 24 hours. If the owner could not play, they would ask someone to pilot their account instead to be able to gain rewards.


    This is how gamers took care of their account without playing directly on it. Their reason of using pilot players? Because the game has an existing ranking no matter which server they play. And if they missed a quest, there is a possibility that their account would fall from their ranks.


    The young Sofia had a good rank for her account in the game. She also got a great reputation among the players. So, they sometimes asked her to pilot their account and pay her money.


    ''This original Sofia is actually similar to me when it comes to financial capability,'' she thought. The young girl was capable of gaining money and managed to save it in the bank. She was competent in terms of arranging her current finances and pay them on time. The school fees and the rent of her apartment unit. She had done well.


    The only thing that they were not similar was that the old soul in Sofia''s body now was not only financially capable, she was also financially stable.


    She only needed to circulate her money. She was already born into a very wealthy family. The money is already on her table for her disposal. Whereas, the original Sofia need to obtain money first. There was nothing on her table. Playing hard in the online game was her only option.


    "Sorry to hear that," Jing Jing looked at Sofia. She felt bad for asking about her parents. But, the Sofia that was standing beside her was actually thankful for bringing such a question.


    She was fully driven with her goal to go back to the corporate world. She was aware of her current age but she neglected the other matters that a teenager should consider.


    If Jing Jing did not ask her about her parents, she would not bother checking the memory of the original Sofia about this matter.


    "I was little when they died. It was because of the landslide in my home," Sofia started and glanced at the property in front of them. There were small tears in her eyes as she revisited the memories in her head.


    She casually took a picture of the signs that were plastered on the door before she focused her attention on Jing Jing.


    "Ohh, that landslide... I remember that," Jing Jing responded softly.


    Sofia wiped the small tear in the side of her eye and looked at the sky. Because she was wearing sunglasses, she could stare at the cloud for a long time.


    When she heaved a sigh, Jing Jing gulped and finally noticed that there was a melancholic vibe that started to wrap around them. "Ah! I''m really sorry for bringing up the bad memories of your childhood, Sofia. I was just curious that your way of walking is so refined. So, I asked about them," Jing Jing explained.


    "I''m okay, sister Jing. You don''t need to apologize. I just realized something else," Sofia responded. She could still feel her heart turned heavy by what she had uncovered.


    ''I admire you for being so resilient, young girl. What you had worked hard, I will make it prosper. Your story will be an inspiration to the teens in the next generations to come,'' she made a vow in her mind as if her soul was communicating the original Sofia through her head.

 Chapter 129 - Harassed (1)

    "Sister Jing, I think I have seen enough. I''ll head to my school now," Sofia murmured after another hour of them strolling from one place to another. Their last stop happened to be an eyewear shop where the corridor was completely empty.


    "Alright. I''ll drop you at your school before I head to my office. Don''t hesitate to chat with me if you need anything," Jing Jing politely offered while giving her a friendly smile. She did not expect that she would enjoy her time strolling around, yet, she did. Sofia was assertive and continued to maintain their conversation all throughout the time.


    "Yes, I will do that. I''m also planning on opening a bank account for our squad. Can I ask you a favor to process this matter, Sister Jing?" Sofia nodded her head.


    "Sure! I''ll check the requirements first to the bank," Jing Jing quickly responded. She did not know why but for some reason, she felt honored to be able to help the young lady. She felt also strange that she had extended her miles to help Sofia this far.


    "Thank you, sister Jing. I will give you the necessary documents right away once you have the free time to process our bank account. Just a joint account with a passbook will do," Sofia answered.


    "Don''t thank me yet! I have not yet done your request, hehe..." Jing Jing slightly laughed. For the first time, she could sense a slight feeling of pressure with Sofia''s gratitude.


    "I mean, thank you for agreeing to my request, Sister Jing. It is more convenient for that you to be willing to assist me in this matter," Sofia admitted.


    "Ahh, don''t flatter me! Anyway, about this game, when I watched the videos of the tournament, it really looks fun. I used to play in pc, but, that was just for a brief moment when my cousin had a vacation at my house before," Jing Jing suddenly commented while they head back to her car. She had played the game but, she was not too dedicated to it. So, she only plays online games when her cousin is around.


    "The pc game is great and this online mobile game is also fun, Sister Jing! Try downloading the game and you can play with me and the group too," Sofia.


    "I''m thinking of doing that. But, I''m too old to play games now," Jing Jing chuckled. She should have better things to focus on. Apart from her career, she should think of her relationship status too!


    "Too old? No way! I bet, nobody will judge you if you play the mobile game, sister Jing. And even if there will be people complaining about your choice to have fun in the game, other opinions do not really matter," Sofia advised her.


    Their career in gaming was fleeting but it does not mean that playing the online game and having fun with it is also passing.


    Pro gamers normally take their retirement in the pro scene at the age of mid twenties or earlier. Some would also consider retiring in their early thirties.


    Yet, the retirement in the pro scene would never be an indication that they would need to stop playing the game.


    "You are right. I will see if I will also enjoy the game," Jing Jing supported. She then took her phone and downloaded the game.


    "You will enjoy it for sure!" Sofia grinned.


    While Sofia and Jing Jing drove to the busy freeway of district 7, Claire and Clark also strode on the school hallway. Their fellow students gave them side glances from time to time. But, no one had dared to approach them.


    These fellow students were also participants of the tournament yesterday. And since they were defeated, they somehow felt bitter at Claire and Clark''s presence.


    At some point, Claire felt a burning sensation from an intense gaze directed at her back. She could sense that someone was glaring at her. But, instead of stopping in her tracks, she decided to ignore the malicious stare.


    "Hey! You!"


    "Hey! Are you that assassin user?" someone continuously yelled from their behind.


    Claire turned around and saw several students. She had easily identified the person who stared at her back.


    "Do you need something?" she softly asked.


    There were six male students following them. Just by looking at their appearance, she could tell that they were not up for good.


    "Heh! Fight me, assassin vs assassin!" the male demanded right away.


    Upon hearing the words from the fellow student, Clark could not help but closed the distance between him and Claire. He rubbed his hands and stared at the man. "Brothers, we are in school. We do not play in the school grounds," Clark stated.


    It was one rule that Sofia had told them before. Once they are in school, they must stop thinking about the game and just focus on their study to balance their mind.


    "Cheh! That''s lame," the male scowled with a mocking tone.


    "Yes, that''s so lame!" one of his companions repeated while smirking at the two.


    Then, the rest of them started to laugh at Clark''s response.


    "What''s lame?" another voice could be heard from a few feet away from them, joining their conversation. It was stern, completely interrupting their laughter. The tone was like that of a teacher reprimanding the students for bad behavior.


    The six male students stiffened. But as they turned around, they heaved a sigh of relief. They really thought that it was a teacher! It turned out that it was just a fellow student too.


    Despite her distance, Claire and Clark did not need to see who had spoken just now. They instantly knew that it was Sofia. They smiled brightly and waved their hands at her.


    "Sof, this boy is challenging me," Claire reported while pointing at the male student.


    "No challenges in school grounds," Sofia firmly said.


    "And who are you? I am not interested in fighting a tank user. I want to fight your assassin user!" the male student sought while crossing his arms in his chest.


    "I am their leader. What I say is for the benefit of my member," Sofia emphasized.


    "B-benefit? You want to benefit? How about let''s have a bet of who will win so that you can benefit? Name the amount!" the male student suggested.


    "Right now, we have a lot of catching up to do with our studies. And school is not a good venue to initiate gambling," Sofia siad. She shook her head and looked at the six males with a disappointed eyes.


    "Ohh, what a lame thing to say!" the male student criticized.


    "Yeah, I thought that the Chronos squad is the victory of the tournament. But they are actually this lame!" another male student expressed.


    "We are not lame!" Clark said in annoyance. His fist was clenched tightly as anger started to buble in his chest.


    "Don''t mind them, Clark," Sofia told her teammate first before she returned to stare at the male student.


    "Ohh, the champions are scared to fight against me! They are scared!" the male student announced loudly in hopes of gathering many audiences of their dispute.


    "Are you provoking me, boy? Hehe, too bad! We won''t be playing online games on the school grounds starting today," Sofia finished and lead her two friends towards their school library.


    The six men did not falter and walked ahead of them only to block their path.


    "Who told you to turn your back on me?" the male student asked arrogantly.


    "Move away, boys! Otherwise, I will sue all of you for harassing us. There is a time to play and there is a time for our study. You can approach us after school and let''s see what kind of skills you have," Sofia stated.


    "You don''t scare us!" the male student said in a tone that was bluntly challenging Sofia.


    "Heh! Naturally, with my face, I don''t think you''ll get scared. If there is something else, it would be you boys crushing on my beauty," Sofia smirked.


    "What a joke!" the male student stated but Sofia did not respond to him anymore. She just shoved her way out of the crazy teens who seemed really desperate to challenge Claire for an assassin vs assassin game.


    Unexpectedly, the student grabbed her shoulder forcefully.


    Sofia winced in pain and glared at the boy for a long time.


    "Sof, are you okay? Let''s go to the clinic," Claire suggested worriedly as she saw the red marks in Sofia''s skin.


    The male student became flustered too as he realized what he had done. "I--- I''m sorry!" he stuttered an apology. His companions also stood frozen when they saw the action of their friend.


    "I have warned you," Sofia calmly said before the three of them walked away.


    The six male students stared at the three retreating figures of the Chronos squad.


    "Ash, what have you done!?" one of his companions asked after he recovered from the initial shock.


    "Tsk! I don''t care!" the male student coldly said. His face turned dark while thinking of a good alibi to tell just in case Sofia would report his action to their guidance office.

 Chapter 130 - Harassed (2)

    "Oh my gosh! Sof, it''s really bruising. That boy had pulled your arm so hard!" Claire started seeing the handprint in Sofia''s delicate skin.


    Sofia nodded and for the first time, the calm expression on her face had totally changed into a dark one. It may sound overacting as the boy only grabbed her arm but to a gamer, it was a big deal. The coordination of their fingers to the arms could affect their performance in playing. One numbness of the hand could result in a full defeat.


    "It''s fine. I don''t have class yet, I can take care of this matter, Claire," Sofia spoke hinting to the two companions that they could go ahead and attend their class.


    "No, we won''t leave you," Clark insisted with a worried expression all over his face. Leaving Sofia does not felt right and he was determined to accompany her as they headed to the clinic.


    "You, two... don''t worry about me. I know what to do. Go to your class before you''ll get late," Sofia commanded with no room for argument.


    Claire looked unwilling but with Sofia''s stern voice, she had no choice but to nod her head in agreement. Clark also felt the same.


    "I know what to do, guys. In the meantime, avoid that group," Sofia stated before the two turned around and walked in the opposite direction.


    Sofia finally moved her feet and continued to head to the clinic alone.


    She twisted her shoulder and arm then, raised them up and down. The stinging pain from where the male student grabbed her did not cause too much pain.


    But she could not imagine if the man did not stop his movement mid-way, she could have dislocated a bone. It would surely be the end of her gaming career if it happened!


    While Sofia was exercising with her arm, Claire and Clark turned their back for the last time and looked at her retreating figure. They did not move their feet until they saw Sofia entered the school clinic.


    "Those bastards! I''ll make sure to destroy them in the game," Claire expressed angrily.


    "Calm down, Claire. Let''s just avoid the group for now. Sofia may have her plans." Clark instantly consoled her.


    Claire sighed in frustration. In the real world, they were far from their online persona. Even if Sofia''s tank was capable of taking all damages against their enemies, the player behind the character was as fragile as glass!


    "Okay," Claire agreed on Clark''s reminder and did not speak anymore. But, she was still upset about what had just happened. In her silence, she was cursing the male student, ''You better pray that we won''t meet in any form of the online match!''


    "See you, later! After this subject, let''s go and meet Sofia," Clark suggested when they both arrived at Claire''s classroom. They had different subjects, and Clark only accompanied her.


    "Sure," Claire chirped and forced a smile on her lips.


    She was really in a foul mood. The moment she entered, she maintained her head low and avoided all the eye contact with her classmates. Not that they were close to her for she only made few acquaintances to them.


    "Claire! Congrats on winning the tournament!"


    "Your assassin skills are terrifying in that game yesterday, Claire!"


    "Claire, you have no boyfriend, right? My big bro is interested in you and wants to ask your number!"


    The students quickly circled near Claire''s desk and asked her one question after another.


    "Thank you, guys! I was just fortunate to have a perfect lineup for my gameplay! And my squad is great," she smiled professionally at them. She had no choice but to push aside all negative emotions in her heart for she had an image to protect.


    "Yes! We are so lucky to be your classmate, Claire!"


    "That''s right! We are lucky!"


    Claire felt conflicted as more and more students gathered near her. "Guys, I am just like you. I am a student and not some powerful gamer. You can also perform those skills better than me!"


    "Claire I heard of the altercation with you and the group of Ash and Arthur. Did Ash really challenged you to play an assassin vs assassin match?" another female entered the room and noticed the commotion.


    Just as Claire was about to respond to her female classmate, their teacher entered the room and the entire place turned silent in a blink of an eye. Their attention quickly diverted to the teacher as their class discussion resumed.


    Claire leaned on the desk with one hand supporting her head, the other hand was playing on her pen. But after a while, a voice of Sofia rang on her thoughts, scolding her bad posture.


    ''Sit properly and don''t slouch!''


    Claire quickly adjusted her sitting position and sat properly. But no matter how she tried to listen to the teacher, her mind would replay the incident. In the end, she excused herself to use their restroom.


    The teacher also noticed her lack of attention but did not really call her out for her behavior. She could sense that her student was anxious. So, when Claire excused herself, the teacher quickly agreed.


    As Claire stepped out of her classroom, she strode few feet and contemplated whether she would go to the clinic or head directly to the restroom.


    "Yo!" the male student who grabbed Sofia suddenly emerged on the other corner, almost startling her in the process.


    Claire opened her mouth and wanted to speak at the male student, however, she remembered Sofia''s instruction.


    She gritted her teeth and turned around. Without any words, she walked away.


    "Wow! You''re head surely grow big after winning!" the male student stated, taunting her to talk back at him.


    ''Ignore, ignore, ignore,'' Claire repeated her chant and returned to the classroom instead of going away.


    Meanwhile, Sofia''s bruise was also treated with some cream in the clinic. The school nurse was an old lady and was gentle to her.


    "Aiyaa, next time, be careful not to bruise your skin," the nurse softly said as she assumed that Sofia may have hurt herself for being not careful.


    "I will. Nurse Joy, please make me a clinic report," Sofia requested.


    "Of course, I will issue you a clinic report. Let me just encode your name and other credentials in the system here," the nurse asserted and then sat in front of her computer.


    "Thank you, Nurse Joy. Sorry for the trouble," Sofia respectfully said.


    "No problem!" the nurse responded and then started typing on the keyboard. But as she looked at Sofia''s current schedule in her system, a frown slowly creased on her already wrinkled forehead.


    "You are in the night class?" the nurse asked, completely stopping what she was doing.


    "Yes, that''s right," Sofia nodded.


    "Then, you have no class this time. I don''t need to give you a clinic report. I''ll just update your file that you visited the clinic," the nurse stated.


    For some reason, this is their school clinic''s protocol. The document that Sofia was asking for would help her to be excused by her class. But since she was in the night class, she has nothing to use on it.


    "That could also do. But, I plan to head towards the guidance office after here. It is more convenient if I have the clinic report with me before I go there," Sofia stated.


    "Ha? Are you involved in trouble? Why do you need to go towards the guidance office?" the nurse felt alarmed. Now, she had realized that some students may be involved in her bruises.


    "A student grabbed me and caused this, Nurse Joy. So, I want to report him and discipline his outrageous behavior before it becomes worst," Sofia explained.


    With how she picked the proper words to speak, the school nurse immediately agreed and proceed to print her clinic report.


    "I will accompany you. Hmmph! Some of the students in this school had actually become violent!" the school nurse clenched her hand and offered her support.


    "I can''t do that, ma''am! I have troubled you enough!" Sofia blurted when she saw that the nurse was about to pick her jacket to head out of the clinic.


    "Why not? If I accompany you, then, the guidance counselor will surely sanction those responsible," the nurse reasoned.


    "But if another student would come here and needed your care, then, it would be a problem if you are out," Sofia debated.


    She appreciated that the nurse was willing to extend her help but it was not necessary and practical for her.


    By the time she turned her back to the male student who grabbed her, the incident was already wrapped in her palms. She was determined that those six students would learn their lessons.


    ''Since you made me waste my time and disrupted my plans for today, I''ll have you pay my time with a price doubled!'' Sofia mentally noted.


    On the other side, the school nurse sat back in her chair and also realized the situation Sofia pointed out. "Indeed, I am the only nurse. If I leave the clinic now, some emergencies may be neglected. But, I''ll warn you little girl, our guidance counselor is not really that friendly to students. If you needed my help to talk to the counselor, just tell me and I''ll definitely come to your aid!"

 Chapter 131 - Unfaltered

    Inside the guidance office, a woman with a striking eyeglasses on her face was reading a thick psychology book. She was using a highlighter pen to color some lines of the words on the page that she was reading when she heard a knock on the door.


    The woman looked up and consciously moved the wooden plate with her name carved in it.


    Ms. Irene Trice


    Guidance Counselor


    "Come in!" the woman responded and tucked the book below her desk. She also made sure that the wooden plate was in the center of her office table.


    "Hello, Ma''am Irene! My name is Sofia. I am a junior student in the night class," Sofia introduced herself the moment she stepped inside the office. She closed the door behind her and stood straight.


    The guidance counselor adjusted her eyeglasses and looked at Sofia in scrutiny. The lady appeared confident while standing in her office.


    All students subjected to the counselor''s sharp gaze would usually fidget and felt nervous. However, Sofia maintained her composure and eye contact with the guidance counselor.


    She appeared not intimidated at all.


    "Sofia! Have a seat, young lady!" the woman ordered.


    "Thank you," Sofia easily responded before she took a seat. Everything about Sofia''s sitting posture made the guidance counselor arched her brows.


    ''Which family is this student belonged?'' she secretly asked in mind. She approved of the proper etiquette that the young lady displayed.


    "It is rare for me to have a visitor from the night class. So, what brings you here?" the woman asked directly.


    "I came here to ask your help ma''am," Sofia started.


    "Of course, you are!" the woman smiled but there was a hint of sarcasm in her tone that Sofia easily noticed.


    "I have no position other than being a student in this school so my options are limited. But, with your help, I''m sure you can impose proper discipline on the six male students harassing my friend and almost dislocated my arm," Sofia responded calmly. Her calmness felt almost like a foreboding to the woman listening to her response.


    ''I have no position... my options are limited...'' the counselor repeated Sofia''s words in her head. She was an expert in psychology and she could tell if the student is threatening her or just plain arrogant. But with Sofia, this was not the case. It sounded like if she was in her position, she had already taken the matter with her own hand!


    A long silence engulfed the office while the guidance counselor just stared at Sofia. Suddenly, she found herself in disbelief of how the young lady had spoken with much more authority than any other person she had in her office before. Even most teachers would not dare talk to her with such a degree of eloquence.


    "Sofia, tell me the names of these students and I''ll call them to come here," the guidance counselor finally snapped and asked.


    "I have no complete names of these students. But, I caught a glimpse of an ID from the student who grabbed my arm. It''s Ash Martinez," Sofia answered.


    "Ash Martinez? T-this boy is a senior student. He is a frequent visitor here in my office but I''ll set your expectation... His uncle is a powerful political figure in our district. So, even I would not dare discipline this boy," the guidance counselor explained.


    Normally, she would brush off all the complaints that she had received in the past that involved Ash Martinez. She used various reasoning for the students not to pursue the complaint.


    But, the counselor sensed that if she would do the same approach to Sofia, it would not be productive. So, she conveniently told her the family background of the involved student.


    "I understand," Sofia nodded. Her hand slightly clenched at the clinic report that she was holding. Her tone did not change and there was also no emotion that can be read in her face.


    "You are a smart girl," the guidance counselor expressed. She suddenly felt a slight fear of how calm the student responded to her explanation.


    "Thank you for having me, Ma''am Irene. I''ll take my leave now," Sofia stood from her seat and quietly walked towards the door.


    The guidance counselor only stared at her back until the young lady pulled the door open.


    "Wait!" she suddenly called Sofia before she could step out of her office. For some reason, she felt a pang of guilt for not helping Sofia.


    So many students had already complained about Ash Martinez in her office but only Sofia''s reaction scared her. Calmness was indeed a powerful reaction. She could not read what the young lady was thinking. The uncertainty she felt was terrifying.


    "Young lady, please be careful," the woman added unsure of what really to advise to her.


    "Thank you, ma''am. Have a good day," Sofia finished and head out to the office.


    Few minutes after Sofia left the office, the school nurse barged into the guidance office completely startling the guidance counselor.


    "Irene, did the young lady come here to file a report?" the nurse asked.


    "Yes, she just left. I can''t help her," the counselor admitted.


    "Ohhh... here you go with that attitude. You are too cowardly to be in this office," the nurse criticized.


    "You can''t blame me. The school cannot offend the Martinez family," the guidance counselor defended. "But I think that the young lady understands my resolve," she quickly added.


    "Heh! Even if she understands your decision, does your position still have its significance in this school? You should be ashamed," the nurse shook her head in disappointment and left the guidance office with a loud bang on the door.


    "You have no right to say that to me!" the guidance counselor followed the nurse in haste.


    "You are right, just forget what I said. But, I like that student. I can see her resolute bearing when she asked for my clinical report of her bruise," the nurse randomly said.


    Resolute. Indeed, this was the exact description that the guidance counselor had also sensed when Sofia discussed her concern. Her tone was too firm giving her no room for argument.


    "I''ve explained to her the situation about the connection of Ash Martinez," the guidance counselor admitted.


    "I told the young lady that I will help her. But, that''s your office. I won''t intervene in your decision," the nurse coldly spoke and strode back to the school clinic.


    The guidance counselor took off her eyeglasses and exhaled all her frustration. Her chest felt heavy like she was also disappointed by her decision of dismissing Sofia right away.


    Political power was enough to make anyone retreat. But, these people in the government never dared disrespect nor offend Sofia in her past life. It did not scare her.


    After all, those with political power in their district were public servants. If they use their power to scare the civilians, then, it would be a direct betrayal of their oath. This was the very reason that Sofia was not faltered by any politician.


    However, she understood the situation of the guidance counselor, hence, she did not waste her time arguing.


    There are a hundred ways to solve a single problem. Instead of engaging in a verbal confrontation and criticized the counselor for her lack of dignity, Sofia had chosen to just walk away in her office calmly.


    Just as her initial plan, Sofia went to the school library. But instead of drafting a business plan, she made a quick research about the family background of Ash Martinez.


    With the help of the fast internet connection, she quickly found out that there was only one Martinez in their district. He was one of the district councilors. Lucas Martinez.


    Since their guidance counselor won''t help her, she would take the matter to the root of the problem.


    Ash Martinez was not the root of the problem. His behavior was just the effect of the special treatment he had received because of his connection with a politician relative.


    Sofia realized this matter right after the guidance counselor dismissed her concern. The right solution to her problem was to directly engage with the main source.


    The logic to this was just like a gaming strategy. When playing the online game, it would be utterly useless to attack the tank if the healer is continuously supporting the tank from behind. To be able to tackle down the tank, the healer must be dealt with first.


    And since District Councilor Lucas Martinez was a public servant, dealing with the matter would be a piece of cake.


    Sofia dialed the office number that she saw in her research. It was answered on the third ring of the call.


    "You have reached the office of Councilor Martinez, this is Imelda, his secretary," the woman on the other line stated enthusiastically.


    "Hello, Miss Imelda! This is Sofia. Can you set me an appointment to have a discussion with the councilor? It''s a civil matter and personal," Sofia started.


    "Councilor Martinez is free to speak anytime tomorrow, Sofia! You can come here in the office for your concern directly," the secretary immediately responded.


    "Oh, that''s good. Anyway, can you confirm an appointment for me? I''ll take the 9 am. It won''t belong. Just about half an hour," Sofia insisted. She did not know the arrangement of meeting politicians in district 7 but she had her own standard of having a formal meeting. If there is no confirm appointment there would be a tendency that she would be neglected when she arrived there.


    "Okay, I''ll confirm an appointment with you, ma''am. Please give me your complete name?" the secretary complied at her request without any objection.


    "Thank you. The name is Sofia D. Su," she responded before the two of them ended their conversation.

 Chapter 132 - [Bonus ]Silenced By Stephen

    Within the school grounds, the six male students that Sofia was targeting discussed the incident like a subject of entertainment. They comfortably sat on the bench that had a shade from the tallest tree in the vicinity.


    These students were teasing Ash for saying sorry to Sofia after he grabbed her arm.


    "I heard you apologized to that girl, bro! Hahaha," the man with messy hair started.


    "Ash was scared back there!" another one pointed out.


    "Shut up! I just want to play with that assassin user," Ash grimaced. He could not also explained why he said sorry towards Sofia. The words just slipped in his tongue!


    "Yeah, yeah, but you still said sorry! What a miracle! HAHAHA" his companions shrugged and looked at the other students walking. Their laughter grew louder and louder.


    "How hard is it to agree with my request? How could they have such a lame principle! Not playing games on school grounds? Which planet did they come from for having a ridiculous rule like that?" Ash consequently expressed his thoughts. He blamed Sofia for intervening in his discussion with Claire. In his mind, if Sofia did not meddle with his business, he would not also grab her in the arm.


    "I agree! It was pretty lame! Anyway Ash, there was no way that girl would complain. Look, no one had called you to go to the guidance office," one of them consoled him.


    "Who wants to mess up with the Martinez clan? Chill, no one will complain about your action, Ash!"


    While these six students were immersed in the same loop of discussion, a figure walked towards their bench.


    "That boy that had almost been expelled is approaching us," one of them was quick to notice Stephen''s figure. Despite their arrogance towards other students, they were actually frightened by Stephen for they knew his history in school. He just doesn''t compromise to things that he dislikes.


    "Hey, Stephen! Wazzup man!" Ash greeted when Stephen''s figure was few feet away from them. He pretended to act cool but all of them were actually tensed.


    "Martinez, you owe someone an arm," Stephen muttered. His voice was deep and threatening.


    As he closed their distance, Ash winced in pain while Stephen grabbed him out from his seat and twisted his arm. The cracking sound of the bone made the other student almost fainted.


    Ash had no time to process what transpired to him. He already felt the excruciating pain. In fact, there is someone who would dare to get even with him. It just did not came up the man in their mind... not until he approached them!


    "What the hell, man! Why did you attack our friend?" Ash''s companions took their courage and asked Stephen. But the man did not even turned around. He started walking like he had done nothing to them.


    "Hey, shhh! He is that marksman user in their squad," another companion noted.


    "He is?" Ash questioned. He was too focused on Claire''s gameplay during the tournament and none of them really expected Stephen to be in the Chronos squad.


    "Yes! Ahh! I forgot about it too. I should have reminded you guys earlier!" another student said.


    "Forget about it," Ash snarled and sprinted towards the school clinic. His companions followed his lead reluctantly.


    The school nurse was completely startled when the six students entered the clinic.


    "What happened? Is this some kind of student activity to hurt their arm now?" the nurse asked and quickly examined the shoulder of Ash.


    "AHHH!!! That frickin hurts!" Ash burst into a painful scream when the nurse tried to move his arm upwards.


    Hearing the pain of agony, the expression of the nurse turned dark. "You have completely dislocated some bone here. Tell me what happened! This is serious!"


    No one responded from the students. They just looked at one another and remained silent.


    These boys clearly had no guts of speaking even the name of Stephen to the nurse. They were afraid that he would hunt them down and also punished them.


    "I fall on the bench. It was an accident," Ash also made an alibi.


    "I''ll call for an ambulance to you so that the hospital would x-ray your arm. Just wait right here," the nurse hastily took her telephone and requested an ambulance.


    "I will call your parents too, young man," the nurse informed him. She was not buying the boy''s alibi but seeing how determined he looked despite the pain in his arm, the nurse did not press them further.


    Mrs. Martinez arrived several minutes after the nurse told her the incident of his son.


    "Ash! Ash! What happened?" the mother questioned.


    "I just slipped and fall on the bench, mom! Ahh... I dislocated my arm and it''s so painful!" Ash complained.


    "Okay, okay, your dad will be here soon. And the nurse told me that there will be an ambulance on the way here," Mrs. Martinez patted her son''s head a few times, consoling him of his injury. "Your friends can go back to their classes," she added.


    The other male student did not argue and went their way towards their classroom.


    "Ahh! What if that mad Stephen would come after us too?" one of them paused his moment and asked the possibility.


    "We did not do anything to that woman! There is no reason for him to hunt us on the school grounds! It was only Ash who grabbed that girl!!!" one student firmly guessed.


    As soon as they arrived at their classroom, they maintained their head lowered and sat at the back row of the seats.


    All of them tried to ignore their fear of Stephen. They silently prayed that the man would be reasonable to them.


    When Stephen entered the room, the entire corner went into a dead silence. They were both seniors and share the same class. So, the group shivered and docked their head below their desk.


    Meanwhile, Stephen sat on the chair properly. Usually, he would slump his body and sleep on the desk. But starting the time that Sofia told them to sit straight, her voice would quickly ring on his head scolding him not to slouch.


    None of the students also congratulated him. It was evident that his classmates were all frightened by Stephen.


    When their teacher arrived, the tense atmosphere around their classroom slowly returned to normal.


    "What happened to Ash? Why is he not here?" a small girl questioned to the regular companions of Ash Martinez.


    "Uhhm... Ash fell off the bench and he will be recuperating for weeks maybe. It''s not yet certain as to what degree he injured his arm. He''ll be in the hospital," the student with messy hair stated.

 Chapter 133 - The Demands Of Mrs. Martinez

    "Poor Ash... Now, what am I going to do with our project? He is my pair for the presentation tomorrow. Guys, take me with you if you''ll visit him in the hospital please?" the small girl stated. She gave the group a questioning look and waited for any of them to respond.


    "Yeah, we will visit him later, after class. Just come with us. But, it''s better if you''ll find a different partner. He will not be here tomorrow," another boy from the same group quickly suggested.


    "I almost forgot about the presentation tomorrow! You can join our group. Ash had it bad. It may take a month for him to heal. Tsk!"


    "Shhh, tone it down, man!" the one with messy hair stated. His eyes shifted in Stephen''s direction.


    With this signal, his friends quickly understood that their conversation may be overheard by Stephen and they may offend him. All of his friends nodded at him. They sat straight and directed their eyes to their teacher.


    "Then, I''ll go back to my seat," the small girl awkwardly said and went to the middle row.


    While these students focused their attention on the discussion of their teacher, Ash Martinez was also placed in the ambulance. His mother requested for him to be placed on a stretcher so that he could lie down comfortably. But, he insisted on just sitting.


    ''Tssk!!! Ahhh! F*****ck! It''s so painful! Argh!'' the boy mentally whimpered trying not to move his arm. He could only grit his teeth to conceal the extreme pain that he felt.


    He wanted to cry so bad. But because his mother already arrived at school, he forced himself to endure. If his mother would see him crying, the issue of his injury would grow big.


    Alas! It was fine if the one who caused his injury was another student. Ash would be very happy if his family would deal with all his problems in school.


    Unfortunately, it was a fellow student who had crushed all the exemptions that existed. This fellow student had a privilege that they could not understand.


    ''I just want to play one on one with their assassin! Damn! I did not know that this is the result of my request. What a stroke of bad luck did I step today that I actually forgot about Stephen''s connection to that squad!'' he reasoned on his head. For him, it was just a pure reflex when he grabbed Sofia''s arm.


    It was not his intention to hurt Sofia. But, he could not also justify the reason why his body reacted to such a reflex.


    ''If only Stephen was expelled, then, I would not face this humiliation and pain! That man is really a problem that is hard to take! I''m doomed!'' Ash continued to lament his situation in his head.


    He remembered that almost all students were ecstatic before when the rumors about Stephen''s expulsion were leaked in their forums. Heck, there were even other students who were willing to throw a party because of it.


    It''s not that the students disliked Stephen. In fact, most girls'' population fantasized about him being their boyfriend. He had his own fans in school. But the male population just felt that Stephen was dangerous and brings nothing but bad influence to the students in school. Hence, they wanted him removed from their school.


    When the headmaster of the school announced that Stephen won''t be suspended nor expelled, they instantly assumed that he had special privileges. It was something that they must not provoke.


    Such assumptions were actually created by all the senior students. They thought that Stephen may be involved in a powerful fraternity outside the school. And the faculty member of their school does not want to anger those frat leaders.


    But the reality was far from their wild assumptions. If they would probably find out the reason why Stephen was not expelled, they would surely kowtow to Sofia and treat her like an elder!


    "So, Ash... how do you feel with your arms as of this moment?" an attendant who accompanied him inside the ambulance inquired about his condition. This man is just about in his mid-twenties and was wearing a uniform of interns.


    "It''s sh*t! I don''t know of the proper term but its really painful! I heard my bone cracked when I fell," Ash responded.


    "Hmmn... This tablet will ease the pain in your arm," the attendant handed a medicine. Without hesitation, Ash quickly took the medicine and a bottle of water.


    "How did you fall on the bench? I don''t see any bruises on your skin that are caused by an impact on the ground. You have no scratches either," the attendant asked in a respectful tone.


    Ash glared at the attendant and his face instantly turned sour upon hearing the question. "How else would someone fall on a bench?"


    "Well, maybe you can just describe what happened earlier so I can write it in my initial assessment on you," the attendant stated not minding the sharp gaze of the boy that was directed at him.


    "It''s pretty simple. I slipped on the bench and next thing I knew, I''m on the ground and my arm is in pain," Ash responded in a tone that lacked interest.


    The attendant stared at him. He wanted to tell the boy how ridiculous this description was. But, for the sake of professionalism, he just slightly tilted his head and did not speak anymore.


    ~


    Meanwhile, Mrs. Martinez, the mother of Ash, went to the guidance office to confront the school about what had happened to his son.


    "Ms. Trice, can you explain to me why my son had injured his arm?" Mrs. Martinez instantly demanded right after she entered the guidance office.


    "Please have a seat, Mrs. Martinez. I''m sorry for what happened to your son, but, according to him, he accidentally fell. I don''t know what kind of explanation you want from my office," Irene calmly responded. She clasped her hand thinking how the boy may have faced his karma directly.


    Mrs. Martinez moved forward and slammed her palm on the desk. "Look, this is stupid! How could my son got that injury if he just fell out from a bench? It''s stupid!"


    "Please calm down. I am not a doctor of medicine, Mrs. Martinez. I am a doctor of psychology. So I can''t explain why your son injured his arm after falling on the bench," Irene stated. She then took her eyeglasses and leaned her shoulder comfortably.


    "I don''t care!" Mrs. Martinez expressed loudly.


    "The doctors in the hospital will surely give you an accurate explanation," Irene stated.


    "I don''t know if you are a fool or what, Ms. Trice! I"m telling you, that''s not what happened and if you don''t address this incident, I''ll make sure you''ll pay for it!" the mother of Ash was fuming. She also refused to take a seat and continued to point her index finger to the guidance counselor who sat on the opposite chair.


    "Pay for it? What do you mean, Mrs. Martinez?" Irene furrowed her eyebrows upon hearing the threats from the student''s mother.


    She had dealt with so many angry people in her office. Some were students, others were faculty members, and then there were also parents or guardians. She was already immune to hearing nasty ranting like what the mother of Ash was doing in front of her.


    "Bah! I know that my son would not break his arm just by falling on a bench! It''s stupid! There is a foul play here!" Mrs. Martinez insisted.


    "Mrs. Martinez, your son is not stupid. He is already 19 too. If he says that the cause of his injury was an accident, we can do nothing about it," Irene calmly explained. She even reminded the woman of the age of her son for her to reflect on her action.


    "Useless! If there is nothing that you can do, then you are unqualified to work here!" Mrs. Martinez yelled and grabbed the wooden plate on the desk. In a blink of an eye, the object flew across the room as the woman threw it away.


    The guidance counselor stood from her seat and her face flushed with annoyance and irritation. Seeing that the wooden plate containing her name was split in a half, her mind turned dark.


    After all the favor that she had given to Ash Martinez, she could not believe that his mother would actually act haughtily in her office.


    "This is not about my qualification as a guidance counselor of this school, Mrs. Martinez. Since your son is not willing to speak this matter to his own mother, I think this is about your qualification as the mother of your son," Irene stated. Ha! There was no way she would let the bad attitude pass. Now that their subject of discussion was about qualification, she easily defended her reputation by using the mother and son relationship.


    Mrs. Martinez glared at Irene with full of disbelief. Then, she stormed out of the office and shut the door with force.


    "This woman does not know how to express proper gratitude! I obviously covered her son for so many things but what I get was an insult!" Irene clenched her fist angrily while staring at the door of her office. She then picked the pieces of wood on the floor and blankly stared at her scribbled name on it.

 Chapter 134 - Rumors Around The School

    When the regular class ended, the news about a student being involved in an accident spread among all senior students. Not long after, the juniors also learned about the incident until it reached to the students in lower years.


    "It was Ash Martinez! He actually broke his arm in the bench near that big tree!"


    "No wonder I saw an ambulance in our school parking space earlier. So, his condition must be serious?"


    "Of course! His friends say that he accidentally fell off the bench! And those who had witnessed it also said that there are other beings involved."


    "Well, if it''s that big tree on the school grounds, it may be some spirits. Some students said that they had sightings of the white lady in that area!"


    "W-white lady? Could it be some paranormal activity? After all, there are rumors about the haunted area of our school! Now, I''m having goosebumps!"


    Sofia''s friend joined her in the library when they overheard the current talks of the students sitting near their table.


    The other students were caught by their conversation that they had forgotten the place where they were talking. Although they are inside the library, their voices were almost as if they were not.


    The gossip was about Ash Martinez. Joey, who was situated on the floor sitting comfortably like a Buddha did not pay much attention to the students. He was busy playing with his mobile phone and did not bother listening to them.


    On the other side, Clark and Claire were joining on a mini table. Upon hearing the subject of discussion from the other students, they looked at each other and communicated using their eyes.


    Surely, they had not forgotten about the man who challenged her for a one on one match earlier. ''Wasn''t it the infamous male student who grabbed Sofia''s arm because he wants to play an assassin vs assassin?''


    The two nodded and looked wary.


    That male student offended them for hurting Sofia. But, since Sofia told them to avoid the group, they did not pursue their anger towards the group.


    Was it just a coincidence or perhaps karma? Such things were running wildly in their thoughts.


    Meanwhile, Sofia was standing in the rows of books trying to find the articles that she needed.  She was tracing the side of the books and read their faded titles one by one.


    Her position was nearest to the students who were gossiping loudly. Since their group was at the farthermost corner area of the library where some old books were placed, the librarian had noticed them yet.


    "Ash Martinez," Sofia lowered her gaze and was in deep thought for a while. Then, she looked at the group of students using her peripheral view.


    After the name of the boy was mentioned, Sofia deliberately moved nearer to their table and listened to their conversation until the students reached the conclusion of some paranormal activity.


    Joey who looked uninterested suddenly stood from the floor. His face turned pale as if he was scared by something.


    He quickly grabbed a chair and also opened the topic to express his opinion. "A terrible accident happened earlier. A male student broke his arm and they said that some ghost was responsible for it!"


    Claire''s body slightly quivered as she was trying her best not to laugh at Joey''s face. It was too obvious that the conversation about ghosts had scared him!


    "What nonsense! There is no ghost in a broad daylight!" Claire muttered.


    "Ah! You are right, Claire!" Joey nodded his head several times. Based on how quick he responded, his friends could tell that he was totally tensed.


    "Are you scared?" Clark playfully asked him with a small grin on his lips.


    "W-what? M-me? No way!" Joey instantly denied anything about his fears.


    "Hehe, you look like you have seen a ghost!" Claire giggled.


    "Tsk! I just don''t know where these rumors started but the other students really believe that the accident was caused by a ghost! Did you hear those groups talking about it?" Joey dramatically gasped.


    "Well, the ghosts are only awake in the dark places. The sun is still up. So, it''s impossible for it to be the cause of his broken arm," Claire shrugged.


    "Indeed! Who knows?" Joey mumbled when he realized that the accident did not occur at night. If the ghost or paranormal activity would be involved, shouldn''t it be during the evening?


    "Those gossips cannot be trusted. But, did he really broke his arm that the ambulance needed to get him to the hospital?" Clark cautiously asked.


    "Yes! His friends were adamant that he fell from the bench and twisted his arm," Joey answered and glanced at Sofia. "What do you think about the paranormal rumors, Sof?"


    Sofia slowly moved her feet towards them and sat on the empty chair. She placed few thin magazines on their table.


    "It could be true," she replied.


    It''s not that she entirely believed in the existence of ghosts. If it was in her past life, she would probably laugh about it. She had never seen nor get involved in paranormal activity.


    But, with her situation being transmigrated after her death to the teenage body, she would not ignore the possibility. Such a chance may really occur even if not everyone believed it.


    "Wait, you believe in the rumors?" Claire questioned.


    "Hmm, do you guys believe that after our death, the soul will transfer to another body?" Sofia subtly tested them.


    "No way! We will go there," Joey answered while his index finger was pointing above.


    "Right. It''s the same as the existence of ghosts in this school. It could be real. It could be fake. Only those who had experienced it would really confirm if they exist," Sofia easily responded. She then opened the old magazine and started flipping the pages on it.


    "That''s right. Only experience can justify its existence," Clark agreed.


    "Ash Martinez, how is he?" Sofia diverted their attention to the student instead of the existence of the ghost.


    "Well, there were so many students in the school ground at that time when he broke his arm. But, not a single one of them saw what really happened. Or at least, that what those students claimed," Joey narrated what he had heard from his class too.


    To say, the rumors about paranormal activity had started from the other students who witnessed the incident of Stephen approaching Ash. Because they fear that Stephen would go after them, they only told the other students that they did not see anything. And that Ash only shrieked in pain after he fell on the bench.


    When the guidance counselor also made an interrogation among the friend''s group of the boy, they supported the claim and stated that it was purely an accident.


    Now, the ghost of the big tree seemed to have gained popularity in the entire school.


    "I see," Sofia nodded. She then took a pen in her bag and focused on the magazine. "By the way, did Stephen contact any of you?" she casually added.


    Claire pouted and shook her head. "No, I did not receive any message from Stephen. Is there a problem, Sof?"


    Since it was only Joey and Sofia who had seen Stephen being escorted by his father''s bodyguards, Claire and Clark were totally unaware of the situation.


    "Last night, we met Stephen''s father after we exited the victory party," Sofia told them.


    "Oh!" Claire reacted and looked Sofia in the eye. "What happened then?"


    "Stephen may not be the person that he had portrayed in the past days that we have known him," Sofia responded without looking at them. Her face was still buried in front of the magazine.


    "What is it? Oh no! I remember some students before called Stephen a frat boy. Is his father part of a gang? Maybe a gang boss?" Clark anxiously asked.


    "G-gang boss?" Sofia finally looked up.


    "Yes! Because Stephen is very unruly and just follows his own principles, the other student believed that maybe he is in frat or gang," Clark responded.


    "No, I don''t think he is. Last night, Stephen''s father approached us and took him," Sofia stated.


    "And he was escorted by three bodyguards. Guys, Stephen is rich! Just like you Clark," Joey added with a slight excitement and worry on his face.


    "Ohh... I am not really surprised if he is rich," Clark mumbled.


    "Really? Why not?" Claire questioned.


    "It''s because one time when I saw him smoking, he was using a classy lighter. It''s similar to the Dunhill gold apex. Only those who had a high social status had those in their collection," Clark answered.


    "But you don''t smoke! Or do you?" Claire expressed with a slight skepticism in her tone.


    "No, I don''t smoke. But my brother, James, smokes. And one time, we went to this collector shows. It has vapes, cigars, ashtrays, lighters, and other kinds of classy stuff," Clark narrated and observed Claire''s reaction carefully.


    "Stephen is actually not in the house where he lived. I went there this morning. It was shut close. Maybe, he left in district 7 last night?" Joey also speculated.

 Chapter 135 - Map Check For Business Planning

    "Is it true, Sof? Stephen has a wealthy background?" Clark inquired while his eyes were consequently shifting from Sofia to Joey.


    District 7 had only a few wealthy families. And these families knew each other. Just like the Lee Clan, where Brent, the founder of Lee Gaming Squad belongs.


    Clark had only heard of negative rumors from Stephen. And all rich family in the district also forbid their children from hanging out with him because of the bad things that he had done. The boy had a history of being a delinquent.


    But, if he is from a wealthy family, there is no way for the other rich parents to forbid him!


    "I can''t confirm Stephen''s background. Let''s respect him if he wants to keep his personal life private. He may not be comfortable talking about their social status," Sofia told her group.


    "Yes, that''s right. If Stephen wants to keep it a secret, then let''s not pry on it," Clark agreed. But there is still a small voice in his head who felt troubled.


    "Why do you look so anxious?" Claire suddenly asked him after she realized that Clark looked like he had something more to say.


    "Err... Uhhm, well..." Clark stuttered. He was completely hesitant whether to speak his mind or just keep it.


    "I know," Sofia suddenly said as if she had fully comprehended the emotions that Clark felt at that moment. She offered a warm smile to him to encourage the boy to speak.


    "Ehem, I think that the wealthy families in district 7 are aware of the bad reputation that Stephen had. Even my father scolded me before for joining our squad because he is part of the group. So, I am not sure if there is a family in district 7 that recognizes him as rich," Clark finally expressed.


    The reality of their district was that the rich and powerful clans were thoroughly respected. So, no matter if the children behave badly, the people would still be lenient to them.


    However, that was not the case with Stephen. He was feared and scorned by most wealthy families. The rich girls who expressed their love interest to him were quickly reprimanded by their parents for the reason that there is no future of pursuing the man. They would never accept to have him as part of their family.


    "Aiiyaa, are you even listening to me? I just said that Stephen may no longer be in our district," Joey pouted and reminded Clark of what he initially speculated.


    "Ohh, you meant that Stephen''s family is not from district 7?" Clark ask as he finally had a grasp of where their conversation would be going to.


    "Yes! His father had told us his identity. Well, this is after he insulted us," Joey


    "How did Stephen''s father insulted you? How come I did not know of this?" Claire questioned and raise her brows to Sofia.


    "Well, this was last night. I had forgotten most of it," Sofia casually reasoned out.


    "Stephen''s father said that we are nothing but commoners. He was facing Sofia when he said it. But, I felt that I am included in his message since I am also a commoner," Joey answered. "He even said that we should stay away from his son!" he quickly added.


    "Ohh? Then, which district did Stephen''s father from? Did he tell you?" Clark inquired.


    "It''s from district 5. There is no doubt, his family is a wealthy one. The man was escorted by three elite bodyguards. When they approached Stephen, he complied without saying a word," Sofia recounted while some memories of last night flashed in her mind. She remembered the melancholic face that Stephen had when he walked away from them. For sure, the man had his reason for staying silent.


    "Wow!" both Claire and Clark exclaimed together. They felt like they had not witnessed an important event of their group last night.


    "So, if Stephen is no longer in district 7, what will happen to our squad?" Claire asked. There were only five of them. If Stephen would stop communication with the group, they had no one to replace him!


    "Stephen is a good marksman for sure. It would be our loss if he won''t contact us again," Joey also lamented.


    The group suddenly felt forlorn. If Stephen would leave them, they will need to start from the beginning and recruit a new member.


    Sofia crossed her arms on her chest while observing the expressions of her team. Then, she gently shook her head three times. "I''m sure Stephen had his reasons," she repeated.


    While the group was fully absorbed by the possibility of losing a member of their squad, the man that was the subject of their discussion entered casually in the library.


    He looked at all the tables and spotted them in the most corner area of the room.


    As his feet moved towards their direction, the students who had noticed him quickly looked down at their books.


    Even those group of students who were gossiping about the paranormal activity near them went in complete silence. Upon noticing Stephen, they abruptly ended their chitchats and pretended to get busy reading the random books they had pulled from the shelves.


    "My gosh, let''s call Stephen! Why are you acting like he had passed away!" Sofia scolded when she felt that there was a grieving aura on their table.


    "B-but Sof, what if he won''t answer your call? What are we going to do? Shall we pay him a visit in district 5?" Clark asked simultaneously.


    Stephen cleared his throat to interrupt the serious conversation of the group. "Who are you visiting in the 5th district?" he casually asked and pulled a chair to sat beside Sofia.


    "EHH? WHY ARE YOU HERE?!" Joey exclaimed in surprise.


    In an instant, the librarian sprinted on their table and scolded them badly.


    "This is the library! Are you blind? Can''t you read all these signs plastered all over the walls?!"


    Their librarian was a lady the same age as Jing Jing. Her face was so dark when she reached their table. She then placed her arms on her waist and glared at Joey in particular.


    Joey covered his mouth using his palm as he also realized his mistakes. He looked apologetic and bowed at the librarian, "I was just overcome with my excitement, ma''am! I''m sorry!"


    "Don''t apologize to me. Go and apologize to the students that you have disturbed!" the librarian demanded.


    "Ehh... but, they seemed to not mind. If I speak again, they will be fully disturbed," Joey suddenly said when no student was looking in their direction.


    "HAH! That''s indeed odd. Then, don''t shout again or I will drag your group out of the library and banned you for coming back!" the librarian warned and returned to her post.


    This librarian expected that many students would complain about Joey''s noise, disturbing their study. However, everyone inside the library feigned ignorance. Only the librarian was actually reacting to it.


    Joey was also confused. He looked around and was silent for a while. Then understanding dawned upon him, he promptly recovered from his confusion and realized the real reason why no student was complaining about his noise...


    It was not because the students did not felt disturbed. But, it was because there were too afraid to even look at Stephen.


    "Ohh damn! Even the librarian did not kick me out and just warn me. Bro, it is very efficient to have you. Please don''t leave the team," Joey dramatically said while staring at Stephen.


    "Hehe, could it be that you are talking about me?" Stephen asked and gently nudged at Sofia. Then, his eyes swiftly moved to the arm with a bruise.


    "We are talking about our coincidental meeting with your father. And why did you not contact any of us since last night?" Sofia asked him.


    "I contact Joey last night. But our conversation was cut off. Anyway, what happened to your arm?" Stephen pretended not to know a thing.


    "Oh, there was a student who asked me to fight for assassin vs assassin. We politely declined but he insisted. Then, when Sofia intervened, he grabbed her arm. I was also angry but because Sofia said to just ignore the group, so we did not really make it a big of a deal" Claire responded before Sofia could speak. She then worriedly asked her, "You are fine now, Sof? The clinic give you medicine and treatment?"


    "Yeah, the nurse accommodated me well. I''ll just have to do some errand tomorrow," Sofia answered with a small smile on her face.


    "Really?" Stephen continued with a tone that meant he was not fully convinced.


    "Ahh... bro, chill! That boy had also got his instant karma," Joey stated and started narrating all the gossips that he had gathered around.


    "That''s good," Stephen mumbled.


    A small smirk formed on his lips. Based on the words of Joey, he confirmed that no one ranted him about the accident fa?ade.


    He casually took the magazine that Sofia was reading and look at the content. The page of the magazine was actually a map of district 7.


    "I''m planning our location if we start a business," Sofia casually said when Stephen cast her a questioning look about the page of the magazine.

 Chapter 136 - Laying Out Their Business Options (1)

    "Ohhh... Why study in this magazine and not just search it on the internet?" Stephen curiously asked. His fingers were continuously flipping the pages.  In his mind, it would be more convenient to look for good locations if Sofia had searched them online.


    "This magazine has more detailed, reliable, and credible opinions about the district 7. They filtered all contents before publishing them. On the internet, I might just trouble myself with misleading information," Sofia said, her elbow rested on the table while her hand supported her head. Then, she looked at all her members in the eye.


    Surely the internet gives convenience than an articled written in a piece of paper. But, she was completely aware that it would also be so easy to fabricate anything on the internet. To make a place look nice could be done in just a single filter. And there are many fake accounts that could easily support something that is purely not authentic. This was one of the many reasons why she was not active in social media before.


    "Ah, that makes sense," Stephen muttered a response. He then looked at the content and started reading.


    "So, what do you need us to do, Sof?"Clark inquired seeing that Sofia had something set for them.  Then, he suddenly remembered something that he was also concerned about, "You know, there is a streamer on our social media official page that is actually calling out for you to fight her, Sof. There is an ongoing debate of whether you''ll accept her challenge or not."


    "I''ve seen the post myself. That Krista19 user started last night before I went to sleep," Sofia responded.


    "Oh, I see," Clark softly whispered. He had not seen the entire posts for it was already buried along with other replies.


    "Be careful and watch out for those kinds of streamers who used subtle and wicked schemes just for their views and fame. It''s better to handle them professionally and profit from them," Sofia said. This matter had almost slipped her mind. In fact, she was no longer thinking about the issue of the streamer. It was only when Clark mentioned it that she was reminded about it.


    "There are really shameless people that exist everywhere," Clark sighed and shook his head in disappointment. He also understood the hidden goal of the streamer that was provoking Sofia in social media. It was too obvious that they don''t need to be an expert investigator to seen through her schemes.


    "I''ll handle that girl later. I have something more important in my mind," Sofia said.


    "Haha, I''d really look forward for that girl to deliver a public apology. She had been trash talking about you whole day! How clueless!" Joey grinned.


    "Since we are all here now, let''s talk about the prize money that we obtained and how to use it. We can split it if you want to take the cash. Or, we will use it in full under our squad," Sofia started.  She straightened her back and sat properly.


    "How do we use it in full, Sof?" Joey questioned.


    "Earlier, I have asked sister Jing to open a joint account for us under the Chronos squad. It is because we have a contract under their press company. So, our income in the contract would go there directly. We can use that account to put the prize money that we won. Anyway, we will be sharing the money equally," Sofia explained.


    "I don''t have much experience in dealing business. But, the financial literacy seminar that we had attended last time gave me some ideas about it," Joey responded. His face was full of eagerness and enthusiasm as he looked at Sofia.


    "Let''s start this business, Sof. Hehe," Clark slightly chuckled. For some reason, he could not feel even a tiny bit of hesitation with the idea that they would start their business.


    "Yeah, me too! And Sof, I am just worried. Are we sure about this? We will really open to start our business now?" Claire asked. Her expression was opposite to Clark and Joey''s excitement. There was a bit of reluctance in her tone.


    "What''s wrong with starting now?" Sofia asked her.


    "I don''t think that we are ready. I mean, we are still young. What if we fail? Our money will be wasted," Claire explained.


    "Ah, it''s just money. It is meant to be spent. One way or another, we will lose it in our hands. But, it is better if we let it flow. Spend the money and let it come back doubled," Sofia easily stated.


    Claire suddenly felt like Sofia was from another planet. How could her friend have this kind of principle? It was as if Sofia is not worried about the money if they will lose it!


    Seeing that Claire looked completely at loss, Sofia offered a sympathetic smile to her.


    "Failure is always part of the business industry. The trick of conquering failure is to learn where you failed and avoid losing again. This is just like we are playing the game. There is no certainty of victory during our match. But in the end, why do we still play?" Sofia asked them.


    "Because it''s fun," Claire was the first to answer. The rest of the boys also nodded their heads in agreement with Claire''s response.


    "Exactly! Even if winning is not guaranteed in every match, we still play because we are having fun. There is pleasure in engaging in business, guys. Especially when our money starts to roll," Sofia glanced at Claire and then gestured Stephen to hand the magazine back to her.


    "I don''t know. It seems that there is too much work to do in business. And we are still students, so, yeahhh..." Claire expressed as she thought that they were still green in the field.


    "I''m not going to say that there is no work. We must hustle to earn more. But the work will be worth it, Claire. Imagine when you are using your assassin in the jungle to level up your character. Grinding EXP in the game and in business is all the same, but in real life, we will be farming money in our profit. Just imagine how exciting it would be to join the corporate world." Sofia understood that it would be easier if she would relate gaming in business for these teens in front of her were more adept in gaming.


    She completely understood where Claire''s doubt came from. Perhaps, the idea of their group engaging in a more serious responsibility was too overwhelming for their young minds.


    But, for Sofia, if they waited for another year to pass before starting their business, it would be a waste of time.


    "Okay, I guess we don''t need to wait. There is no better time to start that today, hehe," Claire smiled sheepishly at them.


    "This is still your decision, guys. I won''t force you into joining me. But I hope, you will." Sofia stated. At the back of her mind, she genuinely wished that these people would take the opportunity that she was offering to them.


    The other four members looked at one another and were silent for a long time.


    "If you are hesitant, we will still be squadmates. The money of every income in the future game will be split and you guys can take your share," Sofia added when no one said anything. She suddenly had a feeling that her group may felt wary that they would not be part of the Chronos squad if they won''t agree to her.


    "We will join you, Sof. Hehehe It would be epic when our squad would become a corporation. That''s just too cool!" Joey finally said. He already imagined himself wearing a tux and drinking a glass of champagne.


    "We will follow your plan, Sof," the other three said in unison.


    "By the time we graduate and go to college, we might have a steady cash flow," Sofia told them.


    "Sof, do we have a business advisor that will give us guidance?" Clark inquired while thinking about her mother. The business companies that her mother was handling are not simple. And the reason why these companies reached where they are now was because of her mother.


    "Right now, we can''t afford to hire an advisor. Once we expand and stabilize our income, we will get an advisor. Are you thinking about your mother''s line of work?" Sofia guessed.


    "Yes, I am. I''m just curious if we also need an advisor," Clark explained.


    Sofia nodded to acknowledge Clark''s concern.


    But in reality, Sofia alone is enough to decide their business ventures. She was a peerless figure in her past life and she had known most of the business events that would unfold in the next years to come. With the right resources and her past memory, it would be more than enough for them to go directly towards the top.


    "I went strolling in our district earlier with sister Jing to see the situation of our community so we can start a small business. I have seen several opportunities for us to initiate our ventures. These are our options," Sofia said. She then pulled the mobile phone to check all the photos that she had taken earlier.

 Chapter 137 - Laying Out Their Business Options (2)

    "This one is just between the intersection street. We can open a shop or maybe a hostel? Like a dining place and with accommodation but not as big as a hotel," Sofia stated. On the screen of her phone was a building with three floors that was recently up for sale. The owner of the property was selling the entire building and land.


    The four members nodded as if they understood her words. Sofia could only secretly pray that these teens had at least a small idea of what she was talking about.


    "I know that place, Sof. That''s a restaurant but the owner was being harassed by some gangs. So, they decided to terminate their business in that area and sell the property instead," Clark informed her.


    "G-gangs?" Sofia was slightly taken aback. She had not calculated the possibility of gangs for she never had a problem with it in her past life. The environment that she had was completely safe and secure.


    Sofia looked to the magazine and check for specific commentaries about the location. It was indeed what Clark had said. There were riots and gang fights in the location of the property. District 7 was nothing similar to District 2 when it comes to having good protection!


    "Yes," Clark nodded. Then his eyes shifted to Stephen. "The people also said that you are a member of this gang."


    Stephen scowled deeply, "No, I have no affiliations with fraternity or gangs. I don''t know who had spread these rumors but I''m not involved in them."


    "Well, about these groups, do you know how many members are involved in the gang riots? Maybe we can lure them to become our potential customers?" Sofia asked.


    Joey shook his head after hearing Sofia''s question. "Oh, that''s too dangerous! The police are already tired of those troublemakers that they could not care less anymore. So, they encourage the business owner of the area to just find another place for their business,"


    With their current situation, it was true that they had no authority against any gangs that would make in trouble for them. But, Sofia had already countless ideas to deal with the gangsters.


    "What if we hire those gangs to work for us? It''s evident that they had nothing better to do, then, let''s give them something that they would be busy for?" Sofia stated.


    "Those were older than us. Mostly out of college guys who had problems with their families," Joey described anxiously.


    "I see. Well, why don''t we have a trip over there tonight? Let''s see the situation of these gang fights," Sofia eagerly suggested.


    "Haha, sure! That would be a good trip. My father''s bodyguards are outside. I could put them in use," Stephen joked.


    "Ohh, that''s exciting! I''ll inform my father first and ask his permission," Clark muttered before he took his phone and started typing.


    "Okay, so, let''s not dwell on that business. There are still a lot of options for us to pursue," Sofia continued. One by one, she scrolled the photos in her gallery and showed them to them.


    Just like the first location, she diligently explained to her group the description of the place and the advantage if they choose to open a business on it.


    She started showing them a stall and describing the possibilities of opening a small eatery, then a small pet shop. After a while, she engaged the group to a bigger possibility.


    "I also noticed that our district has only one bank and no gasoline station. Also, not much of real estate properties here," Sofia mentioned.


    She really made a thorough survey of their district and analyze all the possible ventures as their starting point. No corner nor alley was skipped by her eyes.


    A business may look like a complicated commitment in the long run but it actually starts with observing what is lacking within the area that she planned to build her business. It was turning her observation into a vision. Like gazing at a badly damaged house and imagining it to be a luxury hotel.


    "Ohh, I think that there is no need to have a gas station in the district because there is already one located just on the boundary of districts 7 & 8. So, we only get gas there," Clark answered. Wait, you are not thinking of opening one, right?" he quickly added.


    "That''s part of our option. There are so many cars coming into our street every day. Having a gasoline station is also a good market in this place," Sofia answered.


    "But, what if no one will come to us and they will continue to buy their gas at the district boundary?" Clark asked.


    "People love convenience. If the service if near and easy to access, they would choose it," Sofia said.


    "That''s true! How about the bank, Sof? It''s also part of our option? Wow! I have never thought of it," Joey scratched the back of his neck while asking Sofia.


    "Yes, it''s an option but not right now. We have to learn the ways in banking, especially with the different currency systems and paperwork. And we need to pull investors to use our bank. Right now, I''m am just showing you guys the options that we have so we can pick something that is in our best interest," Sofia asserted.


    "If it''s you, Sof, what would you open? I never thought of this kind of thing and now you have widened my horizon!" Joey expressed.


    "The location with gang fights is interesting. And people right now, in general, are interested in traveling. So, we can start by converting the place to a hostel. But, if things won''t come easy, we can open a gaming shop in another location. The gas station is also good, we can look for the available franchise---" Sofia was suddenly interrupted by a bell that hinted to her that it was already time for her to attend night classes.


    "Oh, it''s your class, Sof!" Clark also announced.


    "Yes, let''s resume this discussion another time. For now, ask your father about our plans tonight, Clark. You too and you. It''s important to inform them. "  she said while gazing at Joey and Claire.


    "I''ll go home and change my outfit first," Joey said.


    "Go ahead, let''s meet later. I''ll see you guys when my classes end," Sofia said and stood from her seat. She waved her hand at them before she left their table.

 Chapter 138 - An Odd Instinct

    The group went to their separate ways to make an individual preparation for their plans.


    Clark went to hang out with Claire''s unit when he received a response from his father, forbidding him to join their plans. But he reasoned that he would only stay in the car and observe the area. With much persistence from his side, his father had no choice and conceded.


    "Be sure to stay in your car and tell your driver that the vehicle must be far from the area. This is so foolish! I can''t believe I am allowing you this! Hmmph! And if something bad happens to you, young man, I will make sure that your friends will pay for it!" his father stated his condition after realizing that his son had already decided.


    "No, we will stay out of trouble dad. We just want to observe some things later," Clark responded.


    "What do you mean, stay out of trouble? Have you gone delusional? You and your friends are marching towards trouble, Clark! If you want to stay out of trouble, just go home already!" his father retorted.


    "Ahh! But, I don''t want to miss this. My friends are coming! I want to come along with them, dad!" Clark repeated.


    "Bah! I thought that those friends are decent! It turns out that they are black wolves in sheep''s clothing! Now, you are being influenced by them!" Clark''s father argued in the other line. His anger was evident in his voice.


    There would be no father that would let their son to go to some ridiculous plans that could possibly harm him. His anger had almost evolved to rage when he realized that he could not convince his son to go home.


    "Nevermind! It would be a good lesson for you if something happens. Don''t cry if you''ll get hurt and caught in between the chaos of gang fights!" his father finished and hung up. His voice turned cold as he felt an intense pain pounding in his head.


    ''I have spoilt that son too much! But maybe, he will see the unpleasant side of the real world and be cautioned about it in the future,'' the father firmly thought trying to convince himself of the positive side of Clark''s willfulness.


    Claire on the other hand, just got the approval of her parents when she told them their plans. She quickly wore a more casual outfit and return to Clark who was just sitting on her Sofa.


    "What is your parents'' reaction?" Clark inquired after she sat beside him.


    "My mother and father somehow supported every decision I make as long as I am not alone. They only told me to take care. How about your father? He was okay with you coming along?" Claire responded.


    "Yeah, after a few words, my father agreed," Clark chuckled.


    "Cool!" Claire nodded her head and casually check the trends in social media.


    "Is it still the same issue? The poll about Sofia and that streamer is still ongoing?" Clark asked her after he saw the mobile screen. It showed seven digits of both sides and agreeing and disagreeing about the poll.


    "This streamer is not simple. She actually managed to pull fans on her side despite her dirty tricks!" Claire expressed.


    "Nah, I doubt if those people are her fans. Maybe they just want to see drama on social media. And this streamer is giving them the entertainment that they were looking for," Clark shrugged and leaned his head comfortably.


    Claire continued scrolling and the two settled in a pleasant silence. After half an hour, Joey turned up and joined the two.


    "I think I''ll take a small nap at this table, Claire," Joey comfortable prompt his head and leaned on the table. He then closed his eyes and did not bother waiting for Claire to respond.


    "You''re sleepy at this early hour?" Clark inquired.


    "AH, my ex-girlfriend had disturbed me with so many calls last night. I did not get any decent sleep," Joey explained without moving a tiny bit from his position.


    Claire looked up and glanced at Joey. Then she shifted her gaze to Clark. "Do you want to take a nap too?" she asked.


    "No, I''m fine. I had a great sleep after we left the victory party last night," Clark said and offered a gentle smile at her.


    "Mmnn," Claire hummed and smiled back before her attention returned to the social media drama.


    While these three were waiting in the apartment, Sofia was also caught in a trance in the class. She could not find her focus on listening to the discussion. Her teacher was discussing non-stop but she only stared blankly in space.


    There was a strange sensation that blooms on Sofia''s chest that she could not describe. It was a different level of thrill that she had never felt before, even in her past life.


    ''Am I excited to see gang fights?'' she mentally asked trying to evaluate the feeling in her chest. Her class was about to end but her mind was already wandering to their plans of visiting the intersection street downtown.


    If it were her in the past, she would totally be the first to oppose a plan like theirs. It was too risky.


    Since there was no presence of violence in her past life, she could not relate any real experience of encountering fraternity and gangs. She was sheltered and perfectly protected but with the exemption of her tragic death.


    As for the original owner of her body, the young girl never cared about what was happening around her. She only knew violence but only in online games. This young girl was also raised in the mountain area of the district where she lived a simple and peaceful life.


    For most of the class, Sofia appeared to be fully distracted. However, this kind of attitude was not new for their teacher.


    Since their class is nighttime, the teacher gives consideration that the students might be exhausted from their day. It was understandable that most attendance at night class were working students.


    Sofia continued to explore her thoughts. For her, it was too illogical that she would actually go to a dangerous place but, her heart could not wait to witness some gang''s fighting.


    ''Could it be the teenage curiosity that had overwhelmed my interest right now? Maybe I would also be curious in my past life if I there are gangs and fraternity in district 2. That must be the reason for my eagerness,'' Sofia analyzed. She could only find one aspect of her to be the reason why she had felt excitement with the dangers that are involved in her plans.


    She knew the feeling that she felt. But she could not point out the reason why she felt it. At most, with her old soul, it would be rational if she avoids this kind of danger.


    But her instinct is pushing her to go. And she could not ignore the gut feeling that she had within her heart.


    By the time her class ended, Sofia was the first to dash out of their classroom.


    Her classmates who wanted to talk to her about the tournament that she participated in were left confused. Normally this girl is the last to leave their room. But now, she was actually in a hurry!


    "Maybe, Sofia detected that we want to talk to her about the district tournament. So, she went home right away to evade us," one of the classmates said while looking at Sofia''s back vanishing in the shadows of the dim corridor. This classmate was well-adorned with jewelry and one could easily tell that the lady is already employed.


    "I wanna invite her to invest in our business! She got the money to pay the registration now," another female classmate said. Her bag may look small but in fact, the logo that was attached to it indicated that its price is big.


    "Ohhh, you are actually thinking of prospecting Sofia! Nice! I just want to congratulate her, but now that you have given me the idea, maybe I''ll ask her too," one male friend of them also joined their conversation.


    "Hehe," the female classmate with an expensive bag just laughed dryly at her male friend. They had considered themselves as a business partner, so, she did not think too much of it. Instead, the female stared at the girl that had full jewelry on and gave her a wide smile. "Sis, after your salary this month, join with our business, okay? It''s too easy, you''ll just put your money and then it will be doubled after a month. There is no need to do anything at all! And you can get extra money for the referral!"


    "Okay, okay, I will check if my budget has extra this month," the female answered and left hastily. These two had been constantly nagging her to join them. They were even bragging about their income and how easy to earn the money that it was already irritating to listen to their words.  She quickened her pace just in case the two classmates would go after her.


    The business that Sofia''s classmates were talking about was the same investment that Jing Jing had described to Sofia when they were out strolling in the downtown area of the district.


    "I think it''s easy to convince Sofia to join us. My account will level up and my earning will increase by that time," the male classmate continued to imagine once he invited Sofia to join them.  If only there was a way for him to see Sofia''s opinions about the business, his ecstatic facial expression would surely turn sour.


    Such a business had also been present in Sofia''s past life. And she was fully aware of what kind of disaster had it caused to the locals.


    So, when she told Jing Jing to warn her friends about their investments, Sofia was actually expecting that the lady would use her resources and warn all the investors before its too late.

 Chapter 139 - In The Future

    Stephen glanced at his phone, and anxiously check the time every now and then. He was standing near the main gate of their school waiting for Sofia.


    His car was parked a few meters away from him and three bodyguards were watching his movements closely.


    "Young master, please wait inside your car," one of his bodyguards asked him. They had never seen this man wait for someone before. In fact, he was impatient and only followed his own principles.


    "You don''t need to worry about me. I have known this place for years now," Stephen responded with a cold tone.


    If they were not in that location, the place would be remotely empty. Since the tournament was finished, the hype of the district also vanished. The streets were left with the stillness of the night.


    Stephen looked at the sky and stared at the moon for a while. The entire sky was sparkled with shiny stars hinting that it was a good night.


    Out of the corner of his eye, a familiar figure of Sofia finally appeared at the end of the corridor and headed in his direction. Her steps were fast and there was no student behind her yet.


    Seeing that Sofia was sprinting and was only looking at the ground, Stephen hurriedly waved his hand in the air.


    "Sof!" Stephen quickly called.


    Sofia looked up and smiled at him. Her eyes then darted to his car and the bodyguards.


    "Where are the others?" Sofia inquired and her smile widened as she got nearer to him.


    For some reason, Sofia''s expression portrayed that of an innocent teenager. Her sophistication and reserved demeanor was replaced by just a youthful smile. She reflected the epitome of pure bliss.


    Something within Stephen''s heart tugged like a string was being pulled. He took his phone and swiftly snapped a photo of Sofia.


    Sofia''s eyes sparked with a charm that could enchant anyone who could see her face. And the man wanted to immortalize such great expression that he admired.


    "AH!" Sofia squinted her yes when the flash from Stephen''s phone blinded her for a few seconds. "You''re taking a picture of me?" she asked while gently rubbing the eyelids.


    "Yeah, look!" Stephen obliged and showed her the screen of his phone. But the man was cursing inwardly to the camera for flashing and ruining the beautiful moment.


    After the flash of his mobile phone, Sofia''s face had returned to a formal and refined expression.


    As she gazed down at her own face in Stephen''s phone, she was also amazed by her appearance.


    "Ohh, wow!" Sofia exclaimed and slightly giggled at the picture. Her mind had really wandered towards their plan that her expression was also influenced by her excitement.


    "You''re so beautiful, Sof," Stephen subconsciously stated. He could feel the warmth that crept into his heart the moment he realized what he just said.


    On the other hand, Sofia abruptly stared at him and blinked a few times. "Thank you. You''re handsome too!" she said.


    The three bodyguards looked away after hearing their exchange of compliments. Their young master had just complimented a schoolmate!


    "Did young master really called that young girl beautiful?" one of the bodyguards whispered towards his companion. The three of them were blushing and were completely flustered by what they had witnessed.


    "Yes, the young master told that young girl that she is a beauty. This is bad," the other bodyguard slightly shook his head and his face looked grave.


    "Yes. It''s really bad! This is what our boss had ordered for us. That we should not allow the young master to go out with other students. What should we do?"


    The three guards felt conflicted. Last night, their young master was only permitted to return to study at the university because he agreed to have a bodyguard. And his father even reprimanded him to go out with other girls.


    "Let me think of what we should do!" the third guard stated and started drawing some countermeasure plans in his head.


    While these guards were raking their brains of the things that they should do, Stephen was savoring Sofia''s last sentence that he just heard. Even though he had heard these words from others countless times, the impact that he felt just now was totally new to him. The common words had become music to his ears.


    "Yeah... We are a great pair, Sof..." Stephen murmured but his voice was too low that only he had heard what he just said.


    "Pass that photo in chat. I''ll make it as my profile," Sofia conveniently told him. She also admired how youthful her expression look. It should be the appropriate character that she should have and not the formal and deep eyes that reflected her knowledge of life.


    "Yes, I''ll send it right now! I''ll also change my profile picture. Take one for me," Stephen asked and handed his phone to Sofia.


    "Ohh, okay! 1, 2, 3, smile!" Sofia stated as she also captured a perfect angle for Stephen. Then she returned the device and secretly glance at the bodyguards.


    "Thanks, Sof! I''ll send your pic to your inbox now," Stephen confirmed and then moved his fingers on the screen of his device to create and deliver the message. After sending the photo, his hand moved towards the setting of his phone and set the image to be the background of his wallpaper.


    Sofia was no longer looking at Stephen''s phone. She took out her own device and was waiting for the chat message to be delivered to her inbox. "Nice!" she chirped after receiving her picture and updated her profile.


    Stephen was also doing the same. The two of them changed their social media profile image with their faces at the same time. They were flooded with comments and likes in just a few seconds after uploading their pictures.


    "Err, I''ll call Claire to meet us here," Sofia cleared her throat and dialed Claire''s number.


    Stephen on the other hand was staring at her arm where the skin had turned into a visible purple-blue color.


    While Sofia was talking with Claire, the figures of other night students finally emerged. Stephen guided Sofia inside his car and successfully avoided the students.


    "Clark and Joey are already in Claire''s apartment. I told them to go to the location and we will meet them there. Let''s go?" Sofia recounted with her face brimming with excitement. She adjusted her seat and then placed the seatbelt on.


    "Why are you so eager to go? You haven''t eaten anything for dinner," Stephen frowned.


    "It''s fine. It''s fine," Sofia repeated and watched as the three bodyguards get inside the other car which was parked behind. "Your bodyguards won''t join us here?" she curiously asked.


    "Yeah, there is no risk in this place. My father is just overreacting," Stephen shrugged.


    "You can never be complacent," Sofia casually said. In her past life, she felt so protected that she never thought that her life would end tragically. She remembered telling her bodyguards the same words as Stephen had said before the day she was assassinated.


    "It''s fine. No one knew my real identity in this place. I am free to do what I want like a normal citizen," Stephen confessed. He did not know why he was telling something crucial to Sofia but at that time, he felt that she would be able to understand what he was saying.


    "Being rich is suffocating huh?" Sofia playfully asked him.


    "I''m not sure. If I''ll say yes, would you stop the business plans that you have in mind? You know, the path of getting rich lies also behind starting a business," Stephen stated in a serious tone.


    "Nah, I''m good! I don''t think I''ll be suffocated. I am not aiming for getting rich. I am aiming for success," Sofia answered with full of confidence.


    Their car started to move towards downtown and Sofia''s last word still lingered in Stephen''s mind. With the days that he had known her, Stephen was certain that he had understood Sofia. He assumed that the lady wanted to earn money and gain high financial wealth.


    But now, he suddenly had doubts. What exactly is the kind of success that Sofia was chasing if not to become rich?


    "So, if I tell you that money is burdened, your business plans will still proceed to launch?" Stephen asked.


    "Yes. Money is only a burden if you don''t spend it properly. When those rich give value to things and money instead of themselves, that is when it felt suffocating. The technique is simply not to become a slave with money. Earning is good and it gives a satisfying feeling but the income that is being earned must be spent and not kept," Sofia spoke meaningfully.


    "How do you plan to do that?" Stephen inquired.


    "You''ll see it when we get there. There is no rush, we have all the time to think of what we would do in the future once we earn an income," Sofia muttered.


    "In the future..." Stephen trailed while specific thoughts of him and Sofia suddenly appeared on his mind... thoughts that involved more than just the two of them being successful business partners.

 Chapter 140 - LuXin Fraternity (1)

    "That''s the intersection. We should park here," Sofia quickly spotted the building that she was planning to convert as their business. There was only one light bulb in front that was functioning. The rest of the building was totally dark.


    "The owner should install many lights. This is why his establishment is being terrorized by the gangsters. If it''s not dark here, there is no way anyone would expose their identity and fight," Sofia added criticizing the single light bulb in the place.


    Stephen remained silent as he scanned the entire place. There were four men in their early twenties that were sitting in the gutter just in front of the closed establishment.


    If these men would cross the road, they would easily see his car. But, for some reason, the four men were looking in one direction. They were string at the other side of the road as if waiting for someone to come.


    "Let''s go nearer," Stephen muttered and moved closer to the area. His car then stopped at the post where the street light was not working. Stephen''s bodyguard trailed and parked parallel to them.


    "Ahh... and the government is not paying attention to maintaining this street light. They should replace this bulb so that this area is not dark," Sofia continued to voice out her criticisms.


    Stephen''s body vibrated while slightly laughing towards Sofia''s reaction. She sounded like someone who was making a thorough evaluation of the management of the officials that were in charge in the downtown area.


    "I can only see one problem why this place will turn a warzone at night. It''s because of this lack of lights," Sofia speculated as her eyes were darted to the other street lights that were not functioning too.


    "Maybe those gangsters purposely destroyed the lightings in this area," Stephen suggested.


    "That''s also possible. Hmmm... It''s 10 pm," Sofia stated and looked around. The street was completely empty. A small yawn escaped from her lips.


    Out of a sudden, another car parked behind the car where Stephen''s bodyguard was staying. But the two did not notice and the bodyguards did not also alert them.


    On the other block, Clark''s car also stopped at an empty street. It was just the three of them and a driver. There were no bodyguards that had accompanied them. However, there were few people who had observed them from afar.


    "I have never explored our district this empty. Sofia and I always play online games at night. This is the first time that I kind of feel that this street is like an abandoned place," Claire started as suddenly felt like they were in a desolate place.


    "This street is called the brawl intersection. It''s because some unfinished business by fraternities and gangs is usually done here. So, people purposely avoided this street," Joey explained.


    "Ohh, I see. Did Stephen said where are they now?" Claire asked while glancing at Clark.


    "Sofia said they are already here. But, they are park on the other block," Stephen mumbled as he saw Sofia''s message informing him of their location.


    Their car swiftly moved and turned to another corner. Then, the speed slowed down as they approached the post of the street light.


    "Is that them? Why are there other cars?" Joey asked while looking at the two other cars parked in parallel.


    Three cars were parked parallel near a light post. It was a few meters away and Sofia did not mention that they had companions.


    In an instant, Clark dialed Sofia''s number and the call connected right away...


    "Sof, there are three cars in the location that you sent me," Clark quickly reported.


    "Three cars," Sofia frowned and then looked at the back. However, she could only see the car behind them with the bodyguards of Stephen.


    "Yes, there are three cars. Which car are you in?" Clark inquire.


    "The one in the very front, beside the street light with a broken lightbulb," Sofia answered.


    "Ohh, then, these other two cars?" Clark asked feeling a little worried that the two cars were members of the gangsters in the area.


    "Stephen brought a bodyguard. They are in the car next to us. For the last car, I don''t know. Wait..." Sofia said and then asked Stephen, "How many bodyguards did you exactly bring? There are two other cars in our back, according to Clark."


    "Only the one in the car. Don''t mine the other car, they are just possibly here to see the gang fights," Stephen stated with no hint of nervousness in his voice.


    Sofia nodded her head and returned her attention to her call. "Clark, don''t mind the third car. Just be alert."


    "Okay, we will park behind this unknown car," Clark said and ended their conversation.


    Claire and Joey were able to hear Sofia on the phone, hence, Clark did not need to relay her message to them.


    They remained vigilant but they could not see anything from their position.


    "AHH, since this place is empty, let''s just double park," Clark initiated.


    The driver did not say a word and moved the vehicle next to Stephen''s car.


    Finally, they saw the men sitting in the gutter. And since the area where they parked was dark, nobody had paid much attention to them.


    "This is not the gangsters. Those men are frat boys. Look at their shirts," Joey told the group. The men had a red and strange symbol on their upper garments that hinted to the onlookers that it was their uniform.


    "Ohh, so, what is it exactly? Is it a fight between fraternity and gangs?" Clark inquired and waved at the window where Sofia was waving at them.


    "I am not sure. But, that might be the case," Joey stated and also waved at Sofia. But they did not exchange any conversation. Just their gesture was enough to understand the message they wanted to convey.


    After several minutes of waiting, another group of men wearing black hoodies was marking from the dark alley.


    "These should be the rival fraternity," Joey continued to speculate after seeing that the newcomers were wearing different uniforms.


    "Those people in black jackets were somewhat familiar. I think that they are wearing a uniform from the club of our school. That tech club?" Clark suddenly mentioned after realizing that there was a sense of familiarity with the outfits of the other group.


    "Ohhh, now that you mentioned it, these were really the tech club, Clark.! What are they doing here? Are they involved with the troubles in this area?" Claire inquired. She quickly recognized the club and that they specialized the technology courses.


    "Let''s wait and see," Joey stated and they became silent.


    But, out of nowhere, the car door of Stephen''s car opened and Sofia jumped out from it. Stephen followed her afterward.


    "Hey! Why are you dragging the school reputation for creating troubles?" Sofia called the group that was wearing the hoodies.


    She did not recognize the first men who were sitting in the gutter in front of the building. But, the second group was too familiar for her. And to think that they had the guts of using a uniform from their school, Sofia could not helo but reprimand them.


    "Ohh, hey! Arent you the squad leader of the Chronos squad? Are you betting too?" one of the men asked Sofia.


    "Oh, that''s not right! Why would she join the gamble when she is the other end of the bet?" another one from the group expressed with a confused tone.


    "What bet?" Stephen asked while closing his distance to Sofia.


    "Ohh, the bet of her and Krista19. The one in the online poll. We are here to make our bets with those people," the man pointed in the direction of another group.


    "Ohh, what about the gangsters here?" Sofia inquired.


    "There are no gangsters---" the man stated but he was cut off by the sound of a glass bottle shattering.


    "Oh my gosh, LuXin fraternity is here. What bad luck is this! Let''s get out of here!" someone announced and the group quickly scrammed. Their movements were synchronized and they quickly sprinted back to the dark alley.


    The other group that was wearing the same uniformed shirt stood arrogantly.


    "LuXin, you said that you won''t come here tonight. We are supposed to gamble and make money with the tech students!" one of the men in shirt scowled.


    "I changed my mind. After all, this place is my territory," the man responded. He was wearing casual shorts and a polo shirt. If it was from a different place, Sofia would never see the man as a frat boy. His outfit looked so out of character than what Sofia had expected.


    "What do we have here?" LuXin''s attention shifted to Stephen and Sofia who was also looking at them.


    But, after recognizing their faces, the guy broke into a wide grin. "You are that champion in the tournament! Hahaha"


    LuXin laughed loudly and the dangerous expression around him vanished without a trace. At this point, he just looked like a regular friend recognizing someone he knew and respected.


    "I think he is a fan of our squad? He does not look like he will harm us," Sofia looked at Stephen with a bewildered expression.

 Chapter 141 - LuXin Fraternity (2)

    "You are LuXin?" Sofia casually asked the man who was still grinning at her.


    "Yes! Wow! My friends were actually watching the tournament in the gym. Your squad was too cool! Can we take a picture?" LuXin expressed without any reserve.


    "Ohh thank you! We gave our best during the tournament! Anyway, your group is the fraternity that is creating problems in this street?" Sofia probed further. Her tone was direct to the point making the group felt a slight discomfort.


    Now that she had a better view of the LuXin Fraternity, she could tell that they were far from scary looking. The men were all wearing casual outfits. At most, they just looked like ordinary locals who happened to pass by in the area.


    If the tech club members did not have the official logo of their school, she would be more scared to approach them than the LuXin''s group.


    "Ohh, its us... yes. I wonder why the two of you have come in this street?" LuXin inquired.


    "It is because I have a plan in that building," Sofia paused. She then raised her hand and pointed her index finger to the establishment.


    "What about that building?" LuXin asked as he followed the direction that Sofia was pointing.


    "The owner of that building is selling the property. I want to buy it. However, I have heard about the fraternity fights and gangsters in this street, so I came to investigate," Sofia answered.


    Upon hearing her response, LuXin''s face looked conflicted... and embarrassed? She was not certain but there a slight expression of shyness flashed in LuXin''s face. However, it was just too quick and vanished right away.


    LuXin scratched the back of his neck and avoid eye contact with Sofia. He was guilty but Sofia sensed that the man was hiding something. It could be more than just creating trouble.


    Then, understanding finally came upon Sofia''s mind as all members of the fraternity turned quiet.


    If this man was just acting all arrogant, he would not even spare any minute of his time just to speak with Sofia. Since he was communicating with them, this meant that the group had their own agenda behind their unruly actions.


    "Ohh... I think I understand. Do you have a business too?" Sofia asked.


    She understood the probability of competition.


    There is a high possibility that these men lead by LuXin were causing trouble for the owner of the building so that they would be able to reduce a competitor.


    It was an underhanded scheme that was not new to Sofia. Creating trouble to the competitors were very common in the corporate world. It could exist in different form of trouble. But, LuXin''s way was also effective. The group utilized fear towards the business owner and its customers.


    "I don''t have a business. But," LuXin was reluctant to speak. He gazed at his members and they only nodded their heads.


    "But what?" Sofia asked when she sensed that the man was unwilling to finish his sentence.


    "Uhhm... I have no business but we are paid by the owner of that green building over there to create trouble for the business in this street," LuXin answered.


    Sofia was partially right. This group was deliberately creating trouble for the business in the area to remove the potential competitors of other business owners.


    She just did not expect that the group were hired. She thought that these men were acting for the benefit of their business. It turned out, they were paid!


    "Well, that''s too bad. Because my squad will purchase that building and start our business here. We plan to convert that building into a hostel. The first floor is the dining area. The second floor is the room accommodations. The third is our office." Sofia stated without blinking her eyes.


    LuXin was too surprised after listening to her. His eyes went wide and his jaw almost dropped to the ground.


    "Y-your squad is doing business here?" he clarified in disbelief. These Chronos squad members were even younger than him or his members. Yet, their plans were beyond their age!


    "Yes, we will use the money that we had won during the championship to run the business. So, we won''t allow your group to cause us a bankruptcy," Sofia''s tone became deadly serious.


    "Uhm, we are already paid to drive out the businesses in this area. Hehehe...  Is it possible that you''ll just find a different location for your business?"  LuXin awkwardly bargained.


    "No, it''s not possible. This place is already a good location. But, I''ll tell you what''s possible," Sofia said and clasped her hands. She then glanced at the first group that they saw upon their arrival earlier.


    "What is?" LuXin asked curiously.


    "The thing that you are doing right now is harassment. Perhaps, malicious harassment resulted in damage to private and public properties. I''m not a lawyer but I know that these actions are against the law and those responsible are punishable," Sofia relayed. "You, stop this madness and I will hire all of you for my business plans. We have not interviewed personnel in our business, so, this is a good opportunity for all of you to have a regular income!"


    Sofia''s proposal was too sudden that even Stephen was stiffened on the spot. How could she hire these thugs without checking their backgrounds? It was a recruitment that he had never witnessed before.


    "Y-you are offering regular work for us?" LuXin inquired.


    "Yes. Tell me, how much was your group was paid to create trouble here?" Sofia asked him.


    "Just ten thousand. We have nothing better to do, so we took the offer of that man who owned the green building," LuXin replied.


    "I see. I have nothing to do with your previous and dirty arrangement but I don''t want to employ people with no loyalty. So, if you can return that money and tell whoever paid you that you''ll be working for me, then I''ll hire your group right away. You can reach me in chat. I''ll give you up until tomorrow to think about this good opportunity," Sofia offered.


    "What if we don''t want to accept your offer?" one of the members asked.


    Sofia glared sharply at him and an evil smile appeared on her face. "It''s not up to you to decide. It''s for your leader to give me a decision tomorrow," she said before walking away from them.


    Her words were too simple for the other people who overheard it but these words were actually meant to test LuXin''s ability to lead his group. Since they claimed as a fraternity, their brotherhood should have a solid bond.  If one of the members won''t follow LuXin''s decision, it only meant that his leadership skill was questionable.


    Stephen followed Sofia from behind. He made sure that she was safely walking in front of him instead of just walking side by side.


    As he gazed at Sofia''s back, he could not help but wonder how Sofia''s tone could drive a great authority.


    Those men were older than them by several years, yet, no one laughed at Sofia when she mentioned business plans to them.


    No one mocked her when she declared that she would employ those frat members as long as they were willing to show loyalty to them.


    For some reason, they were all listening to her proposal as if Sofia''s tone of voice was demanding those listeners to pay attention and show respect to her.


    "That was amazing, Sof! If it would be me who was talking to them, they had probably treated me like a clown and laugh at my ideas instead," Stephen stated with full of sincerity.

 Chapter 142 - New Skin: Black & Gold

    "Ahhh... This night was not what I imagined it to be," Sofia said after sitting back in Stephen''s car.


    "No, it''s not a chaotic night of fight. Hehe, but, who is the person inside this other car?" Stephen softly asked and stared at the unknown car.


    However, before they could approach it, the car already roared away. Sofia stared at the figure of the car and sighed. She then looked at the moon hung brightly above.


    After a few seconds, her phone suddenly vibrated by the urgent call from Claire.


    "Sof, you guys, what happened? I thought we will stay in the car! Why did you go out and approach those hooligans!" Claire''s voice was in frantic after Sofia answered her call.


    "Well, I went out to reprimand those students for putting bad reputation for our school. It turned out they are here to gamble. Speaking of a gamble, I''ll check that streamer who had been provoking me. Let''s meet tomorrow afternoon, Claire. Tell Joey and Clark too. I''ll discuss the acquisition of the building for our business," Sofia summarized before she ended their conversation.


    Stephen started the car and drive back to the main highway. Two cars slowly followed his lead. Then, Clark''s car changed a lane and went in the other direction.


    "I''ll grab a take out and then let''s call it a night," Stephen suggested. He then made a left turn and stop at a drive-thru eatery. The car of his bodyguards where nowhere to be seen.


    "I''ll get donuts, a box with assorted flavors," Sofia requested while looking at the tiny menu plastered below the window.


    "A box of donuts with assorted flavor, two regular cups of espresso," Stephen stated their order and handed a silver card to the cashier. Sofia observed him quietly.


    "You''re not going to ask me?" Stephen suddenly asked while the staff was preparing for their orders.


    Sofia did not need to ask what Stephen was asking about. It was clear in her head that their conversation would be the identity of Stephen.


    But then, she had her own secrets to keep for the rest of her existence. So, there was not much for her to confront.


    "I get it, Steph. No need to worry," Sofia answered. She meant to say that she completely understood Stephen from any perspective he was in. The rich never revealed their identity unless they are in the upper-class society. But even then, they conceal most of their wealth to the public eye.


    "Thanks!" Stephen mumbled with a small yet genuine smile on his lips. "Ehh... Are we going to employ those guys?" he smoothly changed their topic.


    "It''s not a clever move to use other people to undermine business. Hmmph! What an ugly way to compete," Sofia snickered. "But, those kids proved to have a tough reputation in this district. They will be an advantage to us," Sofia mumbled. She raised her hand and subconsciously combed her hair.


    ''Kids?'' Stephen went silent for a while and took their orders from the cashier. He mentally wondered why Sofia was calling those men as kids. Those frat boys were older than them!


    "Careful," he softly said while passing the cups of espresso to Sofia.


    "Thanks!" Sofia casually held the cup and smelled the aroma of coffee directly hitting her nose.


    Stephen gazed at her as she closed her eyes and inhaled all the scent of coffee that lingered around them.


    "It''s late but we are drinking coffee," he chuckled while maneuvering the steering wheel.


    "It''s a bad routine but tonight, there are too many things to settle. Why are you drinking coffee?" Sofia asked. She had too many things to finished but Stephen does not seem to have anything to do.


    "Haha, I''ll hang out in your place. Are you going to battle the streamer?" Stephen curiously asked. He had seen the chaos of the netizen online earlier and he was also curious how Sofia would handle it.


    "For practice, yeah. I only know how to use the tank role. I''ve been playing that character ever since I registered in the game. With the upcoming ban mode, I had to learn another role," Sofia stated.


    "I''ve learned and played both gunner and archer type marksmen. I could adjust if one of the characters would be ban," Stephen muttered. "But, if you decide to change role, our rotation and strategy would be changed too."


    "I''ll read and familiarize the skills of other characters first. It''s not easy to change role but the ban feature will definitely be fun to play!" she eagerly said.


    After half an hour, they parked and exited the car. Stephen grabbed a bag on the trunk before he pressed the lock button from the key.


    "You''re bringing a bag? Are you staying for the night?" Sofia was surprised to see him with a large gym bag. There was no hint of malice or anything in her tone. Only pure curiosity after seeing the bag dangling in Stephen''s side.


    "Maybe? I brought all the papers that I needed to answer. These are the activities that I missed when I was suspended," Stephen casually answered. He then unzipped his bag and showed her the stacks of paper stuffed on it.


    "Ohh," Sofia nodded while holding her box of donuts. Their coffee was in Stephen''s other hand.


    The two walked past the entrance door. A vigilant guard of the establishment nodded at them as a form of casual greeting before they went continued walking.


    The apartment was already silent. Apart from their soft footsteps, only the tick-tack sound of the medium-sized wall clock can be heard in the entire building.


    Sofia took a quick glance at Claire''s unit first and saw that the lights of her room were still on. She made a stop and knock on Claire''s door.


    "Yes?-- Oh, Sof! I''m about to sleep!" Claire stated. Sofia noticed that she was already in her pajama.


    Claire''s eyes looked up and gazed at Stephen. "You two are hanging together this late?" she questioned.


    "We made a stop to a drive-thru and bought some donuts. Come and take some. Stephen will finish some papers he had missed in school," Sofia explained. Her fingers swiftly peeled open the box of donuts and it revealed various colorful circles inside.


    "Oh, I see! I''ll take this green and pink!" Claire stated and took the two donuts right away. "Thank you!"


    "You''re welcome! Good night!" Sofia said and finally walked towards her unit.


    "The two of you are very close?" Stephen asked.


    "Claire is the only friend that I have become really close. It''s maybe because we both play online games. And she is also a good gamer," Sofia answered.


    She pushed open the door of her unit and switched on the lights. The two entered silently.


    Sofia went to her dining table and placed the box of donuts on it. Stephen followed and put their coffee beside the box.


    "Just use that table, I only have this or the dining one," Sofia said while gesturing to a mini table on her couch. She then grabbed a phone charger on her desk and plugged it into the outlet.


    "Do you want to charge your phone?" she suddenly asked when Stephen started to arrange the papers and placed them on the mini table.


    "I''ll charge later, Sof. My battery is still full," Stephen replied.


    "Okay, I''ll just wash my face first," Sofia said and then dragged her chair. She made sure that her phone was charging before letting the device sit in her chair.


    Several minutes passed and Sofia returned to her dining table, removing all the wrappers from their take-out order. Stephen has already engrossed his attention to the papers on the mini table and started writing on them.


    He sat on a carpeted floor and leaned his back on the sofa. Sofia placed the cup of coffee on his left side and a small plate with a chocolate donut.


    She took one last glance at Stephen before she went back to her phone and looked at the battery level. When the notification hinted that her battery is full, she unplugged the charger and joined Stephen.


    She also sat on the carpet and started her own multitasking. Her left hand was holding her phone and was opening the game. The right hand was holding a donut, as she chewed it slowly.


    "Ohh! Brent sent me skin!" Sofia exclaimed causing Stephen to look at her phone too.


    "Cool!" Stephen stated as he remembered the face of Brent. "Is he interested in you?" he suddenly asked.


    "Nahh, this is normal. We sometimes exchange in-game equipment in the past. So, there is no other meaning other than him being generous," Sofia stated. Her fingers moved towards the message that was attached to the skin gift.


    ''Congratulations! Here is my gift to your squad, Sofia! See you in the regionals!''


    "How generous! He is sending all of us a skin as a form of congratulations! Check your account later after you''re done with the papers, Steph. You have yours too!" Sofia said.


    The skin was called black and gold. Once it''s activated and used, the clothing of the character will change into black and its weapon will become color gold.


    Sofia stared at her tank character when she took a peek at the preview. Not only does the new skin gives off a profound level of mystery to the character, but it also portrayed a sense of dangerous aura while a faint black smoke continued to circle around the body of the character.


    "This black & gold skin is so cool!" Sofia said as her eyes were still staring at the magnificent tank character in her phone.

 Chapter 143 - Custom Battle Room 777 (1)

    Sofia closed the preview window of the new skin she received. Her expression reflected a very good mood.


    "The skin I got is for my archer," Stephen stated while looking at the bow and arrows were glinting of golden aura for his character. "I think there would be an effect if we cast the skills of our character using this skin."


    "Possibly... It''s nice! Well, finished your papers," Sofia said and ate the entire donut in her hand. Stephen started to drink his coffee and then obediently kept his phone away.


    The two settled in comfortable silence. Sofia continued to explore the game with both of her hands holding her mobile phone.


    The screen prompted another image as she entered the main lobby of the game and switched the category of various modes for the PVP maps. Her finger stopped moving for a while when she reached the Custom PVP Mode.


    In a swift movement, her index finger clicked the + (plus) button on the mobile screen to create a battle room.


    Another screen displayed a category of two text boxes on the opposite side with a ''vs'' in the middle. Sofia typed 1 on the left side and then another 1 on the right side.


    She then proceeded to enter the number of spectators and the password.


    System Alert! : New Custom Battle Room Created


    Room ID: 777


    Players: 1 vs 1


    Number of Spectators: 20


    Type spectators condition to enter: Like our official page!


    Password: 1111


    Sofia stared at the information on her screen before she switched towards her social media account. She then typed the details and casually published a post.


    "I''ve learned so many things from the senior streamers. There are respectable contents that were essential to fellow gamers. But this lady is creating a bad reputation for the good streamers. If I don''t teach her a lesson, my ancestors would beat me in the afterlife," Sofia muttered softly after posting a message in public.


    At 11 pm, the majority of the netizens were active and still busy commenting about the trending topics on social media.


    Some had planned to go and sleep and were prepared to shut off their devices. However, a sudden post of Sofia awakened every sleepy gamer soul that night by publishing a post that was lazily typed.


    It was a response to the provocation of Krista19.


    CEO UNRIVALED posted a few seconds ago: PVP 1v1 mode room ID 777. PW 1111


    There were no other words on the post. She did not tag or mention any person on it either.


    But, with the trending poll an ongoing issue in their gaming community, it was already understood that her post was meant for the person that was involved with her.


    "Oh gosh! A custom battle room from the squad leader of the Chronos squad! Let''s enter!"


    "Tell the others to come. Maybe there are still slots to enter the room! This is fun!"


    To a normal netizen that was surfing their social media feeds, this post was too difficult to understand. It''s too vague.


    However, all the gamers who had seen this post were extremely excited by it. They quickly opened the game and logged in to their account. Then, they chatted with their friends to share the information.


    Meanwhile, those who were about to lay in bed abruptly halted after seeing the post and then refocused on their phone.


    Instead of sleeping, they proceed to log in to the game just so they could witness the battle. To them, there was no concept of sleep time if the game was involved.


    "Custom battle room is an expensive card to activate. I hope I can enter this room!" one of netizens said while waiting for his account to log in.


    Sofia''s post was a clear gaming battle challenge. This time, it was not a provocation but a real challenge coming from the person that was targeted by the streamer.


    PVP was a customized player vs player mode that allowed the gamers to select the number of opponents that they want to battle. But the prize of using the mode requires the owner to spend a diamond to purchase a card.


    For Sofia, it was nothing as her in-game inventory was full of cards and other items. She selected 1v1 which meant it would be a one on one gameplay. The game would transport the players to the same 5 v 5 map but only the two players would be able to play inside.


    The room ID and password was a feature that not all players could use. It was a different card barrier that can only be activated if the player had a card on their inventory. This card would limit the audience of their game to enter to room and be the spectator.


    Sofia did not hesitate to activate the card to disable some features of the game that were available on the normal map.


    The "Room 777 & PW 1111" reposts flooded the gaming forum too.


    By the time Sofia waited inside the room, all players were already aware of the issue about the streamer provoking the squad leader champion.


    The capacity of the room was only for 20 spectators and two players. And before the spectators could enter the room, one must meet the condition set by the owner first.


    "Hahaha, the condition in this room 777  is to like their official page of Chronos squad. That''s all?!"


    "Ohhh, I thought that they would require diamonds and crystals to enter the room. It was actually a simple requirement!"


    The gamers were laughing in joy as they thought such condition was too easy for a custom battle room. They would have understood if the owner of the room would request an item that can be monetized.


    "As expected of the leader from the champion squad. She did not even ask for anything other than the likes for their official page."


    "Ahh, how admirable! This squad leader is not greedy for any items!"


    Many random gamers who were not really from the official pro teams were able to enter room 777 minutes after Sofia published her post. They quickly expressed their admiration for the condition that she set to enter the room.


    Those who were late had only seen a prompt that the room was full. They could only express their disappointment of not being able to spectate the match.


    "This is a custom battle room. How sad, we can''t witness the battle on live."


    "Let''s ask someone who managed to enter room 777 to record their perspective so that we can watch later!"


    This custom battle room had another special setting that Sofia liked.  Because of the card barrier that she activated, it would prevent any live streaming to occur during the match.


    This meant that whoever was using the account of Krista19, this user would not be able to take advantage of their battle. Her streaming would be disabled once she entered room 777.


    Instead, the game will provide an option called a perspective capture for the audience inside the room if they want to record their perspectives.


    ~


    Meanwhile, the user of the account Krista19 looked gloomy after seeing the challenge from Sofia. She had spent the whole day just to make sure that this teenager would give her attention.


    At first, she was happy to finally see a response from Sofia. She initially thought that as long as Sofia will reply to any of her posts, it would mean that there would be something for her to put in her content.


    But after she realized the battlefield where the challenge would be settled, her entire face turned sour.


    "Ah, this kid is actually clever to pick this mode and use a custom battle room. I won''t be able to stream while playing against her."


    It was clear that Sofia''s move would prevent the streamer to put their battle as the content of her stream. Instead, those spectators who could record their perspective during the battle would be the ones who had the ability to share the result of their match!


    The streamer''s one thing that she had aimed for was taken away by Sofia just by spending the custom card. She lost her potential million views!


    Krista19 expressed a long sigh and felt powerless for the first time.


    She started the provocation, if she won''t agree to the conditions that Sofia placed, it would be bad for her image.


    She was left with no choice but to enter the custom battle room 777!


    CEO UNRIVALED was already inside the room when the spectators started to enter.


    These audiences quickly sent a public chat in their room.


    JeSupportMain: AHH!!! I got in! Yes!!!


    Ciisfire: Guys, make sure you use the capture perspective.


    LoSAssassin: Thank you for the easy condition, C`U! Good luck!


    Ardi23: CU hii!!! I can''t believe I''m inside the battle room! This is my first time!


    Sofia observed the endless chats in the room. The words flew like water released from a dam. While the spectators were busy chatting, her opponents had not yet arrived.


    "Could it be that she already fell asleep? Impossible, this is the peak hour to have so many views for the players had no more works to do. Streamers rarely sleep at this time," Sofia muttered while her eyes were focused on the empty side of Player 2.


    After a few more minutes, a figure finally emerged in the side of Player 2.


    In an instant, the spectators stopped chatting and focused their attention on the battlefield.


    The timer of the game showed a 20 seconds countdown for the players to prepare and choose their role and character for the match.


    Sofia changed the default role in her account and picked an odd character. It was a summoner that could be used as a mage and a support role.

 Chapter 144 - Custom Battle Room 777 (2)

    "Ohhh... Sum-summoner?"


    The spectators shared the same reaction upon seeing the character that Sofia selected. They somehow felt weird by this choice and end up being curious.


    This character was deemed useless by the first players and pro gamers of the game. According to them, the skill of the summoner was not average but it was boring. Thus, no one wanted to play in this character.


    Somehow, the spectators could not related to this character.


    Since most of the pro players had given bad comments about this character for lack of enjoyment when playing, they never bothered to learn and use this character too.


    They had completely no idea of the dynamics of playing the summoner.


    But, they were still eager to see the potential of it given that Sofia was playing it.


    On the other side, the player Krista19 was also bewildered by this choice. She was sitting on her gaming chair while both her elbows were propped to both sides of the armchair.


    This lady is wearing a revealing outfit that accentuated her cleavage. However, because the custom battle room 777 disabled her camera, she was not mindful of her actions at all.


    Krista19''s sitting position was so unladylike in her chair as she was confident that no one would be able to watch her as long as she would be inside the battle room.


    "Why is this CEO UNRIVALED picking a mage - support role? I thought she will be playing a tank. And of all characters, she actually chose this weird summoner?!" A deep scowl appeared on her face as she expected her opponent to use a tank role.


    The timer countdown continued to move while she stared at her mobile screen. Then, she went to the chat and started to compose her message.


    Krista19: Yo! So you won''t be using a tank? Hehehe... Summoner... really?


    She could not help but type her confusion in the chat upon seeing Sofia''s pick.


    CEO UNRIVALED: Summoner, yes.


    Sofia''s response was brief and lack of explanation. Her opponent wanted to know why she was picking this character but now, their chat conversation turned into a dead end.


    "Then, I''ll use the same role and play this summoner too!" Krista19 muttered feeling extremely optimistic about the role.


    Although she could pick whatever character she wanted to use in their play, it was only right for a one on one fight to use the same character so that she could prove to their spectators that her skills were far better than Sofia''s.


    Her thumb swiftly clicked the image of the summoner for her pick and locked the character.


    As soon as the two players picked their characters, the screen of their mobile phone quickly displayed a progress bar. A loud gong sounded to indicate that their battle would commence.


    Both of their screens quickly showed 77%, the percentage loading before their characters would be completely transported on the battlefield.


    Sofia looked pleased after knowing that her opponent had adjusted her role and character too.


    It was her first time using this character in the game. But she had already read the details of the character as well as familiarize its item build.


    Such an experience would contribute to her learning.


    To say, Sofia did not set up their battle for a competition. Rather, she was using her opponent to her advantage. More like she aimed for a contribution from Krista19.


    The summoner could focus from either mage or support. When the character reached level 3, the player could choose which role they would focus on.


    For a mage role focus, the game would activate four skills apart from its passive attacks. However, if the player would choose the support role, the game would activate 5 skills apart from passive.


    These two split roles would create confusion for each skill set effects were totally different.


    If the player focused on the mage role, the summoner character would transform into an earth mage appearance.


    Its first skill would increase its mobility for 5 seconds with 15 seconds cool down.


    The second skill would allow the earth mage to drop a single seed on the ground and make this seed a portal. But this skill would decay and won''t be available if not used in the span of 6 seconds. The cool down of this skill is 20 seconds.


    For instance, if the player casts the second skill and runs far from the area of the seed, within six seconds, the player can click the second skill again so that the character would go back to the location of where the seed was dropped.


    But if the player dropped the seed and failed to press the second skill again within six seconds span, the seed would vanish from the ground and the cool down of the skill would start to count.


    The third skill is a vine-like root that would stun the enemy once hit by the skill. It was a similar effect that all mages had. The stun effect to the enemy is only 2 seconds while the cool down of the skill is 15 seconds.


    For its ultimate, the character could summon a giant seed bomb. It was an AoE attack. Once the giant seed reached the ground, it would automatically explode creating tremendous magic damage. The cool down of the skill is 150 seconds.


    These skills were pretty decent and overpowered yet, gamers still called the summoner character boring to be played. Why? It''s because the cool down of this character is fixed. Even if the player would buy an item for cool down reduction, this character is immune from it. It would be useless.


    Mages usually had a long cool down in the game. It was expected especially that their skills were insanely strong once the items of the game were combined.


    But, most of the players would bargain their boost of damage for a cool down reduction in order for them to use the skill proactively. Taking control of the battlefield was one thing that gamers want in their gameplay.


    Unfortunately, with the special condition that was set in the summoner character, players found it hard to take control of their overall gameplay on the battlefield as they had to wait for a long cool down of the skills first before they could attack.


    No one wanted to wait. To play this character, a gamer must exert too much patient, and it''s one thing that hinders them to enjoy their play. Especially during the clash, if the skill is not available to cast, the character would totally be useless.


    After the two players were transported to the battlefield, the spectators started to observe the movements of both sides.


    Sofia went to the middle lane, while Krista19 went to the top lane. Both sides won''t be able to roam in the jungle for their character was not too strong enough to kill the monsters yet.


    Since both players were still on level one, they could only clear their creeps to level up. The routine was too basic that some spectators could only yawn from their sits.


    Sofia had already planned to focus on the mage role after she reached level three. As for Krista19, she was constantly checking the skills panel on her side.


    Her confidence was somewhat faltered when she reached level 3 and the game prompted her to choose which role to focus on.


    "What the f*ck is this?!" Krista19 frowned while reading the prompt message that had appeared on her screen. She had not anticipated that there would be a role focus for the character.


    Summoner System Level 3 Notice: Pick a role to focus on.


    Role: Mage || Support.


    Warning: Skill set of your character will be activated relative to the chosen role.


    Those spectators who had never seen this type of feature were also baffled. The mindset that they had in this character was only limited to the comments from other gamers that they had heard before. Hence, they had no idea that it would also require the player to focus on one role after level 3.


    "What a weird character! So this is called heavenly summon role. In the game, it says that after the player reached level 3, it can summon the character to become an earth mage or earth healer hermit. Wow!" one of the spectators went to search the feature and was impressed by what he discovered. Such a feature was unique from all the characters of the game!


    This spectator was actually the one of the members of the group of tech students that Sofia had met on the intersection road.


    They followed Sofia on their social media accounts. The moment they saw Sofia''s post about the custom battle room, they quickly entered the room. But, only two members of the group were able to enter the battle room before the capacity became full.


    "Oh, CEO UNRIVALED is choosing the mage role, earth mage. Haha, her appearance transformed like a head of a tree, with the leaves as hair. The streamer Krista19 is not moving. But she is already in level 3 too," the other tech member stated.


    Because of the sudden pause that Krista19 made, Sofia had a good chance to clear the creeps on the bottom lane.


    She did not waste her time and activated her mobility skills and sprinted towards the bottom lane. Yet, in the middle of the jungle, just a few meters away from the creeps of the bottom lane, she dropped a seed from her second skill.


    The seed stumbled near the jungle monster but did not create any ruckus.


    Sofia''s earth mage did not stop. She cast her third skill and attack the creeps. Just in time that the five-second time span would display on her second skill, she clicked this skill again.


    In an instant, her character appeared to the location of the seed, leaving the bottom lane in a blink of an eye.


    "W-what?!!!"


    "CEO UNRIVALED changed place?! HAA!!!"


    "AWESOME! That skill is to unexpected!"


    All the spectators eyes were widened in shock. At that point, they had not realized the special condition of the character''s skill cool down yet.


    Hence, they were all amazed by the unforeseen teleportation of Sofia''s character from one area to another.

 Chapter 145 - Custom Battle Room 777 (3)

    Every spectator could not hide their shock from this unprecedented gameplay that Sofia had shown them. Who would have thought that it would be an astounding combination of skills? If they had known that this is how the summoner''s skill set was, they had surely not ignored this character!


    Just then, CEO UNRIVALED had already used her first, second, and third skills. She was attacking the NPC monster using her passive attack.


    "The summoner character is not bad! In this kind of skill, it would be pretty op in the late game! The first skill is buffed of movement, then, second is another way of moving to a different location! It would be hard to catch or kill the summoner!"


    "Speed, teleport, stun, and... Wow! The ultimate is an AoE giant seed bomb! What a broken combination of skills! It''s like from a two different characters merged in one!"


    "So, the earth mage is actually this awesome! I should try to practice using it next time!"


    No matter which angle they consider, their blood boiled with eagerness trying to imagine their own gameplays.


    All spectators were full of enthusiasm as they observed CEO UNRIVALED rotating from the middle lane towards the bottom lane. They started to wonder how great the summoner would be if they play it in their match too.


    After few seconds of surprise and amusement from what they had witnessed, they switched their focus to Krista19.


    On the top lane, Krista19 finally moved her character and also chose mage as a role to focus on.


    "Cool!" she exclaimed after seeing the transformation of her character''s appearance and become the earth mage.


    This was also her first time playing the character. Somehow, she felt uneasy with the recent discovery about role focus.


    "Okay, so now, I become a mage," Krista19 mumbled and started reading the description of the available skills for her character.


    The more she read the skills, she felt a little confused. Whenever she stream, most of her viewers would usually suggest to her how to play a character that is new to her.


    At that point, she slightly panicked and felt scared. Upon reading the skill details, she could not imagine a combo on her head.


    "Stun, then.... ultimate, then the first skill to escape. But what is this second skill for? Throw a seed for what?" she started creating a combo attack on her mind while mumbling loudly the plans that she had thought.  Her eyes darted from every button of the skills with full of concentration.


    "Why do I felt a little bit frightened? I''m more adept at playing, what is there to be scared of? CEO UNRIVALED only play a tank role in the past. I have seen her history. All matches were played on the same role and character. So, this means she does not know about this earth mage too!" she muttered to herself, trying to console the uneasiness she felt.


    Krista19 fully assumed that she and Sofia would have a fair share of zero experience in this character. Therefore, she could easily find a way to trample Sofia. Defeating an inexperienced enemy would be too easy.


    But, all her optimistic assumptions were shattered after the notification sound of the game informing her that the initial defense tower of her territory in the bottom lane was under attack.


    CEO UNRIVALED was able to clear the wave of creeps in the middle lane and bottom lane while Krista19 was stuck in the top lane, planning her attack strategy, The mini seconds of her pause was still crucial as her opponent was already grinding to level up.


    She promptly checked the character stats. And to her surprise, she was left by a large margin of gap!


    CEO UNRIVALED had already reached level 6, while her character was only level 4!


    On top of it, her opponent had gotten two items in the inventory panel. Meanwhile, she only had one item and some fragments to form the second build.


    "H-how could it be? What did she do to gather this much exp level and gold earnings quickly? Is this a cheat? After all, she was the one who set up the battle room!" Krista19 angrily questioned while glaring at her phone. She could not believe that their gap was getting larger by a margin, she directly accused her enemy of using a cheat.


    She refused to admit that she was too complacent and did not expect the abnormal growth level of her enemy. If she was not lagging her movement and chose the role to focus swiftly, she would have noticed the movement of Sofia.


    Now, the real panic started to tug on her chest, trying to shake her confidence and optimism in winning.


    "I must grind in the jungle!" Krista19 quickly reflected on her next move. Farming was her only way to catch up and break the gap of their character.


    After she killed the last creeps of Sofia''s allies in the top lane, her character moved directly to her jungle territory and started attacking the NPC monsters.


    Back on the middle lane, CEO UNRIVALED started to march and joined her creeps in attacking the initial tower defense of the enemy.  Now, her creeps had gained the advantage of advancing forward from both the middle lane and bottom lane.


    However, her top lane was also at a disadvantage. Luckily for her, Krista19 did not pursue and push at the top lane. Instead, Sofia caught her movement on the map heading to the jungle area.


    This decision of her opponent gave Sofia the window to defend her top lane too.


    Minutes passed and the timer of their match moved to six minutes. However, there was no direct confrontation between the two players yet. Their rotation had started to bore their spectators too.


    "They are not fighting? It''s already more than six minutes," one of the spectators complained impatiently.


    A match with fewer fights was really not that entertaining to watch. In cases of custom battle or other game modes, mostly, after the characters obtained their ultimate skills, they would be ready to provoke and contest their opponents.


    The showdown of skills with no retreat until only one would survive was what the spectators were waiting for.


    But each side was not even harassing the enemy. They were all defensive and stay on their jungle to farm.


    "Could it be that they are waiting to possess a full build?" another spectator started to realize what the two players were doing. Since both parties did not initiate any attack, this was the only reason why these players continued to farm.


    Full build! This would be the time that the character could maximize its ability and inflict high damage... If such would be the case, then, they had to wait for another minute for the players to really fight.


    Sofia''s fingers turned mechanical while her eyes were focused on her mobile screen, almost not blinking.


    She dragged her left thumb from side to side, as her character was going in different directions. The right thumb pressing the skill buttons to attack the creeps or jungle monsters.


    Stephen looked up and watched as Sofia comfortably stretched her legs on the carpeted floor. He leaned forward and adjusted his position to see her screen.


    "Summoner?" Stephen asked. Their elbows made a light contact causing a warm and tingling sensation.


    Sofia instantly straightened as she also felt something unknown moved within her chest.


    "Yeah, I read the details about the summoner character, I think, I''ll be able to play with this... just in case my tank will be banned by our future opponents," Sofia stated.


    Stephen grabbed a throw pillow that was sitting on the sofa and placed it near Sofia''s head. "This sitting position will hurt your shoulder," he gently said.


    "Oh, thanks, Steph! Are you done with the activities you are doing? Do you need help?" Sofia whispered and placed the throw pillow on the back of her neck.


    In fact, Stephen was just observing in his peripheral vision. And when he noticed that only Sofia''s hands were moving for quite a while, he paused his paperwork and took the initiative to examine what he was doing.


    He had already suspected that she was in-game due to the little movements and amount of focus in her phone.


    "I''m far from done. But, let me watch you play summoner first," Stephen said and took a sip of his coffee. He had put down the paper and pen in his hand and trained his eyes to Sofia''s character.


    "Ohh, it''s just an experiment. I had roughly understood how to use the skills in theory. So, checking if it was applicable in the battlefield," Sofia admitted.


    "Why summoner though?" Stephen directly asked. This question was also the mystery that the spectators and Krista19 wanted to uncover. Why not other characters that were more popular to the audience and relatable?


    "I like it. This character is unpredictable. Look," Sofia said. Then, she demonstrated her combo of second skill + first skill + third skill in one go.


    On her screen, the earth mage''s earlier actions were repeated for Stephen to see.


    The character dropped a seed on the ground. Then, as the first skill was activated, the mage sprinted to the location of an NPC monster and stunned it in the process.


    Sofia pressed the second skill again and her mage teleported to the location of the skin right away.


    "Wow! Nice! So, that''s how a summoner is played," Stephen praised unable to conceal his suprised expression.


    "Yes, so this is the mage summoner. Then, the support summoner is also a different skill set. This character is pretty nice for me," Sofia smiled but did not look up.


    In her mind, if her usual tank  character would be ban in banning mode, the summoner earth mage was closest to her gameplay.

 Chapter 146 - Custom Battle Room (4)

    "No clash? Ohh... woahh! 13 minutes!?" Stephen inquired after noticing the timer of the match.


    To most of the matches that happened in this game, 13 minutes could be considered as a turning point or even the ending minutes to decide the winning and losing side.


    "How did it come this far? Is there a bug in the game?" Stephen urged.


    Initially, he was just silently observing the lady beside him and did not look at the match duration. However, now, he wondered how the heck there was no confrontation by the two players when the match had already reached this minutes!?


    As he observed more, it would seem like the characters were just doing some sort of quests and minding their business at all!


    In Stephen''s point of view, there was only one possibility for this. The timer for the over all match had caused an error.


    "No, it''s not a bug in the game. We were just grinding gold for us to reach full build," Sofia said. Not an error!


    Krista19 was also not clueless about this. Even though she had evil schemes in gaining fans and viewers of her streams, she was still aware of how the game work.


    After she noticed some changes in the shop panel where they had to buy their items, she realized that it was better to wait for their character to be in the full build.


    "Oh, full build. Okay," Stephen responded. He straightened his back and stretched his knees without removing his eyes to the mobile screen.


    "Hehehe, I know, it''s kind of monotonous. But, I''m about to clash," Sofia assured. Then, she tapped the upper left corner of her mobile screen to view the entire map.


    "Yeah if it''s this 13 minutes... it is really dull. The zero kills and zero deaths, for a long game, what an odd match!" Stephen could not help but voiced his opinions.


    The gameplay was dull! It was a fair description of this match. Even Sofia was aware and agree of this feeling.


    In a tournament that requires entertainment for its audience, this kind of character gameplay was hardly satisfactory. Their viewers needed to be entertained by their performance for them to have continuous viewers.


    "Is this applicable for the tournament matches, Sof?" Stephen asked again.


    "I''ll make a good gameplay so that this character will be applicable," Sofia nodded. "But before I can finalize a backup role, we had to wait for the update of the game to see the banning mode. We can''t be sure as to how many characters in the match will be ban."


    "That... yeah, it might be different in pc games," Stephen also wondered about the possibility and stared at the upper part of the mobile screen which revealed the KDA of both players. It was indeed zero.


    On the map, Krista19 was nowhere to be found either. Sofia surveyed the entire possible area using her gaming map. She checked everywhere that her enemy could go to, but, she could not locate her enemy.


    "She''s hiding in the bushes for sure. Maybe, she is about to attack you? Careful!" Stephen stated as he realized that Sofia was searching for the location of her opponent.


    From the perspective of a marksman user, when an enemy is nowhere to be found, it''s equivalent to an ambush. He was concerned that Sofia''s instinct may be influenced by her tank gameplay.


    Tanks were hard to kill. So, even if there is an ambush, a tank character won''t die easily. They can take much damage than all other roles. But for a mage character, an ambush is enough to end its life.


    He was worried about this. Sofia may think that she could still survive a sneak attack.


    "Don''t worry. I got this," Sofia told him softly with a small smile on her lips.


    "The HP of mage is not as sturdy as a tank," Stephen stated despite the assurance from Sofia.


    "Hehe, yes sir!" Sofia playfully giggled. Her character continued to move and headed towards the top lane. She was sure that her enemy was there. All she had to do was to figure out her exact location.


    While CEO UNRIVALED was walking through the river area of the map, a figure suddenly flashed on her screen.


    Boom!


    A loud explosion reverberated that a big crater momentarily formed on the ground.


    It was the ultimate of the earth mage from Krista19. The giant seed bomb detonated right on Sofia''s location within a matter of seconds.


    It turned out that Stephen''s instinct was right. Krista19 took the initiative to sneak an attack.


    CEO UNRIVALED was almost hit by the AoE skill. Almost!


    If she had not noticed the figure of the giant seed moving in her direction, she would not be able to dodge the attack.


    Fortunately, this streamer could not conceal its character and the animation of the skill that she hurled on her was also visible.


    Sofia quickly activated her first skill, to increase the mobility of her character. She then stepped back and retreated swiftly like the wind.


    But Krista19 suddenly was not yet done. She followed and pursue CEO UNRIVALED using the same mobility skill. They were chasing each other for a few seconds.


    Just as Krista19 felt overjoyed for seeing that her opponent was running away like a coward, CEO UNRIVALED abruptly halted.


    Sofia''s movement skill was already in cool down. Her eyes glanced at the other skills before her speed started to turn slow.


    As her speed, decreased, Krista19 quickly close their distance. But, before she could cast one of her available skills, CEO UNRIVALED was already prepared.


    Sofia had anticipated her timing. Her character suddenly ceased retreating and instead, it turned around then charged forward, meeting her opponent in the same area.


    Then, the two earth mages cast their third skill. A root sprouted on the ground that producing a stunning effect towards the target.


    Both of them were immobilized at the same time.


    But, the moment CEO UNRIVALED was stunned by the third skill, a small yet visible curve appeared on Sofia''s lips.


    She had perfectly calculated her cooldown and the opponents cool down already.


    Since Krista19 used her ultimate upon revealing her location, Sofia was confident to counterattack her.


    When the stun effect wore off, she threw a giant seed giving the same explosion effect to her opponent.


    The distance was too close and the time was not enough for Krista19 to escape.


    "Ugh! Sh*t! She caught and killed me!" the woman using this character swore loudly that her voice echoed in every corner of her gaming room. Along with the sound of her cursing, the notification also announced the very awaited kill of all spectators on the battlefield...


    FIRST BLOOD!


    It took almost 14 minutes to carry a first blood. If it was not CEO UNRIVALED playing this match, the audience would have already exited the battle room and sleep!


    It was too painful to speculate something that was too dull to watch. Without action from both players, the match was almost depressing to see.


    "Ahh! Finally! A kill!" one of the spectators exclaimed with his sleepy eyes still watching the match.


    The level of relief from all audiences was almost the same.


    "This battle is too weird and abnormal! I have never seen a match that got a first blood this long."


    "The summoner is a long game character? or what is it really? Ahh, base on this match, it''s for long games!"


    "This battle will end with a single kill only!"


    Various speculations from the audiences started to appear as they watch CEO UNRIVALED pushed the top lane. The respawn of her opponent would buy her exactly 40 minutes to continue attacking. But even if her opponent will return to combat, their ultimate skills were still in cool down. This meant, they would hesitate to make another confrontation.


    Stephen who witnessed this on the side of Sofia could not help but question this abnormal cooldown of their ultimate skills.


    "Why is there no cooldown reduction in your item, Sof? That''s a crazy amount of cooldown. More than two minutes, what the heck!" Stephen muttered.


    "I read the description and back story of the summoner character. The system says that the seed bomb of this character caused its skill to develop an immunity to any cooldown reduction items. So, those items are useless. And, in the shop, those items are not also available," Sofia explained.


    She then opened the shop panel where the player would purchase their desired items in the match. Truth be told, the buttons for all items that focused on the cooldown reductions were gray. It meant that it can''t be bought by any means. The system was preventing any player to use their gold coins for a not useful item.


    "Ohh, so that''s why no gamer played this character. It''s too many restrictions," Stephen stated.


    "Yes, but if played with the right timing, this character can be applied like any other role. Look at the damage it caused and imagine if this is a clash. It could be an assassin with a variety of skills set," Sofia expressed.


    "How about the support role for this summoner?" Stephen curiously asked.


    "I haven''t tried the support," Sofia easily admitted.


    "Haven''t tried? This is your first time to play the mage role too?" Stephen asked in disbelief.


    "Yes, I''m still experimenting. Anyway, it''s a backup role just in case..." Sofia answered.


    It might be easy for most gamers to play several roles in the game. However, for Sofia, this transitioning was crucial. She had her own reservations and plans for she was no longer the same gamer that was addicted to this game.

 Chapter 147 - Surely An Interesting Life

    "My gosh! I don''t know if I want to share the perspective recording of this match. This will end in just one kill!" some of the spectators were lamenting after seeing that Sofia was really pushing to destroy all the opponent''s defensive towers.


    Krista19 also furrowed her brows and quickly sent a message on their game chat.


    Krista19: Do not end yet!


    It was not a plea but a demand. If she would be defeated just by a single kill, it was a huge blow to her reputation. There was no way she would forgive Sofia if she would really end the game.


    But after she sent her chat, she saw a prompt reply. And Sofia''s response almost made her vomit out of anger.


    CEO UNRIVALED: It''s late, time to sleep!


    Krista19 face palmed. Her two hands pressed her cheek and tried to calm herself.


    Time to sleep! What kind of reasoning is this?!


    There was no gamer who would use this kind of poor alibi that she had known of!


    The moment Krista19 respawned from her death, she tried to block Sofia''s aggressive attacks. But because of the lack of ultimate, she had no choice but to continuously retreat. If will be killed again, it would be more embarrassing!


    She could not afford to gain another death! She could not afford to let Sofia end their battle either.


    But, it was inevitable! CEO UNRIVALLED was unstoppable.


    When the creeps entered the vicinity of Krista19''s base, she could only stun those tiny soldiers to delay their movements.


    Sofia was already decided. She planned to battle with the streamer in just less than 15 minutes. So, when the timer reached almost the time that she set to finish the battle, her focus of attack was already on the base.


    "Ahh, no wonder the condition of entering the battle room to watch this match was not so high. It turned out, the game is not as spectacular as what I have anticipated!"


    "It''s still cool. What an unusual game!"


    "At least, we saw the potential of the summoner character in this game. This is rare to see!"


    By the time the game was decided, every spectator''s views were divided. Some thought that it was not so great and they were disappointed by its flow. Others were still appreciative of seeing the opportunity for summoner character.


    In the end, those who watched the game went to their social media accounts and posted "GG" as well as a congratulatory message for Sofia. The other netizens also asked them to post the spectator''s recordings for the gameplay.


    Most of them hesitated to upload the recordings of their perspective, however, there was one spectator who took the courage and sent the video to the public with a caption of "Summoner: It''s a unique match!"


    On the other hand, Krista19 was fuming in anger as the big ''DEFEAT'' word was displayed on her screen.


    It was over in just a single death. For sure, she would be a laughingstock to their community. She was immune to bashers calling her trash, but this kind of result from her match with Sofia still give her a hurtful impression.


    For all the effort that she had done to grind EXP level and gold and reached the full build only to die once and be defeated right away, it was unfair!


    She felt a deep hole of disappointment on her chest. It was a bitter feeling of frustration.


    Her hand clasped the mobile phone tightly.


    "Time to sleep? Does she think I''m stupid? It''s just 11pm! What a joke! You are just afraid that I would get even with you if you don''t push!" she muttered coldly, unable to move on about the result of their match.


    For a streamer like her who usually sleeps at 3am, Sofia''s reasoning for ending their battle was too shallow. To say, 11pm was too early for her.


    But she was no longer in the mood to stream too. "This is not the last time that I will fight with you. Hmmph! If you think you have proved yourself, it was nothing but cowardice!"


    Krista19 continued to talk in the air. She then gritted her teeth and decided to leave her gaming room full of bitterness in her heart.


    Meanwhile, Sofia and Stephen were just finishing their coffee. The box of their donut was also empty.


    "I''ll sleep now," Sofia told Stephen. She then stood up on the floor and stretched her entire body. Despite the coffee that she drank, she was still determined to go to sleep.


    "Mmmn, I''ll crash here on the couch if I''ll get sleepy," Stephen nodded and returned his attention to his papers. Unlike Sofia, the effect of coffee was kicking in his system. He did not felt any drowsiness at all!


    Sofia walked to her bedroom and snatch a pillow and fresh blanket. "Use this, Steph... Good night!" she casually said and handed them to Stephen.


    "Thank you! Good night, Sof!" Stephen said while accepting the blanket and pillow. He then transferred from the carpeted floor to the sofa.


    Sofia only nodded her head before turning her back and walked back to her bedroom. Stephen could only look at her figure until the door shut closed.


    "In my past life, I never had someone who stayed at my place for a night," Sofia muttered as she prepared herself for bed.


    She had friends for sure, but, it was insulting for her friend''s status if they stayed at the house that they did not own to sleep.


    At most, the friends she had in the past would be more than willing to get their hotel room rather than stay in her mansion. And so is she. Sofia would never also stay with other places if it was not her property.


    This was the elite life that she had lived.  People of her caliber had status and all their actions had consequences. In their mind, if they to a house that is not their property, it would be equivalent as they were beggars. Such an act of humiliation that they were not willing to give in.


    "This new life is sure interesting!" Sofia whispered as she lay in her bed and dosed in sleep.

 Chapter 148 - A Lonely Place To Dwell

    The next day, Sofia woke up earlier than the alarm that she set. It was 3:45 AM. And she set up her alarm to buzz at 4 AM.


    Whilst a person mostly returns to sleep given that the time was too early to do something, Sofia did not. She cancelled her alarm on the phone before she jumped out of bed and walked away from her bedroom.


    "I''ve been drinking too much coffee lately. I''ll just boil some ginger," she quietly thought while heading to her kitchen area.


    On her way, she took a glance at her living room area and saw Stephen curling on her couch, covered with the blankets she provided.


    Their empty mugs of coffee were no longer on the mini table as well as the empty box of donuts.


    Sofia raised her eyebrow. "It turns out this man knew how to keep the place organize." she softly muttered.


    Although there were two piles of papers on the carpeted floor, these papers were arranged neatly. This side of Stephen was something that she just discovered. It''s not that she had prejudice, she just did not expect Stephen to take the initiative to clean.


    She was too preoccupied to even bother with their empty mugs last night. She would have washed them after waking up.


    The mugs were not also in the sink, which meant that Stephen really washed them before he slept.


    Such a simple gesture had actually a great impact. Sofia could tell that Stephen was a reliable person.


    Minutes passed like a blur and Sofia sat on her dining table, reading unread emails on her laptop. A fog of smoke coming from the cup of her ginger brew evaporated on the side.


    Most emails came from their private press with the sender called Nathan Wang. She remembered that Jing Jing mentioned the name of her boss quite a few times as boss Wang. So, she easily identified the email had come from the personal email of Jing Jing''s boss.


    Several emails mentioned them about sponsorship and lists of brand deals that wanted the Chronos squad to be an endorser. Sofia examined the lists of products that were on the list before she gave her response.


    By the time dawn breaks, Sofia completed reading all her emails. But she was not finished yet. She started typing three contract proposals on the word file. One contract was for a deed of sale of the property that she wanted to start their business. The other contract was for those fraternity boys, in case they would accept employment under her. The third one was for the Chronos squad and their future as the Chronos company.


    If Sofia was in a company, these contracts should be prepared by lawyers. But, because they can''t afford to get or hire a private lawyer yet, she had to make the contracts herself and notarized the documents in a public notary later.


    Writing a contract requires a meticulous outline but because she had approved so many contracts in her past life, she did not find it hard to draft one.


    Her only concern was if her friends right now would ask her about how she came up with the documents, she had no alibi for it.


    All she could do was pray that those teens won''t be too curious. She was a gamer and is not supposed to be knowledgeable of these things!


    Sofia was fully immersed in the documents that she was typing. Her fingers were nimble and the sound of keyboard keys was like a melody in the kitchen area.


    In the living room, an alarm from Stephen''s phone buzzed loudly. But the boy only hit the snooze and went back to sleep.


    Sofia did not also notice the alarm and continued typing on her laptop. There was an urgency in her expression as if her brain was functioning at full speed while her fingers were interpreting and typing all the words in the file.


    The second time Stephen''s alarm sounded, he went to the side button and turn off the device before sleeping again. He buried his face on the pillow and comfortably laid on his back.


    It was evident that Stephen did not want to wake up yet. He dozed off just a few minutes when Sofia woke up around 3:30 AM. The man was burning his midnight oil just so he could finish all his left behind activities.


    He suddenly felt inspired to do better with his grades. He does not know exactly the reason where he got the inspiration. This man was ready to be expelled from his school.


    He did not mind for he knew that if his father would intervene, he would still be able to get into other schools. But now, he did not felt the need to depend on any intervention from his father. He felt that he could excel on his own.


    Just that, he really exhausted himself that he just craved to sleep all day. He even forgot where he was. All he wanted to do is lay in there and take a rest.


    Unfortunately for him, when Sofia finished typing all the contracts she decided to awaken Stephen. The ginger brew on her cup was already cold but she still drank all of it before she left the kitchen.


    Her steps were fast that in the blink of an eye, she appeared on the side of the couch where Stephen was sleeping.


    "Steph! Stephen!" she gently nudges him in the shoulder and shook him.


    "Hmmn?" Stephen''s groggy voice responded without making any moving.


    "It''s 7:30 AM! Steph, wake up now," Sofia whispered and continued to give him a slight nudge until he finally sat up. But his eyes were still close even if he was already in a sitting position.


    "What time is it?" he grumbled. A deep frown creased all over his forehead.


    "It''s time to wake up," Sofia slightly stifled a laugh. Stephen''s bed hair was in a mess all over the place.


    As if the man knew the source of Sofia''s amusement, he raised his hand and combed his hair using his fingers.


    "Sof, I want to be absent from school and just sleep today!" Stephen complained in a tone that sounded more like a child asking permission from his parent.


    "Oh come, on! You can even pull out an entire night playing online games and still go to school the next morning, what is a few activities?" Sofia said. "Ah, don''t you dare go back to sleep?! Get off on the couch, you''ll be late!" she added after noticing that Stephen was about to lay his back again.


    Stephen scratched the back of his head and yawned. Then, he opened his eyes and smile sheepishly at Sofia.


    "Good morning, Sof!" he murmured while looking at her.


    "Good morning, Steph. Now, start the day right by showing up in your classes. I have few errands to do too. I''m about to leave now," Sofia said.


    This time, Stephen took notice that Sofia was indeed holding a laptop in her hand and a sling bag attached to her shoulder. She was already dressed in jeans and a white v-neck shirt.


    "Where are you off to today?" Stephen asked. He stood from the couch and folded the blanket that he used.


    "I have many routes to go. I''ll meet a district councilor to complain. Hehe Then, the owner of the property that we looked at last night. Also, I might meet the owner of our private press for possible sponsorship and brand promotions," Sofia listed.


    "Wow, you have lots of things to do for our squad. What can we do as members?" Stephen asked.


    "Yeah, do your best in school so you''ll be able to help me soon," Sofia responded. Her eyes were like twinkling that Stephen almost thought that she was speaking a joke at him.


    "Ah, this is our company, but it feels wrong if you do all the job. We will be a useless partner in this business! Are you sure you don''t want us to help?" Stephen inquired.


    "Oh no! You guys are not useless in this business. All of you have tasks, but, right now, I''ll have to finalize and secure a place for our business first," Sofia quickly corrected.


    "Why are you doing this, Sof? I''m just curious because I could tell that you are very capable. If you can do this thing alone, why do you want us to join you?" Stephen inquired in a serious tone.


    "Because we are friends. And if I do business alone, what am I going to do when I reached the top of the corporate world? It''s a lonely place to dwell, so, I better bring you guys with me," Sofia casually answered.


    "A lonely place to dwell?" Stephen paused by the idea. "How could you say that? Those business tycoons do not look lonely at all," he continued.


    Sofia looked at him for a long time. She was tempted to respond something along the line of, ''Trust me, standing on the peak of the corporate world is the loneliest place I''ve been. There is no one that could celebrate with the sincere happiness for the triumph that I achieved. All of the people around me are just waiting for my feet to fall.''


    However, Sofia only smiled at the boy and did not speak anymore. Stephen was born rich, he had his own view of the lifestyle that the upper class do.


    She did not plan to convince him to believe her.


    She knew that Stephen will have his time to figure this thing out when he grew older.

 Chapter 149 - Stephens Blunt Refusal To His Father

    "The top huh... How did you make the conclusion, Sof?" Stephen repeated however Sofia''s mouth was tightly shut. She was also pretending to read something on her phone.


    "Everybody wants to be on top. That is the goal. Even you want to be there.  But you are saying that it''s a lonely place. Isn''t that ironic? Why would someone wants to be in a place that does not bring happiness?" Stephen probed further when he sensed that Sofia won''t respond to him.


    Finally, the lady looked up and kept her phone back in her pocket. A small curve appeared on her lips and her eyes sparkled with amusement.


    "That''s for you to find out. You''ll know once you get there! Hehe," Sofia choose to evade the matter completely. "Right now, time is running, and I made several appointments. So, let''s get out of this place. Don''t dream of me leaving you the keys to my unit. That only happens in movies."


    "Fine, I''ll figure that out myself. I''ll work hard. And you''re kicking me out of your place," Stephen dramatically expressed his chest as if he was hurt. He picked the piles of papers and put them inside his bag.


    "HAHA, what nonsense! You could be a good actor for that. I''m not kicking you out. It''s to start the new day!" Sofia teased him seeing Stephen''s playful shrugged.


    "You got me," Stephen conceded with his acting and gave her a goofy grin.


    But deep down in his mind, he was still thinking of how could Sofia made such a strange conclusion. The lady sounded she was too certain that her tone gave him a hint that such a thing was right straight from an experience.


    However, only those who had reached some level of maturity would probably describe the peak of success as a lonely place. And Sofia''s age was too young for her to have that maturity... or so he thought?


    Stephen turned quiet as he finished gathering all his things.


    "By the way, how are those activities? Did you finish all of them?" Sofia asked while gesturing at the papers in his bag.


    "Yeah, I''ve finished them. I couldn''t sleep after the coffee. Unlike someone here who slept peacefully after drinking a full cup of it," Stephen casually replied.


    "Sleeping is a talent besides my gaming skills. But, I''ll be switching to ginger brew for a while and avoid coffee. I might start palpitating from it," Sofia commented. She was also aware of the side effects if she continued to drink caffeinated beverages.


    "If sleeping is a talent, I am also qualified to compete with you on it. I could sleep the entire day if you did not wake me," Stephen pouted.


    "Are you that tired?" Sofia asked suspiciously.


    They were gamers and their sleeping habits were really not the same as normal people. Some of them even go on with their day without any sleep. So, in her mind, there was no way Stephen would really be tired to just want to sleep for the entire day.


    "Nah, not really. I''m fully awake now," Stephen confirmed with a dry laugh.


    "Look at you. If you are exhausted, just take a rest on your breaks," Sofia suggested.


    Stephen nodded and the two of them quietly exited her unit. They passed through the empty corridors which also hinted that the people in this building were mostly asleep.


    "What time did you wake up, Sof?" Stephen asked in an attempt of making their conversation continue.


    "It''s 15 minutes before 4 AM," Sofia directly answered.


    As they stepped outside the building, the sunrise instantly blinded them. Sofia took her sunglasses to protect her eyes. Stephen also raised her arm and used his palm to cover his face from the light.


    "Your bodyguards abandoned you!" Sofia joked as they continued walking and almost reached the main highway.


    "I hope that would happen. But they are more like digging into your family background. Hehe," Stephen paused and looked at Sofia to see her reaction. But the lady only looks straight ahead of them with no emotion that could be read in her face.


    " Do you happened to have something to hide? Those men respond to my father''s order. I''m pretty sure that my old man had assigned one or two men to check on you and Joey," Stephen declared. His tone suddenly sounded wary.


    At some point, he knew that he had to make Sofia aware of his bodyguards and warn her of their jobs. They were not with him just to provide protection. They were following his movements to spy on him and the people that he hangs out with.


    This matter was not something that should be revealed. Otherwise, Sofia could sue his father, or worst case, she would distance herself from Stephen.


    However, Stephen would not also let her be in the dark. It would be unfair if he won''t tell her about the ugly side of having such bodyguards. Besides, he was ready however Sofia would react to his warning. He would respect her decisions if ever she would distance herself.


    Stephen glanced at her and gave Sofia an expectant look. He was silently praying that she would not react badly to what he just said.


    And to his surprise, it would seem that his prayer was answered by the heavens. Sofia''s reaction was only a burst of mild and feminine laughter that sounded like a melody to his ears.


    "Hahaha... If they will check my background, I will wish them luck. A simple person like me holds so many mysteries. I have multiple secrets that their expertise is not enough to uncover," Sofia stated while her laughter continued to echo on Stephen''s ears.


    Of course, Sofia was already aware of these things. She was familiar with the agency that handled those bodyguards the minute she saw them. But upon hearing Stephen''s warning, she could not help but admire his honesty.


    Stephen also sighed in relief. He assumed that Sofia''s response was nothing serious and that she was just being playful to reassure him.


    If only he had known the meaning behind Sofia''s words, he would definitely lose the ability to feel relief by her reaction.


    "See ya later, Steph!" Sofia waved her hand as a bus stopped in front of them. Stephen mirrored her gesture and stared at the bus until it was gone.


    His place was just a few blocks across from Sofia''s apartment. Hence, he easily crossed the road on the pedestrian lane and sprinted to his place.


    Even though it was still a few meters away from his place, he could tell that his front door was already open. He did not look surprised by what he discovered. Instead, he felt a sudden wave of a headache coming through him.


    "Here we go," Stephen mumbled and released a long sigh as if he was preparing for something big to happen.


    "So, this is the place where you live after you run away! Hmmph!" Stephen''s father greeted him with an ice-cold glare that was enough to make anyone frozen.


    "Morning, dad!" Stephen said and continued to walk towards his room. He already anticipated who would be inside his place. And he acted as if he was not bothered by the deadly tone from the old man.


    "Stephen Ching, do you still have respect me, as your father!?" the man shouted.


    "It''s not about respect, dad. You know that it is not the issue," Stephen shook his head in disapproval.


    "Hmmph! You better meet with the lady that I have chosen for you. Asked her to eat with you this lunch or dinner! You are too much! This lady is so refined that she even waited for you during Valentine''s day to arrive on your date, yet, you never showed up! My patience is wearing thin of your stubbornness!" the old man yelled and followed Stephen from behind.


    "Dad, I won''t be your tool to expand your business!" Stephen said coldly. It was not just a statement but a complete conviction. He had learn to use Sofia''s tone. One that would not give most people a room to argue.


    "Cheh! It will be you who would benefit from my plans. This is for your future!" the old man scolded him. His tone was also laced with great irritation and anger. All of a sudden, he felt helpless.


    "Dad, I have my plans. And I will make my choices. I hope that the day will come that you will stop treating me as your tool for business and treat me like a real son. I still have classes to attend," Stephen said and exited his home. He left his father and never looked back.


    "That brat! Who does he think he is? If I don''t interfere with his decisions, who knows if that unscrupulous young girl would do! Bah! Maybe she had seduced my son!" the old man clenched his fist and his face become red in fury.


    He had not yet forgotten how Sofia had talked back at him the night that they met after the victory party. And each time he would think of their encounter, a bubble of hatred would spread on his heart.


    "Someone, come!" the old man called and in an instant, the three bodyguards appeared in front of him out of nowhere.


    "Boss, do you have your orders?" one of the bodyguards inquired in a very polite tone.


    "Tell me, have you investigated the background of that girl?" Stephen''s father asked.


    "Boss, we have. Here is the result of our investigation," one of the bodyguards answered. He then handed the old man a folder that contained his reports.

 Chapter 150 - A Favor (1)

    "Did you cover everything? Have you checked even the tiny details of that audacious girl?" Stephen''s father asked while looking at the head of his bodyguards. He could not help but sensed a shadow of doubt in his mind. It felt as if his instinct was telling him not to underestimate the young lady.


    "Yes, boss! The agency made sure that even the birth of the young lady was investigated," the head bodyguard answered with his clear voice.


    The old man nodded his head and started to read the contents of the report.


    "A mountain girl huh? And an orphan! No wonder she was desperate to attach herself to my son! Tsk, surely this wicked girl is plotting for the wealth of my family!" the old man stated his assumptions loudly.


    All information about the original Sofia was printed neatly on the paper that he was checking. From Sofia''s humble background to the death of her parents due to the landslide incident.


    The man kept skimming the details on each page until he got to the portion of the tournament that had just happened a few days before.


    "Just a small girl trying to target my son. I cannot allow that to happen. Where is this girl now?" the old man asked and stopped reading the papers.


    "Boss, according to my subordinate who was secretly following her, the young lady traveled by bus and stopped at the municipal hall. The last report said that they are at the office of the district councilors." the leader of the guards responded.


    "Do you mean, she went to the municipal hall of our district? Is she also seducing politicians?" the old man asked in disbelief.


    Not only this old man had wronged Sofia for accusing her of being desperate to attach to his son, but he also created another issue of the lady seducing politicians!


    "This... ahhm... b-boss... " the leader of the bodyguards looked conflicted. He wanted to speak something, however, he did not know if his boss would be happy if he told him about it.


    "What''s the matter? Are there other reports that are not in this folder?" Stephen''s father asked the bodyguard.


    "Ehh, boss ... the matter about seducing politicians and the young master, we cannot find any clue about it. This young lady does not seem to have any malicious intention to ... ahhm... to the young master," the other bodyguard answered when his leader was unwilling to tell their boss about the entire findings they had. He scratched his head and pretended to look clueless. ''We followed them last night and it seemed that your son was the one who wants to be with her,'' he mentally added. The bodyguard does not speak his last thoughts loudly, lest, he would receive a heavy scolding from the old man.


    "Are you blind? There is no need for you to find a clue! Just by my memory of how that unruly girl talked back at me that night, I could tell her wicked character! She had no respect at all!" the man stated.


    The air around them suddenly felt awkward that the bodyguards could only look on the floor silently.


    "Get the young master after his classes and tell him to have dinner with the mayor''s daughter. Do whatever is necessary if he refused!" the old man demanded before he left the bodyguards.


    As soon as he went out of Stephen''s place, a black car that was heavily tinted was already waiting for him on the side of the road. A driver came out of the car and opened the door for him. Then, they swiftly headed towards the north.


    "What should we do?" one of the bodyguards asked their leader.


    A long sigh escaped from the man in question. "I don''t know. Does the boss wants us to drag the young master to the dinner venue so he could dine with the daughter of the mayor?" the leader finally expressed his frustration.


    "I think that is what the boss wanted to imply. Leader, let''s just do our job. The young master will understand," the two other bodyguards stated and tapped the shoulder of their leader.


    ~


    Municipal Hall of District 7


    Sofia arrived too early from her appointment with District Councilor Lucas Martinez. She was in the cafeteria and busied herself by observing the entire layout of the place.


    The hall was fairly decent to her taste from the perspective of a traveling soul who had lived in luxury.


    Sofia was amazed by the architectural design of the hall as well as the interior decorations of the place. She could also tell that the government of their district had really focused on the comfort of the people. She could tell that some of the pieces of furniture in the place were priceless.


    After observing the place, she opened her phone and decided to kill time by playing. However, the minute she clicked the button for the game, a different message had prompted on her screen.


    The game finally released the update which probably all gamers had been anticipating. The ban mode.


    "Nice," Sofia said after reading the message prompt on her screen.


    The notification stated that the game will not be available for the next half hour due to the implementation of the ban mode for all servers of the game.


    While Sofia''s attention was still on her phone, a lady approached her...


    "Hi! Is this seat available!?"


    Sofia looked up and saw a familiar face in front of her offering a friendly smile. She easily remembered the lady for there was an air of nobility that surrounded her and the lady also possessed a rare beauty. She had seen this lady in the gym during the tournament.


    "No one is occupying that seat," Sofia replied.


    "I''m Grace. Do you mind if I sit here?" the lady asked.


    "Ohh... I''m Sofia. It''s okay if you take that seat. I am just waiting here for my appointment later," Sofia explained.


    "Thanks! Sofia... you are that gamer who won in the district tournament, right?" the lady inquired.


    "Yes, I am part of the Chronos squad," Sofia responded.


    "Don''t you have a class? They said that the champions of the tournaments were high schoolers. Why are you here?" the lady inquired. Her tone was too gently that even with her simultaneous questioning, Sofia did not find any fault in it.


    "We are students. But my class is still at night. Do you need something from me, Grace?" Sofia finally returned a question to the lady. She kept her phone back in her pocket and looked at the lady in the eye.


    Sofia thought that there was no way that the lady would approach her randomly. She must have some matters that she needed to discuss with her.


    "Can I ask you a favor? I made a little research about you and I found out that the young master of the Lee clan is your friend?" Grace started.


    "You mean you investigated about me?" Sofia chuckled. The lady did smother her word and used the term ''research''. But Sofia was confident that the original owner of her body had nothing illegal to hide. So, she did not really mind if her background would be investigated.


    "Uhm... kinda," Grace forced a laugh when she realized that Sofia was too straightforward.


    "It''s okay. Did you mean Brent? The founder of Lee Gaming Squad?" Sofia asked her.


    "Yes, can you help me?" Grace confirmed directly asked for her help.


    Sofia rubbed her palms and became silent for a long time. She waited for the lady to elaborate as to what help she wanted from her. However, as she glanced at the lady, Sofia noticed that the beauty looked embarrassed.


    "There is no need to be embarrassed. I will help you as long as it is within my capacity," Sofia stated.


    "Can we talk to a more private room?" Grace asked.


    Sofia took her phone and checked the time. She then nodded at her in agreement. "Do you work here?" Sofia asked while the two of them started to walk towards a particular office.


    "It''s my father who worked here," Grace answered and that''s when another realization hits Sofia. This lady is the daughter of their district mayor.


    ''No wonder, there is an air of nobility around her,'' Sofia mentally noted.


    The two of them stopped at the room next to the mayor''s office. There was only one long table and several chairs around. Sofia easily recognized that it was a conference room for their government officials.


    "Sofia, can I trust you? Whatever we discuss in this room, please don''t tell anyone. This is rather embarrassing," Grace said after the two of them settled their seats.


    "Mmn, sure! About Brent, I am not sure what kind of investigation report you have but he is a fellow friend in gaming. We used to play online games a lot in the past. But, we also parted ways after he stopped playing," Sofia explained.


    "Okay. Well, it''s not just about the young master of the Lee clan. This is also about Mr. Ching," Grace stated.


    "Mr. Ching? Which one? Do you mean the son or the old man....?" Sofia curiously asked.


    "Both. I know you are also involved with the father and son based on my research," Grace replied and the small smile on her face turned into a straight line. Her expression became serious.


    "Stephen is a member of the Chronos squad. But for his father, we have met on the wrong side of the table. He has an ugly impression of me. So, if you have a favor to ask involving the old man, don''t think I can," Sofia warned her.

 Chapter 151 - A Favor (2)

    "Even though you are young, your manner is way above your age," Grace suddenly muttered her thoughts. Her eyes widened in panic after realizing that she just spoke what was in her mind...


    "Ohh my gosh! I''m so sorry. I did not mean it to sound rude. It''s just that how you speak gives off a feeling that you are the same age as me," Grace quickly followed her initial statement with an apology.


    On the opposite side of the table, Sofia also felt a slight panic. But it was just a split second before she rearranged her calm composure.


    ''This lady is also observant! It''s quite rare for someone to notice the mannerism of other people in just a short period of time,'' she mentally noted.


    "What favor do you want to ask from me, Grace?" Sofia changed their discussion before they become awkward with each other.


    "Ohh..." Grace was surprised for Sofia actually ignored her rude comment. In her mind, no lady, especially a teenager wanted to be called mature.


    Grace clasped her hands and placed them above the desk. She then slightly leaned forward and spoke, "Could you introduce me to the young master of the Lee clan as your friend? Uhm, I know that we are just acquaintances but you are the only person that I have found to have a close relationship with him. So, I hope you can help me?"


    "That is rather odd... yes? I guess I could do that. But, why do you request to be introduced to Brent? With your ability, you can easily talk with him without my help," Sofia responded with a slight reluctance in her tone.


    "I just want to be introduced to him as an ordinary friend. Not someone with a special background," Grace simply answered.


    "You know, I think that Brent knows you even without introduction. You are the daughter of the mayor in the district, right?" Sofia clarified.


    "I am. Well, my father has a project that about building a port in this district. And the Chings are involved. They are the ones that would handle the project under their private company," Grace paused and stood from her seat. She then walked towards the door and twisted the knob to see if it was locked.


    Sofia understood her cautious action. Perhaps, the information that she will be sharing with her was confidential. "Building a port is a good advantage to us, citizens in this district," she commented as her eyes followed the movement of Grace.


    "Yes, it is an advantage. But, to strengthen the partnership between my father and the private company of the Chings... I---" Grace suddenly stopped talking. She took a deep breath and her expression looked troubled.


    "Is it marriage?" Sofia finished her words. She easily predicted what the lady was hesitating to speak.


    "Y-yes. You are smart to know that," Grace said. She looked at the side of the window and stared outside for a long time.


    Sofia decided to stay silent. She could not tell that Stephen had confessed an interest in her. At the same time, she had roughly deduced what the lady wanted to do.


    "So, last Valentine''s day, my father arranged for me to meet Mr. Ching''s son for a date. Frankly, he is not bad in terms of appearance. But, I was disappointed that he did not have the courage to meet with me. I waited for him at our reserved table alone with many couples around. It was embarrassing," Grace narrated her experience.


    Sofia eyed her with full of sympathy. "Sorry to hear that. Stephen was in the tournament with our fellow squad members," Sofia explained.


    "I know. I just thought that he would show up and be civil about our parent''s arrangement. But it was clear that he does not want to do anything about it. I don''t like him anymore," Grace sighed bitterly.


    "And Brent?" Sofia questioned.


    "Yes, I always have a special feeling with the young master of the Lee clan. We were acquainted in one of my vacation tours. He was there. But we were too young at that time. So, I''m sure he had forgotten about it," Grace stated.


    "You like Brent romantically? I think he is single until now. That man is a work addict!" she said while examining the old memories of the original Sofia.


    "I don''t know if I like him in that level. But between Mr. Ching and him, I think you know my choice," Grace replied.


    "Don''t be offended, I have also something to tell you about Stephen. Although I am not in an official relationship with him, I look forward to it," Sofia directly said.


    I look forward to it! She delivered the words with a firmness that Grace could not help but stare at Sofia with a mouth wide open. For a while, she became speechless by Sofia''s words.


    "Although I know these details already, I am still surprised hearing such a steady claim coming from you. When I did my investigation about you, my investigator also told me that Stephen confessed his feelings to you," Grace finally managed to speak her response.


    "Let''s just say, I know what I want. And I have self-awareness of my ability," Sofia stated.


    "I have not made a mistake of approaching with you," Grace grinned and felt at ease.


    "Grace, somehow, I know what you want and I don''t want to get entangled with the matter that involved your feelings. I can introduce you to Brent, but I hope that if there would be a problem that would arise between the two of you, I won''t be a scapegoat," Sofia told her. She wanted to be clear that whatever happened between the lady and Brent, it should be their responsibility.


    "Ohh, if the result after you introduce me to the young master of the Lee clan is bad, I won''t blame you at all! You don''t need to worry about it. Just introduce me to him... as if we are mutual friends," Grace agreed.


    "Friends... we are gamers though. So, most of us had virtual friendships. Do you play online games?" Sofia asked her.


    "I don''t. But I''m sure you can think of some reason how our friendship formed," Grace answered.


    "Do you have suggestions?" Sofia asked. There was no way she would tire herself of an alibi just to introduce the lady to Brent. In Sofia''s mind, since the lady was the one asking for a favor, she must have some considerations in her mind already about it.


    "How about this meeting today? Just tell him that we become a friend after we met here," Grace replied. She initially thought that Sofia would cover all bases of the introduction.


    "Ohh, you have a point. It would be easier to use today as a reference. Then, I will contact Brent right away to meet us for lunch. Let''s see if he is available," Sofia stated. She then dialed the man''s phone and place it on the loudspeaker so that the lady would know their conversation.


    "Okay," Grace mumbled while listening to the ringing sound of the phone.


    "Sof! Yo! I have sent a gift, have you received them?" Brent spoke easily on the other line.


    He was just reading some company reports in his office when he saw the call from Sofia. There was no hello or any formal greeting. It was just a casual ''yo!'' that made Grace felt envious. It only meant that Brent was really close to Sofia.


    "Oh right! The skins! Thank you for your generosity, rich kid! Hehe. I received mine and Stephen had also seen his. My other members are still in school, so, they will be online after their class," Sofia answered.


    "You''re welcome!" Brent beamed.


    "Right, I called to check if you are available for lunch today? Since you have gifted us an excellent set of skin, we would like to invite you to eat out!" Sofia stated.


    "Oh, wow! Yes! Where?" Brent asked.


    "I''ll chat the venue later. But, are you available, or do you have some business matters that needed to be prioritized?"  Sofia returned the question to him.


    "Well, I can eat lunch with your squad. But, my members won''t be available. They are out of town on some hiking trip," Brent stated.


    "Okay, just you is enough to represent your squad! But, I''ll bring a friend!" Sofia enthusiastically answered.


    "No problem! See you then? I''ll double-time reading my company report so that I can sign this and be available at lunch!" Brent chuckled.


    "See you later, Brent!" Sofia said before hanging up their conversation.


    Grace''s eyes twinkled in admiration while staring at Sofia. "Wow! You are really close!"


    "We are good friends online. Brent is not so warm and he is slightly reserved but once you know him, you''ll actually see a soft side of him," Sofia told her.


    "Yes," Grace affirmed with a huge smile on her face. She was extremely glad and satisfied of following her instinct and asked Sofia the favor that she had been planning for days.

 Chapter 152 - A Suggestion For The District Councilors Secretary

    "This lunch, I assume you made considerations with the venue, or do you want me to choose?" Sofia formally asked after the two of them had reached an agreement.


    "Hmmm... Sofia, frankly speaking, I don''t know which place is suitable to go. The young master of the Lee clan is an esteemed person. I am troubled by the place. Will you help me choose?" Grace requested.


    "Brent is not that high, Grace. You think too highly of him," Sofia said and crossed her legs. She could not understand why this lady who had a powerful family was troubled by just choosing a place for them to eat.


    "He is high! The Lee family is one of the richest people in this district," Grace reasoned.


    "Oh please... Your family holds the authority of the entire district. Brent is not above. You are the same level as him," Sofia''s told her. How could this lady be so modest!


    "Ah.. you are really young. You know, it''s my family, not me. I have no control over the authority that we possessed. I am nothing but a tool for them," Grace pouted. She could not help but feel sad. Every day, she needed to dress properly and be mindful of her appearance in the public. She could not shout or yell. There were so many rules that she needed to obey so that the image of her family won''t be affected.


    "Daughters..." Sofia suddenly trailed while several thoughts crossed her mind. She remembered how it was before she gained power before. How could she forget that in the elite families, daughters were arranged to secure partnerships? Even in her last life, Sofia needed to prove her worth first before she gained control of her family so she could lead their company.


    "Maybe you don''t understand me. But, if Brent won''t agree to be with me, I have no choice but to follow my father''s order," Grace explained.


    Sofia stared at her for a while before she took a deep breath. "What you are asking for Brent may be too much. But, he is also in the right age for marriage. Sof, talk with him directly so that both of you would not have any misunderstanding in the future," she spoke in a serious tone. It was clear in her mind that Grace was only looking for someone that could help her escape from the arrangement that her parents made for her.


    Although Grace''s action was beneficial to Sofia, she also felt conflicted knowing that the lady would only use her friend. It could be a potential mess if not talked about properly as early as possible.


    "Are you thinking that I am using the young master of the Lee clan?" Grace suddenly asked as if she was able to read Sofia''s thoughts.


    "Yes. I''m quite worried that you would take advantage of him. But, he won''t be sitting in his esteemed position right now if he would be easily taken advantage of. So, I just wish the both of you a good luck," Sofia answered without sugarcoating her words.


    "You are too frank," Grace chuckled. "Don''t worry, I won''t take advantage of him. He would have his benefits if he will agree to my proposal," Grace stated with a strong determination on her face.


    "I will call the Rosen Club and see if we can have lunch there," Sofia diverted their conversation back to their planned venue. She then searched the contact number of the establishment on the internet and dialed the number.


    "Hmmn, the Rosen Club? Okay," Grace nodded while looking at her. This was the second time that Sofia called using her phone in front of her and each time she observed, she could not help but admire how refined Sofia''s hand gestures were. Even the expression on Sofia''s face while waiting for the call to connect was something that gave off a different feeling towards her heart.


    "Yes? Do you have a spare table for ten people this lunch?"


    -


    "Uhuh! We will get that under my name, Sofia. Do you need other details for my companions?"


    -


    "Alright, thank you!"


    -


    Grace played with her fingernails while Sofia made the reservation. Not long after, Sofia finished her conversation and confirmed the venue of their lunch.


    "I''ve made the reservation. But, how do you plan to be introduced? Do you want to come together with my squad? Or do you want to go there alone and pretend that I will invite you to join our table?" Sofia inquired.


    "Haha, I  never presumed that you have reached your considerations up to this matter in your mind. I only thought that if you would agree then you will introduce me. It turns out that your ability to plan is few steps ahead of me! I think I will choose your second option," Grace said with a big smile on her face.


    Sofia just nodded upon hearing the lady''s compliment. Grace sounded impressed by her questions but she did not think too much of it. In reality, she just wanted to speed up their conversation for it was almost time for her to go on her appointment with the district councilor.


    "Then, I''ll see you at lunch," Sofia said before she stood up from her seat.


    "See you then," Grace beamed and clapped her hands joyfully. She was truly satisfied with their conversation.


    Sofia left the conference room and went straight to the councilors office. But to her disappointment, she was told that district Councilor Lucas Martinez was suddenly on leave. He was in the hospital handling some family emergency.


    "Young lady, you mentioned that there is some complaint that you want to discuss with Coun. Martinez? You may fill out this form for your complaints," the secretary handed her two pages of paper.


    Sofia looked at the paper and then to the eyes of the secretary with a blank expression. Then her line of vision moved to the nameplate of the employee which had her nickname scribbled as ''Miss Cathy''.


    She pushed the paper back to the secretary and said, "I have an area for improvement that I want to speak in relation to you, Miss Cathy."


    Sofia used the name of the secretary easily. The woman also stood straight. This was the first time that a visitor in their office used her complete name.


    Although she had been wearing a nameplate, all of the people that she had met before was only calling her ma''am.


    Hearing Sofia''s call made her felt a little bit uneasy.


    ''Areas for improvement? Damn! I did not commit any mistake. You just came in and I greeted you properly. Just what do you want me to improve? Do you want me to smile bigger?'' the secretary consequently made a quick rant in her head. But her face still looked calm in facing Sofia. No one could tell that she was already cursing in her mind.


    "Yes, what is it that you want to speak, young lady?" the secretary promptly spoke.


    "I must say that I am in no position to tell you this however, I think that this is necessary," Sofia started. It was important for her to establish that she was not bossing around with the employee. Instead, it was just her opinion.


    "Young lady, I am older than you and I have much experience with this line of work. But, you just feel free to speak what is in your mind and I will handle that with professionalism," the secretary responded with a humble tone.


    "I am not invalidating your experience in your job. But, I want to help so that you will develop as a high-level person in this field. Whether you will apply this or not, it''s up to you," Sofia said.


    The secretary nodded and felt slightly calmed. She thought that Sofia would speak to her with selfish and nonsense whining. She had met such types of people too many times.


    But after the young lady mentioned development, she could not help but look forward to what Sofia wanted to speak.


    "This appointment, I called yesterday to make sure that I will be able to talk with the district councilor---" Sofia said but she was interrupted with the secretary before she could finish her sentence.


    "If you are upset about this, I''m sorry! Like I said, there was an emergency that our district councilor needs to attend to. I hope you''ll understand that we cannot control or predict emergencies!" she reasoned.


    "Oh, no... I am not talking about the emergency. What I meant is for Miss Cathy to perhaps, inform me of these changes ahead of time? That way, I won''t come here only to find out that my appointment is no longer available. I could have used my time for my other errands," Sofia explained with a tone that was slightly disappointed.


    "Well, I wanted to do that really. But, how am I supposed to call you? You used the telephone. I don''t know your number!" the secretary continued to reason. She was willing to call Sofia to inform her about the changes. However, there was no means for her to communicate with the young lady.


    Sofia had already thought of such lapses. She was truly disappointed and wanted to address the matter professionally.


    "This is where my suggestion can be applied, Miss Cathy. Maybe, next time, you can list the appointments and include the contact information just in case there are changes of plans on your side," Sofia said sternly.


    "Ohhh..." the secretary could only open her mouth and became speechless for a few seconds. "That''s indeed a good suggestion," she added thoughtfully.

 Chapter 153 - Boss Wangs Exploits

    ''Was I too hard for that lady? Have I overdone and imposed my standards on Ms. Cathy?'' Sofia suddenly asked in her mind. She had already left the municipal hall and was heading to the bus stop.


    While she was walking in a yard surrounded by tall trees that provided enough shade. Such a thought somehow slipped into her awareness.  She suddenly halted her steps and stared blankly in space.


    In Sofia''s mind, the earlier scenes of her conversation and the secretary talking about her concern flashed back as if hunting her conscience.


    ''Ahh! I was too willful. I should mind my own business next,'' Sofia scolded herself. The wind started to howl and the branches of the trees danced in the air. Sofia tucked several strands of her hair to prevent it from covering her face.


    While Sofia stood in the yard, the secretary secretly looked at her from the big window just outside of their office.  She was not alone. The moment Sofia left, she called her colleague and wanted to tell her about an odd encounter.


    "This young lady possessed a different level of confidence," Miss Cathy spoke deeply.


    "What''s that supposed to mean, Cathy? This is the first time I heard you speak in this tone. You almost sounded like you adore this teenager?" her colleague asked curiously. The two of them had been co-workers in the office together. And she knew how defensive Miss Cathy was in terms of her job.


    "Yvonne, we have encountered too many complaints in my work. But, I have never enlightened from those piles of criticisms, at least, not until that young lady spoke her concerns," Miss Cathy stated.


    "Hah! What did you just say? Y-you are e-enlightened? That is such a big word for you to say. Did you overestimate your perceptions towards that teenager?" the colleague questioned in a tone that was full of disbelief.


    In the perspective of this colleague, her words seemed exaggerated. It was almost as if she was putting her faith in the young lady!


    "I am not overestimating her," Miss Cathy shook his head and continued to look at Sofia. By then, the young lady had started walking until she turned to the corner and was completely gone.


    "She was just a teenager. Do tell me, how did she make you feel enlightened?" the colleague probed after Miss Cathy became silent.


    "Hmmn, you know, the list of our appointments in our office contains the name of the visitors only. Well, since Councilor Martinez was on emergency leave to attend to some family matters, that young lady had come here to meet the councilor," Miss Cathy explained.


    "And?" her colleague asked in an impatient tone.


    "Well, she did fret about the cancellation of her appointment without prior notice. I told her that there was no way for me to contact her. She was not angry. Instead, she told me that it could have been avoided if I placed her contact details when she made the appointment," Miss Cathy summarized.


    "Ohhh," her colleague muttered as she also became speechless.


    "That! Hahaha, that is exactly my reaction after I listened to her concern. I mean, we just never bothered to ask for contact details. It''s up to our visitors if they will give any information or not. But now, I realized that I should initiate to get their contact details too!" Miss Cathy stated.


    "You are right..." the colleague nodded in agreement. Her expression suddenly reflected a deep conclusion that even she could not describe what was it.


    "There is also another matter that she spoke about after telling me this. She said that it was also significant for us to collect these details for the security of our officials here. In case there are crimes committed, we might be able to use the number... Although I don''t quite understand what she meant, I think she was still correct about this," Miss Cathy said.


    "I see. Then, I will edit all our visitor''s appointment log forms and then I''ll email you a copy," the colleague responded. Their old form was only the name of the visitor and the time and date. There was no more information apart from it.


    "Yes, you need to revise the forms. I think I am lucky that I experienced this with that young lady. Who knows what would happen if the incident occurred between me and some crazy and rich people. They might demand me to be fired!" Miss Cathy expressed.


    She had never felt so incompetent in her career. She thought that she was the most perfect secretary working in the municipal hall. Who would have thought that a young girl would be able to recognize her lapses right away?!


    "We are lucky indeed. I must thank you for sharing this matter with me. That young girl had prevented us to experience some disastrous encounter with other visitors," the colleague replied.


    "Now, let''s go back to work!" Miss Cathy said and stepped inside their office feeling contented. It was embarrassing to admit that the youth had corrected the errors in her work, but, she was more than happy to share her encounter with the young lady.


    Her colleague followed her and the two of them sat at their own table. She was ready to start with her tasks list when her colleague suddenly opened something that she had not realized...


    "Cathy, we all know that you are very defensive in fulfilling our duty. So, I am also curious as to why you are not angry at all? Did you just accepted the teen''s lessons with open arms?"


    Miss Cathy looked up in the ceiling and began to wonder too.


    How come she felt not offended by Sofia''s criticism that time?


    Such concern could be understood as an insult to her work performance. But, she did not felt even a little bit insult when Sofia lectured with her. Perhaps, her colleague was right... she just accepted the idea from Sofia with open arms!


    "Maybe it is because of her tone? She was criticizing and speaking to me about my area for improvement. Surprisingly, I could not feel that she was looking down at my performance at all!" Miss Cathy stated.


    While there two employees proceed to work, Sofia had also arrived at her next errand. She went to have a meeting with Boss Wang about the potential endorsement that they would have.


    "Sister Jing is not going to join with our meeting, Mr. Wang?" Sofia asked the man.


    "Jing Jing is completing some projects. Anyway, this is about your endorsement, so, it is fine if she is not here. Someone can assess you if you need to know more details about the brands," Boss Wang easily said and another female entered the room.


    "Ahh... but Mr. Wang, the contract that we have, I''m sure I''ve stipulated that no one can replace sister Jing. We will only finalize an agreement if she is here," Sofia firmly reminded the man.


    "Hehe, but Jing Jing is not available. Here is Yen and she is the same as Jing Jing. Yen is even better!" Boss Wang argued.


    "What is wrong with today? It''s almost like this day is made as a day of unavailable," Sofia softly muttered as she felt a slight irritation in her chest. First, it was her early appointment. Now, Jing Jing was also not free to join with them to finalize the brand deals.


    "It is important that sister Jing is here. Mr. Wang, this is my requirement that you have also agreed. If you''ll breach it, then, I have to bring business elsewhere," Sofia said with no hint of emotion on her face.


    Cold sweat suddenly broke on boss Wang''s forehead. She had deliberately sent Jing Jing away so that she could introduce his cousin to the Chronos squad leader.


    In this way, her cousin would be able to build a close relationship with Sofia and influence the mindset of the teenager in giving them service and profit instead of full partnership!


    "Aiayaa, that''s a very unreasonable requirement. This employee is actually the best that I have. SO, don''t look for Jing Jing today," boss Wang continued hoping that the young lady would give in to his arrangement.


    However, Sofia may not know of his evil plan of exploiting her for work, she was still suspicious of his adamant attitude. She could sense right away that the man was desperate of introducing the employee to her.


    "No offense to your best employee, but I will only confirm an agreement if it will be handled by sister Jing," Sofia said and glanced at the employee.


    "Why?" Boss Wang asked with a few lines appearing on the skin of his forehead. He did not expect that Sofia could be this firm of her requirement.


    "Sister Jing and I had already established a great connection. After the tournament, she even went with us to the victory party. Boss Wang, you cannot blame for such a requirement. I felt at ease if sister Jing will handle us," Sofia answered casually.

 Chapter 154 - Ms. Yen And The Finalized Agreement Between Sofia And Boss Wang

    Boss Wang took a cautious glance at his young cousin. His eyes conveyed a suggestive message of something that urged the woman to say a word: '' Come on, Yen, speak something and convince this young girl to agree!''


    This woman was not really a real employee of his company, not like Jing Jing. But after the fame of the Chronos squad, this boss understood the opportunity of he could control the teens. He would not also be the top press company in the district if he does not have any tricks on his sleeve. The man sly and his own method of tricking people to work for his profit to grow more.


    As the woman also noticed the meaningful glance of his cousin, her eyes conveyed something that seemed to agree. She then cleared her throat and said,


    "Ehem... young lady, I know that Miss Jing Jing may have been close to you. But it had just been a few days. It''s even less than a week that you work together with her. Why don''t you give me a  chance to represent our company? Let me handle your endorsements, okay?"


    The woman''s tone was very sleek and convincing that even Sofia was also taken aback.


    ''I have a feeling that this boss and employee had their hidden agenda. But, what could it be?'' Sofia thought as she gaze at the woman intently. She could not ignore her instinct


    "Ms. Yen, the endorsement and sponsorship require a great connection in the business world. Sister Jing did not mention her connection to me yet because we haven''t discussed this matter. But, since you are here, can you tell me about your connections?" Sofia asked the woman in a formal and solemn voice.


    If she was really the best employee of the company, her connections would be far vast than Jing Jing. Somehow, Sofia did not also want to miss the chance of getting a variety of options for her group.


    Boss Wang smiled widely upon hearing Sofia''s question. Since the young lady began to have a curiosity about the qualifications of his cousin, he was confident that they could make her agree to their terms.


    "As expected to a leader of a champion group. You really are knowledgeable about this craft! With the matter about my cous-- ehem, I mean, Miss Yen''s connection, she is the on top! She can help your group as long as you will listen to her," boss Wang said enthusiastically that he almost slipped and call the woman her cousin. He also made an emphasis on his last sentence to condition the mind of Sofia.


    It was a subtle way of telling Sofia that they had to listen to the woman. This would be effective if it would have been a different person that he was conversing with. Unfortunately for him, such a sentence pinned in Sofia''s mind like hot water splashed in the skin.


    Sofia''s eyes turned dark.


    ''Listen to her? Could it be that this man cannot control sister Jing so he gave me a spawn that he could manipulate to gain control with my squad''s activity?''


    Sofia knitted her brows and slightly brushed her hair. Now, she finally realized the possible agenda of the two people in front of her.


    "Mr. Wang, if I agree to replace sister Jing with Ms. Yen, I want to clarify in advance that the description of our partnership would not be an adviser or mentor. If she is willing to work with my squad, she has to facilitate all brands that we could link," she declared with a blank emotion on her face.


    In her past life, she had relied on Jing Jing''s recommendation for she was the secretary of her company and she was still young. But now, she already knew the things that they need to accomplish for them to be successful. How could she listen to a random person?


    Boss Wang''s face turned sour. He glanced at his cousin again.


    The woman also conveyed a message to him just by their eye contact.


    ''This young girl is not easy to control, cousin! But, rest assured, they will be dancing in the palm of your hands,'' the woman stated.


    "Hehehe, of course, that is the arrangement. Ms. Yen will facilitate everything for you," Boss Wang confidently answered after he understood the assurance that his cousin gave him.


    "Mr. Wang, you are so generous to even let your best employee work with my squad. Since that is the case, I cannot let this generosity pass. I agree to work with Ms. Yen, but the initial contract about our social media exposure and profit should still be handled with sister Jing. Is it possible?" Sofia finalized her decision. Now, it''s up to the man if he would agree to give her two of his employees!


    ''What a greedy girl! She still wants to have Jing Jing to work for her group!'' Boss Wang mentally exclaimed.


    This request was not what he had anticipated. Initially, he was very optimistic about his plan of introducing his cousin to Sofia. But now, he felt as if he had just been robbed by the young lady!


    "May I ask Miss Sofia the need to have Jing Jing? This might have some conflict of her work," the woman was the first to voice out her reaction. She could not also believe what Sofia had requested from them!


    "I will tell you... Honestly, I did not know the company that sister Jing worked for when I decided to get her to work with my group. It does not really matter to me. I was interested in sister Jing''s expertise. So, if she will stop working with us, might as well, that I will poach her?" Sofia boldly said.


    Poach Jing Jing! How could this girl act like someone that had a terrifying background! Boss Wang almost squealed and laugh.  Sofia did not even conceal her plan if the man won''t agree to her terms but, the man did not think that she was capable of doing it.


    "You want to steal my employee?" boss Wang stifled a laugh.


    "It''s just a backup plan. I won''t have any problem with having Ms. Yen on our side for our endorsements and brand sponsorship. But, I will keep sister Jing too," Sofia stated.


    "Little girl, you think too much of yourself. This is not how it works in this industry. Even if you are famous now, the fame will not last forever. You better learn not to be greedy and build a good friendship with me," boss Wang expressed with a hint of mockery in his voice.


    "Mr. Wang, what is your decision?" Sofia casually said. She did not pay attention to the man''s provocation. He could mock her in any way he want. His reaction won''t change her plans.


    Instead of taking the bait that the man placed for her, she urged him to come up with the decision for his company instead.


    This time, boss Wang looked at Sofia intensely. The initial mockery in his heart was gone and he could sense a far more superior authority around the teen that was sitting formally in front of him.


    Sofia''s tone had also changed. She sounded considerate when they started discussing the change of employee to handle with her group. But now, Sofia sounded like her words were final.


    Boss Wang exhaled loudly and scratched the back of his head. He then asked, "Do you really want these two employees?"


    "I only want sister Jing, Mr. Wang. But if it is convenient and best to have Ms. Yen, I will be glad to have her too!" Sofia answered.


    How could this demand be reasonable! Boss Wang felt very conflicted. When they handle famous people to work with them, they should be the ones who would call the shots. All arrangements would be made and approved by them.


    But now, the table had turned around. Boss Wang had sensed that at that point, he was no longer the one who was in control. This realization made him inwardly cry.


    "Okay, it seemed that we cannot convince you anymore... then, let''s have this arrangement for now. I will send you the contract with a different representative from my company. And she will contact you for the shooting and other photo sessions once there is a brand to be promoted," Boss Wang said.


    "Those lists of company brands that you have sent to me, I also sort some of them," Sofia said and handed the man a piece of paper.


    "Okay, I''ll tell the company and negotiate," Boss Wang nodded. His initial enthusiasm was suddenly lost. Now, he could only rely upon the skills of his cousin to talk some sense with Sofia once they work together.


    "Great, let''s adjourn this meeting. I will wait for the contract to be emailed as soon as possible," Sofia said, Then, she extended her hand to offer a handshake.


    Boss Wang hesitated to take her hand. Somehow, he felt completely helpless. The young lady even took the initiative to end their meeting!


    "Glad that we have reached this agreement!"  Boss Wang finally forced a small and fake smile before they exchanged a handshake.

 Chapter 155 - Reflections After Commuting: Another Business Plan!

    "Cousin, I--- I have no words to say! You did not tell me about such a stubborn kind of character! That teen is a lot to handle! You better give me a good share of your profit once I rope them in!" the woman called Yen partly spoke her opinion after Sofia left the vicinity of their company.


    "How can I mention such things when I am not even aware of it! This is the first time that I have personally met that teen. Only Jing Jing had contacted her before," boss Wang sighed once more.


    The two of them remained seated on the table even though the meeting had been finished for several minutes already. Both of them wore the same upset and confused expression.


    Boss Wang could not believe that he agreed with Sofia''s condition and let his two employees work with the Chronos squad. Meanwhile, his cousin, Yen, was baffled by the character of the young girl.


    Yen massaged her temple and exhaled loudly. "For a moment, it felt like I was conversing to a top expert company executive! Have you felt it?"


    "You felt that kind of energy from that young girl too? No wonder the contract that Jing Jing had before was drafted like that. It turned out that the squad leader of the group has a strong character!" boss Wang mentioned.


    Yen tilted her head and inquired, "The first contract between your company? Was that what you told me about the exclusive press for a teenage group?"


    "Yes. Jing Jing reported to me that there was no lawyer involved when she discuss the exclusive press contract. I also thought that it may just be a coincidence or that there was someone backing with a high status that was backing with the Chronos squad," Boss Wang replied.


    "That girl, she seemed to have experiences with dealing and negotiating with other people. How old is she?" Yen suddenly felt the need to ask Sofia''s age.


    "I did not pay attention to this group of teens. Just find out the information that you want to know when you start working with them. Make sure you will convince them to work for the brands that would give us high income," Boss Wang instructed. In his hand was the paper that Sofia handed to him. He finally look at its content and saw only one brand were listed by Sofia!


    "That''s their list? Didn''t you sent those companies last night? How come she already sort out her choices?" Yen simultaneously probed.


    "I did sent this list last night. That young girl is also prompt and decisive. Can you handle her and make her obey us?" boss Wang sought assurance from his cousin. There was a shadow of doubt on his heart that he was trying to ignore.


    "Of course I will handle them properly! Just wait and be at ease! Let me see the lists that they made?" Yen opened her palm to get the piece of paper from boss Wang.


    The man quickly handed the paper and sighed again. He felt like his energy was fully drained by just meeting briefly with Sofia. It could be the content of Sofia''s list or his overall interaction with the young lady.


    The woman scanned the content of the list with one of her brows arched upwards.


    "It''s only this local electronic shop? There are so many companies that had reached out to our company about their availability to endorse right?" Yen looked up and asked the man.


    "Yes, there are other five companies," boss Wang blandly said. He sounded exhausted for a reason that even he did not know.


    "Then, why would that young girl only pick a cheap electronic shop? I get that they are gamers... but she even picked the company with the lowest budget!" Yen mumbled as she clenched her fist tightly. The paper in her palm was automatically crumpled and torn.


    "It''s your job now, Yen... Just convince the teen to work and produce money for us," boss Wang shrugged and finally stood from his seat. He swiftly bent his waist left and right, the front and back, imitating a poor posture of hips exercise.


    "Okay! I do not agree with this list! Is this even a list?! That young girl obviously does not know what is best for them. I will pick the company that they will endorse!" Yen stated.


    "Okay, I''ll leave you to it. Good luck! I''ll head back to my office and draft the contract in this matter," boss Wang silently spoke and felt very dejected. His chest felt heavy for giving in to Sofia''s request.


    Yen nodded her head to acknowledge boss Wang''s words and also left the meeting room.


    On the side of Sofia, she was already in the rush for her lunch reservation at the Rosen Club. It happened that the bus was already full but still made a stop in front of her.


    Only when she was already inside the bus she found out that there was no vacant seat for her.


    After she transmigrated, she had never had any experience of riding a bus. She had managed to commute earlier. But now that she was expected to stand until she arrived at her destination, she could not help but groan.


    ''I will buy a service car after the acquisition of that building. I will ask sister Jing if she can arrange it for us,'' A plan came up in her mind. Even up until now, she had not yet fully considered getting a car for there was no regular parking area in her place and her current age. And the school was just a walking distance.


    Sofia anticipated that she would be struggling with the ordeal of standing while the bus was moving on the road. However, when the bus driver started the engine, she felt almost thrilled by the experience.


    After a while, the bus swayed as it took a left turn. Sofia''s grip on the horizontal iron bar tightened in fear that she would be knocked down...


    "Miss, you can have my seat," a gentleman offered.


    This man noticed Sofia''s hand holding firmly on the iron bar as if her life depends on it. He was sitting few rows away and was paying attention to his phone when Sofia get on the bus. But when the vehicle swayed, he also looked up and just took notice of her.


    "It''s fine. Thank you for your kindness, sir!" Sofia declined the offer slightly bowed at the gentleman.


    "No, you should sit!" the man insisted and moved towards her, leaving the seat empty. He thought that the lady was just shy but in reality, she was enjoying the ride!


    Seeing that the man had already left his seat, Sofia took a final glance at the road ahead of them before occupying the seat.


    By the time she sat, her business instinct kicked in. ''It seems that there is not much competition on the transportation market too. Maybe, we can also venture into public transportation.''


    What could have been a usual commute had actually given her an idea for the potential market in business! Sofia stared at the back of the gentleman who offered her a seat for a long time.


    Then, she took her phone and sent a chat message to Brent and her members that she was almost at the venue. All of them had also confirmed almost right away that they were on their way.


    She did not tell her members about her agreement with Grace. But she asked them if they knew about the mayor''s daughter. And they confirmed that they had recognized her.


    -


    The four members were sharing Clark''s car. So, when Sofia mentioned the mayor''s daughter, Claire could not help but voiced out her curiosity.


    "Why does Sofia asked us about the mayor''s daughter?"


    "Maybe it is related to the business. After all, we need a permit to operate," Clark made a guess.


    "Ahh, okay. Should we make friends with the mayor''s daughter so  that we can have the permit?" Joey questioned. His tone was too innocent that Clark stifled a laugh.


    "Bribery is against our law! We can get the permit for business operation even if we are not friends with the mayor''s daughter," Clark muttered,


    "Guys, I think Sofia may have met the mayor''s daughter? She told me that she had an appointment with the district councilor''s office. So, it might not be about the business," Stephen said but his tone was a bit distant.  He remembered what Sofia had said before they part ways earlier its that he did not think that she would meet Grace.


    "That''s also possible. I''ll just ask Sofia later,"  Claire nodded her head and continued scrolling on social media. Most of the feeds in her account also showed Sofia''s gameplay last night against the streamer.


    When Joey noticed what Claire was watching, he leaned closer and watch too.


    "It''s crazy that Sofia played this summoner mage. This character is considered dead," Joey expressed. He meant that no one was playing the summoner in the game.


    "Now that Sofia is playing that, who knows if she will use this character on the regional competition? Then, it would be a revival of the summoner!" Clark excitedly said.


    "That''s her plan. It was a replacement just in case her tank character will be ban!" Stephen confirmed.


    "Now, we should think of our backup character too," Joey quickly agreed.


    "Well, my marksman role is fine. I can choose either the gunner or archer. But, for you guys, it''s better to make arrangements too. Sofia said that after the update, we can finalize our strategy," Stephen stated.

 Chapter 156 - Starting Fresh For The Entire Fraternity

    The Western Alleyway, District 7


    12:05 PM


    In the place of the Double Sigma fraternity, walls along the road had several graffiti on them. This area had the lowest residential infrastructure and was mostly the location where homeless people settled with tents and make-shift houses.


    The sun was scorching and most of the residents in this place were still asleep.


    Despite this environment, there was one house that was built with bricks. It could be considered a decent place and was known as a frat house of Double Sigma. However, this house was illegally built.


    They had no legal right to the land. They just built their house and used violence over the owner so that they could develop a residential building.


    The  Double Sigma fraternity has two leaders. One was called Daniel or Danny.


    Nobody knew their real name but, Danny was the person that Sofia offered a bargain to work for her once the Chronos squad started to operate their business, while the other leader was his older brother.


    These two leaders had just woke up from their night escapade. Danny went to make trouble on the intersection street last night. While his brother, Derek, was also working as a part-time guard on a local bar.


    These men shared a small room with a double-deck bed. Derek was on the upper bed and Danny occupied the lower.


    "Bro, I''ve met an odd person last night in the intersection street," Danny started and sat up from his bed.


    "Ohh, is this person a chic? Is she hot, bro?" Derek asked.


    They were still usually sleeping all throughout the day and go with their errands at night.


    "No! It''s a young girl bro! Remember those frat fightings that we agreed to harass some business owners? Now, the establishment was close. But, this lady told me that she will purchase and build a business there. She offered to hire our group as her employee," Danny summarized.


    Derek who was still sleepy at that point bolted awake. He jumped out from the upper bed and stared at his brother for a long time.


    "I am not kidding bro. That girl, she is the squad leader of the champion group last online tournament," Danny stated.


    "The Chronos squad? You mean that CEO UNRIVALED?" Derek clarified.


    "Yes, bro! You know our situation is very troublesome. We have no job because we are out of school and all company requires academic qualifications. We can only do some shady negotiations to earn money. But now, that teen had offered us a work," Danny said.


    "Us? All of us?" Derek inquired, referring to all the members of their fraternity.


    This group really consists of members that had not finished their studies. Even if they want to apply for a job. nobody had hired them because they were out-of-school delinquents and dropped outs. Such an opportunity that Sofia offered to them was like a huge chunk of gold.


    "Yes! That girl said all of us can work for her. She sounded serious. And she also told me to stop making trouble on the place. What do you think?" Danny sought for his older brother''s opinion.


    "I think it''s great! I mean, if she is serious and would hire us all, I can get a decent job instead of nursing drunk customers in West Bar. We could start fresh," Derek beamed with excitement.


    Start fresh! These men were in their mid-twenties and wanted to take life from a serious perspective. However, because no job employers wanted to hire them, they end up making trouble in the district instead.


    "That''s also what I think. I mean, there were so many big bosses who secretly asked for our help to deal with their competitors. But none of them offered real work. They only saw us as their tool to get rid of the obstacles for their business to grow," Danny muttered.


    "Accept it. If she can hire all of us, let''s work for her and talk about the salary. Even I am not yet pain for my part-time job," Derek stated.


    "Okay. I will accept it and tell the members," Danny agreed.


    He then grabbed his mobile phone that was sitting under his pillow. With just a few scrolls on the social media account, she quickly searched Sofia''s profile.


    Derek also watched as the screen of the phone switched from one window to another.


    "This girl is so young! Is she really going to be our employer?" he muttered after the screen showed Sofia''s profile picture.


    "It''s kind of embarrassing?" Danny paused and looked up at his brother.


    "I just can''t remember what I did when I was her age. Maybe, I was exchanging punches to the classmates that annoyed me that time," Derek answered.


    "She is young but if you speak with her, you won''t think of her age. She carries a different aura that demands authority. This kind of aura can only be attained from someone who had vast experience in life." Danny spoke softly as he tried to recall all the events last night.


    "What is that video? Click that!" Derek suddenly chirped after his brother continued scrolling on Sofia''s post.


    "This is the game that they play," Danny said and then click the play button.


    "Oh, I see. They must have a huge amount of prize money that they wanted to open a business. What a wise girl! Others may spend the money on other fancy things," Derek stated as he started to watch the videos on the screen.


    "Prize money is not enough to buy the building and land. Maybe they also have rich parents that help them up?" Danny said.


    "If that girl will hire us. What is her plan? Does she want us to do construction works?" Derek inquired.


    "Maybe? Well, I will tell her first that we are accepting her offer," Danny mumbled and started to compose a message.


    "Yes. And tell her that she cannot back out. Just in case she will ask for our school records, at least, secure the employment what she offered," Derek guided.


    Danny''s thumbs swiftly moved as he started to type the message.


    Dan: I formally accept the job for all of my frat. And you cannot back out and change the offer.


    His message was brief but sounded off. But, this man did not really bother editing the words before sending his confirmation.


    "You have to talk formally! You did not even say hi to your future employer!"


    Derek corrected his brother.


    "Ohh... okay," Danny paused and composed another message...


    Dan: hi boss


    Seeing the second message that the younger brother sent, Derek helplessly made a facepalm. And the minute he briefly lamented of how improper the content of the message was, Sofia responded.


    CEO UNRIVALED: See the attachment in my next message and we can discuss the details later at 2 pm.


    "That''s quick!" Derek stated when he heard the ping notification for the arrival of the reply. He looked away and started to get busy if his own phone.


    "As expected to for a gamer like her! They really have fast hands in typing their reply. What attachment is ---" Danny was unable to finish his words when his dace displayed a complete surprise.


    When the man became silent, Derek furrowed his brow in question about his unusual reaction.


    "What made you look like you have seen a ghost?" Derek curiously asked and looked at his younger brother from head to toe.


    "It''s real. This is a draft of the contract between her squad and our fraternity! She is sending an employment contract to us! There is even a blank page to register our members!" Danny exclaimed in joy and showed his phone voluntarily to Derek.


    The content of their fraternity was placed as blank since Sofia did not know. But the initial headline of the document indicated the Chronos Squad Contract between the ___ Fraternity.


    "That is really real! Then when can we start? Asked her!" Derek ordered.


    Danny did not hesitate to compose another message and sent it right away.


    Dan: When can we start to work?


    CEO UNRIVALED: I''ll include this matter in our meeting. Just review the stipulations of the contract that I just sent. If you have reasonable adjustments or negotiations, do tell me so that I can revise.


    "I could never relate how she could do it! It was just less than a few seconds and she already replied!" Derek stated.


    "These game people really type fast. She is the squad leader of her team. So, if she tell instructions to her group, she had to type faster!" Danny made a guess.


    "Ah... you are right. Let''s read that contract and see its content," Derek urged his brother.


    The two men started reading the content of the contract that Sofia sent. Their expression became very serious as they turn from one page to another.


    "This contract is reasonable, We can earn the minimum wage of our district. This is already generous for not all bosses offered this type of salary," Danny spoke.

 Chapter 157 - Sofia Introduced Brent And Grace In A Non-Standard Way

    At the same time, Sofia and the rest of her team were happily eating their meals.


    "So, do you have plans for the regional tournament, guys?" Brent asked then while slowly chewing his food.


    "We are still focusing on other matters. But we will start our preparation for the game soon," Sofia answered.


    "Be sure that you will register, okay? I have to claim my loss on our last game!" Brent smirked.


    The four members of the Chronos squad looked at him with a surprised expression. How could this young master act so petty?


    "You want to claim your loss? Hehe, see you on the battlefield," Sofia casually replied.


    "I will definitely see you guys, and crushed all of you.! I will order the Lee Gaming squad to train harder!" Brent spoke with a determined tone.


    The man sounded arrogant however, Sofia could tell that he was just joking. Or perhaps, he was giving them a warning so their squad won''t slack off.


    "Ahh, I am so full now! Thank you so much for the free lunch!" Brent initiated.


    As the man rubbed his stomach, Sofia''s mind had been wondering where the hell was Grace? The noble lady was nowhere to be found and Brent was about to finish his food!


    "Is the young master of the Lee clan on a diet?" Sofia playfully asked just so she could buy time and let the man stay longer. But even so, she was also concerned for it was almost time that her members should go back to school.


    "I am not on a diet! But, you know, because of the business and busy schedule, I normally skip my lunch. It had been so long that I went out to eat," Brent admitted with a forced smile on his face.


    Sofia cast a sympathetic look on the man. She could also relate to the habit of skipping lunch just to prioritize their responsibilities in the company.


    "Even when you are not yet in the company, aren''t your eating schedule already messed up?" Sofia emphasized.


    "Haha! You got me there! Indeed! Sometimes, we just completely forget the time in our real world when we are immersed in playing games," Brent responded.


    Finally, a familiar figure stepped in the entrance door of the Rosen Club. Unlike the group that wore big eyeglasses to conceal their identity, Grace freely walked in without the need to hide her face. Everyone respected her highly... or at least, they showed politeness in front of her.


    All of the staff slightly offered a customary bow to the newcomer after they noticed who she was.


    "Good afternoon, Miss Grace!" one of the assigned servers hurriedly went to meet the figure. Grace scanned the area and returned a gentle smile to the staff.


    Sofia inwardly sighed in relief. She then pretended to look up as if she was not expecting to see the lady at all.


    "Oh, this young lady is the mayor''s daughter. I met her earlier and she is so friendly," Sofia enthusiastically said. She could award herself for making an improvised yet realistic statement.


    "Don''t be deceived by that calm demeanor! That''s just a facade!" Stephen reacted right away before he realized that he spoke his thoughts loudly.


    At the same time, Brent also expressed his opinion, "You have a poor judgment of real people! That lady is so fake! Look at her smile!"


    The two men looked at each other before they both shrugged and returned their attention to their meals. Somehow, they shared a similar opinion towards the lady. Did they know her on a personal scale?


    Upon hearing these two men reacted badly, Sofia forcefully drank her juice and felt a headache throbbing in her head. There is a lot of animosities to unpack there!


    She glanced at Grace and noticed that the lady was still having a conversation with the staff and had not yet moved her feet. But she was certain that the lady already saw their table.


    "What do you mean fake? I think this lady is friendly. Don''t judge her just because her parents are politicians! There are good politicians and there are also corrupt one. But their offsprings should not be blamed," Sofia argued right away.


    "Woaah, you are defending her? What are you? Her tank in real life?!" Brent started with a chuckle. He brought up Sofia''s role in the game just to make a point that she sounded defensive for a person who just met Grace.


    Stephen could not also help but smile upon hearing Brent''s remarks. HE could tell that Sofia was protective of the reputation of the lady. But he did not think too much of it. He assumed that Sofia would also do the same for her friends.


    "Tsk! Let me introduce her properly to you so your prejudice will be gone!" Sofia mumbled.


    "Oh no! I''m good. I don''t need an introduction to this kind of person. I have to stay away from politics or my business reputation would be compromised!" Brent quickly shook his head.


    "Too bad, you have no choice!" Sofia said and waved her hand to Grace. Now she could finish this quest of introducing the two.


    "What the heck, Sof! Put your hands down. I don''t want that lady here!" Brent ordered but his tone was not really commanding. It sounded as if he suddenly felt shy. Sofia did not also listened to his plea.


    Grace saw Sofia''s hand waving towards her, she waved back and her smile widened. She then sauntered towards the table.


    "Hi! Oh my, I did not expect to meet you here again! Join us, there is still plenty of seats available!" Sofia beamed. Her joyous tone almost scared Claire. She had never seen Sofia act like it except inside the game!


    "Hello! It''s nice to meet you again. Thanks for the invitation, I won''t decline it. It''s good to have more company when eating," Grace softly stated.


    "You are right! Come, these are my friends. Claire, Clark, Joey, Stephen, and Brent!" The introduction was brief and informal.


    But Sofia did not need to introduced Grace back to her friends or it would be an insult. It was known that this lady was popular in their district because of her family background. If she formally introduced her to the group, it would only mean that they don''t know her at all!


    "Hello, a pleasure to meet you, friends! Can I call them friends too?" Grace initiated.


    Sofia almost clapped her hand because of their progress. She cast a glance at Brent who forced a smile and looked at Grace. Then, Sofia shifted her vision to Stephen who surprisingly had a murderous aura.


    "Yes, they are great friends! Anyway, we still had school to attend... so, I hate to ask this, but, young master Brent, could you please accompany our new friend for lunch?" Sofia said. She did not wait for Brent to respond. "Thank you so much!" she added before giving her group an eye that they were leaving.


    Brent looked dumbfounded and felt abandoned. What the heck was happening? Before he could say a word, Sofia and her team already waved their hands and slightly bowed at them. Then the group left leaving him with Grace!


    There might be another way to leave the two but Sofia found it easier if she just act straightforward. ''Good luck, Grace!'' she gave a last glance of the two figures sitting on their table before stepping out of the Rosen Club.


    "You sure are energetic today!" Stephen commented the moment they reached the parking space.


    "Maybe, I am?" Sofia feigned ignorance. She realized that her current age was very convenient for her to act clueless at what had just happened. So, she continued to smile as she mentally made a celebration for finishing her hidden quest.


    "That lady is not friendly as you think. She is calculative and scheming. Be careful. She could play a game where she is not a player but a coach manipulating the players of her own game," Stephen whispered.


    He had a bad impression of Grace but Sofia did not.


    Still, Sofia nodded in agreement. She could tell that Grace had also a trick in her sleeves. If was not calculative, she would not be able to determine and approach Sofia at all.


    "You don''t have to worry about it," Sofia stated. She then opened her phone and check the messages.


    "I have spoken without a private press. Someone will handle our endorsements. Sister Jing will focus on our social media updates. As for the fraternity that we have seen last night, they agreed to work for us," Sofia told her members.


    "But, they could be dangerous, Sof!" Claire finally spoke.


    "Hmmn... Those frat members seemed reliable. And we can always remove them if they failed to do their responsibility," Sofia stated.


    "Okay... what are we going to do next, Sof? Uhhmm... you have been doing all the works!" Clark expressed his concern too. He slightly felt guilty for contributing nothing to this business venture that they were about to build.


    "Once the acquisition of the property is done, you need to help me redesign the building. So, you guys must make full research on interior designs for a hotel and caf¨¦..." Sofia trailed and think of other things that they had to do.

 Chapter 158 - Offering Jing Jing A Job

    "Sister Jing are you busy?" Sofia asked over the phone. She was left by herself once more while her members went back to their afternoon class.


    Sofia went to the side of the convenience store, just sitting on one of the public benches. She wanted to see the progress of their bank account so she could proceed to purchase the property on the intersection street.


    "I''m not busy. In fact, I have no job anymore! I don''t know why boss Wang fired me! But, I guess... he was offended about the matters involving the business investment that I told you before," Jing Jing blurted. No matter how she tried to conceal her angry tone, Sofia could tell that Jing Jing was already upset.


    "Y-you were fired? When did this happen? Why?" Sofia was completely taken aback by Jing Jing''s response.


    Didn''t she just confirm to have two employees on her side? Boss Wang did agree to allow Jing Jing to handle their social media while Ms. Yen would oversee their potential endorsements.


    Moreover, it was just this morning in their meeting before she went to the Rosen Club!


    "Ahh... that business  I told you about, the one that would make your investment money double after a month, I spoke to my colleagues about it. But when boss Wang knew, he fired me. He said that it was because of malicious accusations that I am spreading in the office," Jing Jing lamented.


    "Ohh... Sorry, sister Jing, I did not know that this would be the reason that you would lose your job. You can work with us. I will give you the same salary as your former rate," Sofia offered.


    She did not hesitate to make a proposal to Jing Jing. Anyway, she already told boss Wang that she would poach Jing Jing. The man just made it easy for them to avoid awkwardness.


    "You..." Jing Jing sighed loudly that even Sofia could feel the heavy atmosphere around despite their distance. In her mind, it was an indication that Jing Jing was reluctant to take her offer.


    "Sister Jing, my group is planning to buy a place but I need a bank account to finalize the sales. The last time we took a stroll around, I was looking for the most suitable location to develop a business. And I have seen one in the intersection street. You can be the manager once the business is open," Sofia quickly spoke while Jing Jing was in momentary silence.


    "I will think about it. I am not sure if I am ready to be a manager. My usual job is to interview people and kinds of stuff," Jing Jing mumbled softly.


    "Sister Jing, do not wait. Value your time and try things even if you feel you are not ready. I think that being ready is just a mindset. Or could it be that you are thinking that you are not qualified to manage a business?" Sofia spoke.


    Jing Jing froze in realization. Indeed, she doubted her qualifications. Thus, she had said that she was not yet ready for the position!


    ''How could this teen recognized what I truly think?'' Jing Jing mentally asked.


    "You know what, I have to be honest. Every time I have a conversation with you, I think that I am talking to someone who is more older than me," Jing Jing expressed subconsciously.


    "Ahh, don''t think too much about it. Maybe, I am influenced by the other older gamers that I met before. I did see them chatting in the public chats and exchanging their philosophies," Sofia quickly made up her excuse.


    "That''s interesting. You are a smart girl," Jing Jing casually complimented.


    "Thank you, sister Jing. So, don''t reject my offer. You are already close to us and I can see a full potential in you. Even if I am young, I know that you are a dedicated person. That''s what we need," Sofia said.


    "Hehe, alright! I will be your manager. But, even if boss Wang fired me, he still appointed his cousin to oversee your squad. So, you will be in good hands," Jing Jing stated. She did not seem really angry with her boss. It was more like, she was mad at the circumstance that she was dismissed.


    "Mmmn... Business is business. Our personal feelings must not mixed with it. We needed the connection of the private press for our future tournaments, sister Jing. So, if you have grievances of your boss, I would understand that," Sofia explained.


    Even if Jing Jing would no longer work on the press company, Sofia knew that it would be more beneficial for them if their contract stays as it was. She was not a fool to involve personal feelings and be carried over with it.


    "It''s okay. I won''t ask you to terminate the contract of my former company," Jing Jing answered right away.


    She completely grasped what Sofia was talking about. Perhaps, the teen was afraid that she might loathe her secretly for keeping the contract despite her leaving the company.


    "Okay, I felt at ease now! Then, how about the bank account? Should I ask Mr. Wang to handle it?" Sofia questioned.


    "The bank account, well, I can handle it today. Just give me an hour to consult the bank here. Then, I''ll meet you at around 2 pm?" Jing Jing suggested.


    "No, I have matters to do at 2 pm. I will be meeting the soon employees that we will need for our business. Can we meet at 4 pm?"  Sofia stated.


    "Oh, you hired employees for the business already? That''s quick! Very Impressive!" Jing Jing exclaimed and was fully shock at how much progress had the plan went on. Who would have known? Sofia made it look so easy to start a business!


    "We haven''t hired them. But, they already agreed to work. We will finalize the papers later," Sofia replied.


    "Alright, then, I''ll be off now. See you and take care!" Jing Jing stated. And before Sofia could respond, Jing Jing added, "Thank you for the new job!"


    This time, the tone of Jing Jing totally changed to a more lively one. Sofia could not help but also smile.


    "You''re welcome, sister Jing! Bye!" she chirped before ending their conversation.


    Sofia was about to put her phone inside the pocket of her jeans when another call was coming in had reflected in the screen. As she peered, the notification showed boss Wang''s contact information.


    Sofia could tell why the man was calling. It should be about Jing Jing''s termination of employment. She continued to put the phone on her pocket and then adjusted her sitting position.


    Subconsciously, she lifted her wrist to see the time but only then she realized that she did not have a watch.


    "Haha," Sofia softly laughed.


    Such a habit of checking the time every now and then was something that she would also do in her last life. The only difference was that her wrist would be wearing an exclusive diamond watch at that time. Now, even her cheap one had stopped working!


    While she was about to leave her seat, two middle-aged men who were sitting on the other bench, few feet away from where Sofia sat, walked up and approached her.


    "Young girl, we overheard your phone conversation, and sorry but we really listened to it. Are you still hiring with that business you mentioned while on the call? Can you also give us a job?" one of the men said without any introduction of their names.


    Sofia looked up and noticed that the men were dressed formally. But their was an air of desperation in their eyes that she had recognized.


    Although they were not wearing expensive suits, it was a pretty decent outfit based on the standards of their region.


    "Hello! My name is Sofia. Please have a seat," Sofia said formally  and gestured to the empty bench opposite to her.


    The two men exchanged a glance before they carefully sat.


    Sofia also looked at them in the eye to see if these men were sincere and not wasting her time.


    "How about I let you introduce yourselves first? I can''t hire people that I don''t know," Sofia easily said. Her hands clasped while she was waiting for the men to respond.


    With Sofia''s words, these men instantly gasped that they were being interviewed on the spot! Or at least, this was how it felt for them.


    Both of them suddenly felt tense. They had expected the young lady to just respond with a yes or no. Who would have thought that she would ask them to introduce themselves right away! They were not prepared!


    "Young girl, I just want to ask, the business is yours? It is not your mommy or daddy''s business?" the other man questioned. He suspected that Sofia''s parents may own the business.


    "The business is not yet in operation. But, once it is open, it will be under the Chronos squad," Sofia answered.


    "C-Chronos squad? I know them. But why would the business be under those gamers?" the first man to speak considered in confusion.


    It was too obvious that these two men had not yet recognized the identity of the young girl sitting opposite to them.

 Chapter 159 - Planning For Developing An App

    "Hmm, is there a problem if the business would be under the Chronos squad? Are you against it?" Sofia solemnly asked while carefully examining the expressions of the two men. She was trying to observe and notice a bit of skepticism from them.


    "No, no," one of the men waved his hand and shook his head simultaneously. "No problem at all!"


    Then, the two men became silent as recognitions started to flood their minds. Their mouth opened as they stared blankly at Sofia.


    "Little girl, you look familiar. Have we met before?" the men expressed at the same time. Finally they had noticed Sofia''s figure similar on the social media.


    "We haven''t formally met. And yes, if you saw about the news of the Chronos squad, I am the squad leader," Sofia introduced right away.


    "You really are the squad leader? Don''t you have a class?" a man inquired.


    "I have my lessons later," Sofia simply shrugged.


    "Sorry for not recognizing you right away! " the two spoke again at the same time. His views about the woman sitting in front of him greatly transformed in a serious


    "Hehe, the youth had really expanded their ability! Even at this young age, your squad already wanted to start a business!"


    "Hmm, there is no age boundary in business. Some can start early. Other starts at their retirement. Anyone can start their business, anytime," Sofia told the two,


    "Yes, of course!  What you said is true. Those who will start early would become wise for they will learn how to manage and start from a scratch... mostly trial and error." Franco agreed and expressed his opinion.


    "Then, we will introduce ourselves formally, our future boss!" the two men made the gesture of salute before they proceed to introduce themselves.


    Future boss! These two men were very assumptive and Sofia gazed at them with an approval look.


    Being assumptive has a bad and good side. This character could be seen as arrogant and overconfident in the eyes of others. But, in sales, this character is the backbone to upsell products.


    "Future boss, I am Franco. This is my best buddy, Riel. We were classmates during our school days," the man called Franco started.


    "What work are you looking? Do tell me about your expertise so I can think of which area should I place the two of you," Sofia asked them.


    "Future boss, we graduated in college and got the degree of IT. We do coding," Riel quickly answered


    "Then, you are experts in technology?" Sofia inquired.


    The two men shyly looked away.


    "Not too much to be called an expert but we know how to code," the two politely answered without meeting Sofia''s gaze. Somehow, they felt uncomfortable of her calling them experts.


    Sofia nodded at them in understanding. She knew that her description about them was indeed exaggerated for there were crazy expert in the field of IT. She then leaned forward and unclasped her hands.


    "If I request the two of you to make an app for the business, do you know how to develop a code and make an app?" Sofia curiously asked.


    "Yes, we can create a code for you!" Franco confirmed almost instantly.


    A small curve appeared on Sofia''s lips. It had not crossed in her mind yet, but after meeting the two, she realized that they must also cover the customers in the internet.


    "Okay! The two of you, Franco and Riel,  will be in the technology department. I will send you the idea of what app you should create. You can leave your contact in formation to me so I can communicate with you easily. As for the salary and formality, I''ll send the details once its finalized," Sofia finalized.


    "That''s it? You won''t ask other credentials that we have?" Franco questioned.


    "I am not requiring credentials. I am requiring credibility in their work. If I see the two of you slacking on the responsibilities, I won''t hesitate to replace you," Sofia declared.


    "Are you going to let us sign an NDA?" Riel inquired.


    "Naturally, that will be included in the contract that I will sent soon," Sofia answered. The NDA was an acronym which means a Non-Disclosure Agreement. It was essential for the technology development team to have this kind of agreement so that they won''t sell to the competitors the projects of thei company.


    Once an NDA would be signed by a party, everything that was stipulated in the agreement must remain confidential even if they would leave the company soon.


    "Okay, we will sign an NDA. But, this means you will be giving us the full idea of the app that we will be coding?" Franco mentioned.


    "No problem," Sofia casually replied. Even if these two men would not contribute their idea to create an app, it was fine. She believed that as long as they would follow her idea, the app would be great.


    The men did not dare question what kind of idea would Sofia gave them as basis of the app. They swiftly gave Sofia their contact details and waited for her to gave further instructions.


    "I''ll contact the two of you once my squad starts our business. If not this week, maybe, it would be next week. We need to sort out some papers first," Sofia told them before she left.


    She made sure to give them the target timeline for them to open as she knew that they had to get necessary permits from the government departments first before they could officially start.


    "We will wait for your ideas about the app," the two men beamed in joy.


    When Sofia said that she would just called them, they felt that it was a form of rejection. They had several experiences of going to a job interview only to be told that the company will just contact them.


    But after Sofia told them about the timeline of their opening, the men felt an assurance that she was really accepting them.


    _


    "Riel, the youth in this generation is too admirable! I could tell that the young lady was a goal-oriented and there is a determination on her eyes," Franco stated.


    "Did we have a job interview? Hahaha, I do felt the pressure of talking with a job interviewer once," Riel commented.


    Sofia left the two afterwards for it was almost time for her to meet her 2 PM appointment.


    It was then when Sofia turned her back and walked away did they felt the heavy burden in their chest disappear.


    "Do you think she can think of an idea about the app?" Franco asked his companion in a low tone.


    "It''s better to wait and see. Before, it is too easy to predict the young girls her age. But, she is the leader of the squad and managed to get the champion title. Maybe she did have an idea?" Riel answered broadly. It was her way of hinting that they cannot judge the young lady easily. It would be embarrassing if they do.


    "Since we already have a future job, it is time to go back to our flat. I''ll review some commands to create an app," Franco urged his friend.


    "Yes, I suddenly felt like I was being subjected to a half year of interrogation. That girl, even if she is still young, she had an intimidating aura," Riel expressed.


    She just had a conversation with the two men for less than 15 minutes, but these men felt like they had been subjected to a half to whole day cross-examination.


    "I agree," Franco nodded. The two figures soon walked side by side to get a cab.


    ~Double Sigma Territory


    Sofia was five minutes late in her appointment. The fraternity leaders made an arrangement earlier to meet at a modest western noddle restaurant within the territory of the fraternity.


    Sofia was not aware of territorial concerns among gangs and fraternity, but when she arrived and the place was completely empty, she frowned in confusion.


    ''Why is the place empty even if I am late now? '' she questioned and pulled out her phone from the pocket. She was about to type a message when suddenly, she felt a danger.


    She instinctively raised her elbow, a move that usually executed in the online game...


    Pak!


    The sound of her elbow and an old fashion magazine connecting into one another echoed the place. Sofia slightly winced in pain.


    "Oh my, I did not mean to hurt you. I was just trying to  take you by surprise!" a man with deep and rusty voice followed. As Sofia looked up, the face of Derek greeted her. She was the eldest brother of Danny.


    "I could charge you of an assault," Sofia coldly snapped.


    "I did not know that you will raise your elbow to block my attack. It was just a joke, please don''t take it seriously!" Derek explained.


    "Sofia, please forgive this brazen brother of mine. He just wants to see people get startled," Danny also emerged from the other side and plead to her.

 Chapter 160 - Allocating Positions

    "Violence is not a joking matter. Don''t use it as some sort of your entertainment," Sofia sternly eyed Derek. There was a tiny spark of anger in her eyes that the man noticed.


    "I-- I''m very sorry," Derek quickly apologized. He was accustomed to seeing anger every day. But the fury that he saw in Sofia''s expression had almost petrified him.


    Unlike the kind of anger when someone shows irritation openly, Sofia''s face turned blank and emotionless. It was something that only a few could possess.


    These two frat leaders bent their bodies and gave Sofia a genuine bow to show the sincerity of their apology. And by the time they looked up, Sofia had already regained her composure.


    "I know that you may be exposed to some violence and I don''t blame you. But, I hope we all can act professionally if you wish to work with me. Otherwise, I cannot tolerate slow-tempered people. Calmness and self-discipline are required in my business," Sofia announced softly. Her tone switched to the formality and seriousness of her words.


    "Yes, we will remember! We will not use violence as part of the entertainment. The two of us had already decided that the entire fraternity would start fresh by accepting the work that you have offered to us," Danny affirmed almost instantly. He knew that his older brother had really offended Sofia by his joke, but it would seem that the young lady was not petty and had moved on already.


    "Good. I sent the contract. Have you read the contents already?" Sofia asked. Although deep inside her, she was fully startled by Derek''s action, she still managed to look calm.


    "Yes, we have!" the two of them responded.


    Soon after, they settled on their seats and the owner of the noodle shop approached their table with a menu in his hand.


    This owner was already a grandpa and had unintentionally listened to Sofia while she was lecturing the two about violence. He could not help but gawk at the young lady with an appreciative look.


    After the three of them placed their orders, the waiter silently left to prepare their food. Then, the discussion of their work resumed.


    "My plan is to make that building a hostel. On the ground floor, there would be a dining area. On the second floor, it would be studio-type accommodation. The intersection street is perfect for travelers to choose to stop by and rest in the facility," Sofia explained every detail of her plans as well as what she had envisioned to happen once they would start operating.


    "That... I am not a business expert. But, I could tell that your plan sounds effective since most tourists and locals would pass by along the intersection street," Danny commented.


    "It will work out. I am telling you about the plan so that you can help me determine which work do you plan to take?" Sofia stated. Since she was not familiar with the entire fraternity, she could only let those people pick their position in their business.


    "I can be the cook for the dining," Derek presented.


    "Alright, a cook. What experiences do you have in this field? Can you cook a full course meal?" Sofia probed further.


    "Yes, I can. I have a recipe book when I was young. I can take charge of the kitchen," Derek answered.


    Sofia looked thoughtfully at him. "Cooking and taking charge of the dining is different. Can you manage to cook and also draft the entire budget of how much the meal could profit in a day?"


    Derek suddenly went in silence. He initially thought that it was easy to manage the kitchen than anywhere else. In his mind, he would only cook.


    But, when Sofia mentioned making a draft budget and report of their profits per meal, he suddenly felt embarrassed.


    "I only want to cook the meals. Hehe, I don''t really want to manage the kitchen," Derek admitted.


    "We are not good at Maths. So, we are not reliable in terms of budgeting," Danny added.


    "You are the leader of a fraternity. How come you are not familiar with budgeting?" Sofia questioned. She assumed that these two men must have their real-life experience of balancing expenditures.


    "Hehe, we don''t have many expenses, so we did not bother to do the math," Danny stated.


    Sofia glance at Derek then at his younger brother, Danny, as she tried to make considerations in her head.


    "I will let you cook then and will assign other people to make a financial report. Just pick three members of your fraternity to be in your cooking group," Sofia stated as she look at Derek.


    "T-three members, to help me?" the man questioned.


    "Can you do the cooking alone? Or maybe you are overestimating your ability. This job is not just plain cooking a specific meal for the diners. You will be cooking under pressure especially when there would be an influx of demands," Sofia asked stated.


    "You are right! Okay, I will take three members to join me " Derek answered and finally agreed with the arrangements after he realized that Sofia was right.


    "We can also take responsibility for the security. You can hire us as guards of the hostel," Danny offered but Sofia shook her head in disapproval.


    There is no need for a guard. I prefer to get older people to handle the matters that involved the security of the business,"


    Sofia boldly told them.


    "Alright, then, I could wait tables and serve food for the diners," Danny expressed as this was the only position that he could imagine himself in work.


    "That''s settled then. You will be the cook and you will be the waiter," Sofia gazed at them one after another. "Now, do you have members that can handle the matters about the accommodations? Perhaps, someone that can do housekeeping?" Sofia questioned.


    "If there is none, are you going to replace us with other applicants that are more qualified with the job?" Derek cautiously asked.


    "No, that''s not the reason why I am asking you about the matter. The reason is for me to allocate the possible works. If you don''t have a member to fill in this position, then, I''ll just have to hire others," Sofia answered.


    "Okay. Then, my members are really not best associated with housekeeping," Danny took the initiative to tell Sofia about.


    Sofia nodded. "It''s okay. The fact that you and your members could cover the dining is fine with me. For the salary, I am reasonable as long as I can see that there is an effort and produce result," Sofia stated.


    "Yes! We will not waste the opportunity that you have offered for us," Derek expressed. He was secretly praying that Sofia wont ask any educational attainment for the final questioning.


    Luckily for him, the young girl did not really brought up the matters about academic background.


    As their noodles were served by the grandpa, they became silent for a while and concentrated on eating. Sofia was observing the two and was slightly amazed on their table manners. These fraternity leaders seemed to have decent character based on their actions.


    "Is this it? Are we hired?" Derek asked after his noddle''s was finished and they were done eating.


    "I am not hiring you today to work right away. The business had not yet started and your payroll will only start once we start operating. So, its up to you if you want to be hired," Sofia expressed clearly to avoid any misunderstanding. It would be more convenient to emphasize this arrangement so that they won''t expect too much from her.


    "Hehehe, that is reasonable. Then, we will work for the position that you have mentioned. You won''t regret having us as your employees," Danny stated while his older brother nodded in agreement.


    Sofia smiled at the two. "Just one thing that I would also require. Please don''t use violence and do not quarrel with the customers. Can you give me the assurance that there would be no trouble in the dining?"


    "You can trust us. We will keep the business have a satisfied customers," Derek and Danny stated in unison.


    "Yes, that''s the spirit and enthusiasm. I will expect the two of you to have this behavior even in the most intolerable situation. Especially when a customer will provoke you, you must ignore them and just think of the profit that we will be earning. As long as the flow of profit is continuous, we will progress," Sofia spoke softly. She felt the need to repeat the importance of the behavior of her workers while on duty.


    "You can trust us on this matter. We will act accordingly," Derek responded at her.


    "Then, we are done with this meeting. Anyway, if you have troubles that you felt would affect in the business, please inform me right away so that I could make preparations," Sofia expressed. Employing a fraternity was indeed a dangerous matter for these men may have their personal conflicts with other group.


    Sofia had thought about this danger and was still willing to take the risks. She thought that the benefits of employing these group would weigh more than its danger. To employ them meant her squad had helped lessened the unemployed locals in their district. This was why she did not ask about academic qualifications to them. Her goal was to help the community to progress by giving them employment.

 Chapter 161 - Double Sigma Fraternity Discusions (1)

    Frat House of Double Sigma


    The two frat leaders casually strolled back on the alleyway with an imposing aura around them. The people on the side of the street who noticed their figures quickly looked away and did not dare to make eye contact.


    "Brother, we finally have a regular job. We can live a normal life," Danny spoke while looking straight ahead of the road. His tone carries a vibrance that sounded strange yet warm.


    With their ages, they had already outgrown the streetfights and constant disputes.


    "The normal life is not that easy. But, this is our starting point. We owe this to the young lady," Derek responded thoughtfully.


    "The dining place huh... We can manage this job right?" Danny asked.


    "We don''t need to manage it. As I observed that young girl, she seemed very hands-on with this business. Since she is opening a diner''s place then, she may have an idea about it. All we need to do is follow her lead," Derek stated.


    Danny''s steps halted and he slowly glanced at his older brother. For him to be able to hear such kind of words coming from a fellow leader was something that could only occur once in a blue moon.


    They were supposed to lead, but now, his older brother had declared them to follow someone else. Moreover, the person that they were talking about was younger than them!


    "Continue walking," Derek commanded when he noticed that his brother was in a full stop. "We have to tell this news to the members." he added.


    "Brother!" Danny called and sprinted forward. "Did you just say what I just heard? Am I dreaming? Brother, please be clear!" he questioned his older brother with a bewildered expression.


    "I know a good leader when I see one. That young lady, do you think someone of her age in this district could speak with such bearing like that? Even those arrogant gangs in their early twenties could not carry that air of authority she had. We will follow her, I have a feeling that she won''t abandon us. Even if we are not related to her by blood nor have a close friendship."


    Danny scratched his head with a strong force that the portion of his hair was messed up. "I don''t understand, bro!"


    "It is a work of fate that you met her. She had spoken about this business at you first, why did you agree with her? You could argue and forget what she said. But, you reported the matter to me."


    "Because its something important!" Danny replied.


    "How? The offer could just be a bluff by some random teen who wants to mess up with you. It could just be a prank. How did you know that her offer was real?" Derek asked to make his brother realized what he had just missed.


    "I was... Well, at that time, she sounded so genuine. No, I think, it''s her eyes... now that I remember it, she did not look away when she offered me the job," Danny stated as he remembered his first encounter with Sofia.


    "It''s her character. She had perhaps the strongest character among all people that I met. This made her words so hard to ignore. That is why you considered her offer as important," Derek announced.


    "Character... that sounds so profound," Danny muttered.


    "Look around and noticed that no one was peering at us. The people are avoiding our path. This is the effect of our character that we managed to build. They fear us. But kind of effect has limits. If we crossed paths to a more stronger opponent, they could trample us and the effect of our character to the people would be faded like dry leaves." Derek stated. He was aware of their limitations.


    Even though their group controlled the territory of the outskirts in District 7, the man knew that it may not be the same in the future. They were getting old and the new generation started to form their own groups. Someone was bound to challenge their authority and they may not be able to keep up with the new generation.


    Thus, he thinks that it was better if they had a stable job and build their own reputation without using fear. By then, the civilians would look at them with respect instead of avoiding them in fear.


    "Brother, if we have such kind of character, then, what do you think is the character of the young lady? I am not so keen on observing these kinds of things. But I know that you can evaluate people right away," Danny spoke softly.


    "Some characters are weak, others are dominant. But there is something in the middle ground between the weak and strong. And those who know how to stay in the middle are likely to be the calculative type and most self-disciplined. That Sofia, her character is balanced. I hit her accidentally, she was furious about my action. But the fury was quickly replaced with a formal and civil expression. You see, she did not ignore my action and point out her views about it. But she did not also bore grudges. The young lady just move forward and continued with our agreement." Derek thoroughly explained.


    "That is also true. If it was other employers, they may have canceled the job offer. But she actually took her time to lecture you and then proceed to talk about the job," Danny mentioned. "And bro, I find it strange that I apologized to her. I never apologized to anyone that you have hurt before. Maybe, I am worried that she would just back out," he added.


    "She is a good person to follow. Let''s not mind about her age. My gut feeling is telling me that this time, we are on the right path," Derek said.


    These two turned left and the street became more narrowed. They passed a block then went back to another wider street. It was a shortcut to their place and their frat house was already few steps away.


    "Boss, welcome back!"


    "How is it, boss? Is it good news?"


    Two of their members came out from the gate of their frat house and run towards them asking about their recent appointments with Sofia.


    Derek gave a thumbs up to confirm that it was a good news.


    "I almost screwed it up by pulling a prank to our employer. But it turned out that this person is worthy of our respect. Once the two of you meet her, and the rest of her squad, you must act politely and avoid violence at any cost," Derek told the two members.


    "Yes, boss! What is the job, and why is there a squad?" one of the members asked.


    "The boss announced earlier that the employers were gamers right?  So, their group is called squads. Hehe, Boss, are going to be hired as their bodyguards?" the other one also inquired.


    The four men entered their house and all members inside stood from their seats and offered a customary bow after seeing their leaders. They then formed a line and wait for any orders. The other two members who met up with them earlier went to join the group who formed a line.


    "Listen, everyone! Our brotherhood had always been sailing in troubled waters. Double Sigma Fraternity is constantly having conflicts. So, your leaders and founders made a decision to change this kind of living. Anyone who doesn''t like these changes will have the freedom to leave. We won''t blame you. But, hear me out first, for I will tell you a good opportunity," Derek started while Danny stood beside him.


    The members nodded their heads and silently waited for Derek to continue his speech.


    Danny scanned all the faces of their members and then spoke before his older brother could say a word. "We are in our prime age and I am hit with a hard realization that it is hard to find a job with no academic background. It made me regret my actions in the past. I wished I did not dropped school so that I can have a normal job. Do you have the same feelings with me?"


    "Yes, boss Danny! But we will follow this brotherhood and remain as a family with the Double Sigma. We won''t betray the hands that fed us when we have nowhere to go!" the members answered in chorus.


    "That''s good! Then, I will let my brother tell you about this opportunity that we managed to gain," Danny stated with full of satisfaction.


    "Brothers! We had a meeting with a potential employer and confirmed a job for all of us. It will be a hostel and the location is in the intersection street. Our employer assigned us to be in charge of the diner''s place. Can you handle the job?" Derek asked his members.


    "Yes, boss Derek! We only need the chance to have a job. Finding one is very hard for a dropout like us. But if we will be employed, we will take any job!" the members confirmed right away.

 Chapter 162 - Double Sigma Fraternity Discussions (2)

    "Our brotherhood will remain, but, this time we, the double sigma fraternity, will obey our employer named Sofia. I know this is a name of a lady. She is also young but, I require every member in our brotherhood to not be fooled by this youth for her capability is beyond her age," Danny spoke after his older brother made the necessary announcements.


    The members remained standing despite the official meeting was already done. Somehow, they were interested to listen more about their new job.


    "Boss, how much is the salary?" one of the members suddenly asked.


    "The salary is reasonable for all of us. Get a pen and paper and list all the names who want to be employed and join us. This time, our battle will be in the kitchen and our goal is to satisfy the customers of our employers," Derek ordered.


    "Boss Derek, I am Gin, please give us instructions of what we will do. Not all of us is familiar with the kitchen chores. To be honest, I can''t cook!" one of the younger members of their fraternity raised his hand and expressed his concern.


    "That''s right! Naturally, I know that not all of you in this brotherhood can cook," Derek swift his vision to all members. Some guys were grinning at him sheepishly that confirmed his speculations. Most of the members had been in their group for more than five years, hence, he knew all their capabilities.


    "I only need three assistants in the kitchen works. Danny will facilitate the other tasks in the dining area. Then, other members can be the waiters and cleaners. Write your names and place what skills do you have next to it," Derek answered.


    "So boss, how about our legal documents to go for work? Aren''t businesses requires their workers to provide documentation? I ran away from home and all my papers are not with me," another member voiced out.


    All other members looked at him before their eyes went back to their leaders. It was indeed an important matter that they need to discuss for most of them had already left their homes and vowed never to return. Some had family conflicts other were really expelled by their parents. Now, they lacked such kinds of documents for them to get a proper job.


    "If we don''t provide documentation then that means we are not regular employees?" the person at the back also asked.


    Despite the violent nature and environment that they stayed in, these members also recognized that it was crucial to provide documentation so that they can obtain a regular job.


    Derek raised his hand as the commotion started to arise in front of him. "Hehe, you guys also know these qualifications!"


    The silence quickly returned and the members waited for their boss to speak to them about the work.


    "This matter about our legal papers, our future boss did not ask for it. Her requirement is simple. It is to avoid making trouble in the intersection street and in return, she will employ us. This is her decision which is also an advantage to us. So, we can start from working, and then let''s figure out what would be our next step," Danny stated.


    "Ohh... boss, then, I will join! I want to have stable employment!" the members expressed their interest one after another.


    After some time, every member that looked serious had suddenly curled their lips into a smile. They quickly made a list of their names and skills.


    June - cleaner


    Willy - can cook


    Carlos- waiter


    .


    .


    Soon after the list continues until the paper became full. In total, their fraternity had 19 members willing to join this recruitment.


    Derek stared at the messy handwriting of his member''s names and their skills. He then took a picture of the list and sent the photo to Sofia.


    In just a matter of seconds, he received a prompt response from her.


    "Acknowledged."


    Danny took a glance at the response and stared at it for a long time.


    "That''s a fast reply!" Derek exclaimed.


    "They said that these gamers can really type their reply even if they close their eyes!" Danny stated.


    "Is that so? Then, it''s really an impressive skill they have!" Derek mumbled.


    "She is really an employer. Her reply is even like the other boss that we met in the past," Danny commented while his eyes were still on the message from Sofia.


    "Yeah, such a response that is brief yet on point. It is very normal for them to give this kind of reply. We will not regret this decision," Derek stated before putting his phone away.


    "But, I also wonder, can they really sustain 21 employees? No, this is just our group for the dining part, right? There is also the housekeeping that she mentioned. She will start a business with this big numbers of the employee, how could they manage to produce a salary? Will the business really become popular?" Danny mumbled.


    Sofia''s offer was extremely strange. He had never known someone who was too crazy to employ even though the business had not yet started.


    "She is that confident about her plans. I''ve seen this kind of business strategy in few employers too. I think I understand the goal of getting a huge number of employees," Derek said.


    After their discussions with the fraternity members, the two of them went straight to their shared room and now settled with a cigarette in their hands.


    "What is the goal that she wants to achieve, bro?" Danny asked as he blew the smoke on the window.


    "They might divide their manpower soon. Perhaps, this is not the only business that they plan to build. I guess they plan to create a chain of business. Have you noticed one of the clauses in our contract? It says that the employee must be willing to be transferred to another branch or line of business," Derek pointed out.


    "Our district is not really a business capital. Only a few locations have a centralized market here. Do you think they plan to build other businesses in the areas with no competitions too?" Danny could not help but continued to venture his curiosity about the plans of their future boss. Although he does not have a lot of knowledge about the corporate world, it seemed that he had a few ideas about how they operate.


    "Compete and expand. This is an aggressive strategy to increase the source of profit. The many the business, the higher the potential it will generate. Just like us, the many our members in the group, the stronger we become," Derek answered.


    "Oh... Increase the source of profit? I have never seen someone so eager to increase profit without even starting yet! Most business owners would speculate the progress of their first business before they plan for expansion!" Danny spoke.


    The smoke from their cigarettes had filled their room even though the small window was already opened. Even though they were not the one who was starting the business, they still felt anxious by it.


    "Maybe she is purely na?ve? or purely expert? But for her to do this, she must have sufficient capital... I wonder how she would get the number of funds needed? But who knows? Her parents may be helping her in the business too! She sure has such a lucky life," Derek said as he discard the cigarette butt on their cheap ashtray.


    "That should be it. Bro, I think that it''s better to inform our future boss about our lack of papers for formality. Just in case she would really require us to submit, then, we will be in trouble!" Danny suggested.


    "I''ve already sent a chat earlier about the lack of legal documents. She said that we can figure it out later since the business is not yet operating," Derek slightly laughed as he remembered something else. Then he continued, "She told me that if other members have no documents, we can provide the proof of birth certificate. Then I also mentioned the lack of clearance from the authority. I''m sure that there was no way the bureau would release clearance for all of us. We have caused so much trouble in this district. Ehem... Well, she said that this matter is only required by companies to avoid employing fugitives, not rascals!"


    "Rascals? She called us rascals! Isn''t it the same? This young lady is surely interesting, I remembered being called this name by our grandpa," Danny spoke with a nostalgic expression on his face. The ash on the tip of his cigarette started to dissolve and dropped on the floor.


    "I think she meant we are not criminals only troublemakers. Anyway, she may not want to complicate things for us. I felt like she is helping us in this form of offer. She is considerate," Derek stated.


    "Bro, why would she help us? We are not related to her at all!" Danny argued.


    "People in her caliber can identify problems that are neglected within the society. Unemployment. Look at us, we are grown men with no idea what to do other than to fight. Who knows? Maybe she thought that our path is to go to jail. So, she was helping us by giving us a decent job," Derek replied as he made a wild guess of the real reason why Sofia had offered them the job.


    Their unemployment was not because of their government but because of their negligence to gain credentials and be qualified to pass the criteria of being an employee in their district.


    It was the consequence of their past actions. Even if the there are so many job vacancy, they can''t apply for it.


    Such a circumstance was really problematic but it was caused by no one but poor decision making in the past. And the society could only blame them too about it.

 Chapter 163 - Stephen And Sofias Sweet Moments In Library

    "The banks require several documents to open your account. If you trust me, I can open an account first and let you borrow it. Once the squad gets sufficient documents, I will transfer the money to you," Jing Jing proposed over the phone. She was standing outside the lavish blue building of the Blue Bank in district 6.


    There was no available bank in their district. But, the nearest branch location of the Blue Bank was just near the boundary between District 7 and District 6.


    "Okay, sister Jing. Sorry for the trouble. I am not so aware of banking rules. Please do, what you must do," Sofia answered. She knew about the documents yet, it had slipped in her mind that the business is not yet in operation and they are still teens. The bank would be reluctant to allow them to have an account.


    "Then, I''ll go inside the Blue Bank now before they would impose a cut-off. I''ll tell you the progress," Jing Jing stated. It was already almost time that the bank would close and usually, this establishment would no longer accept transactions 20 minutes before the business hours of their office.


    "Thank you, sister Jing. So sorry to trouble you," Sofia said before their call ended.


    She was already in the library of their school, sitting near the entrace. But instead of reading a book, she was drawing few vertical lines to create a column on the back page of her notebook.


    She then wrote for each column the labels: "Employee" "Salary" "Contract Status"


    One by one, she wrote the names that were in the photo, the list that Derek sent to her in the chat message.


    Sofia was immersed in writing the details until she occupied another page of her notebook. She sometimes changed her sitting position whenever she felt her neck numb.


    It could be seen that she was creating a manual record for their employees.


    After a while, she flipped on the other page and wrote a to-do list. Her pace in writing the information was not slow nor fast. But, she was too oblivious of her surrounding.


    Stephen suddenly appeared behind her and place a cup of coffee on her table. He then pulled a chair near her and took a seat.


    "Class is done?" Sofia casually asked without looking at him. Her fingers continued to scribble, filling in the page with all her wholesome penmanship.


    "Yes, it''s done. What is this to-do list for?" Stephen asked as he secretly took a peek at what Sofia was writing.


    "It''s our tasks... we have to at least change few things in the building once we acquire it," Sofia answered.


    "Why are you writing that manually? You can just type them easily,"


    Stephen suggested. He was baffled as to why Sofia would take her time to write when there was an easy way to do it. She could just send the to-do list in their message instead of placing them in the paper!


    "Writing calms me," Sofia answered and was still unbothered by Stephen.


    "Huh? That''s weird," Stephen commented. He had never heard someone talked about writing in this manner.


    Sofia finally placed her pen on the table and looked straight at his face. She smiled at him before taking a sip of the coffee that he placed on the table. It was obviously for her.


    "My brain can focus more on the details when I am writing them rather than typing. Try it, when you study and write the points that you want to remember, you''ll easily retain the information this way," Sofia said and placed back the coffee. "No more coffee for me this week, starting tomorrow," she added.


    "Ohh, right. I''ll be sure to remember that. Anyway, how''s all your errands?" Stephen inquired.


    "It''s great. Oh, let me ask someone about their errand too," Sofia fished out her phone and type a message for Grace. She then sent her a brief question: "Did you reached into an agreement?"


    Stephen furrowed his brows, "What deal? This Grace, is she the mayor''s daughter?" he consequently asked with a blank tone on his voice.


    "Yes, she is. You''re so hostile with your arranged fiance," Sofia commented.


    Stephen suddenly froze and stared at her for a long time. It never occurred to him that Sofia was aware of the reason why he was hostile towards Grace.


    "What nonsense! I never agreed to be a fiance of anyone else, unless, you want to be my fiance now? Hehe," he cheekily stated.


    Sofia slightly laughed. "What a poor proposal is that?" she playfully said.


    "Alright, alright, I''ll make a grand proposal when the time is right. But, how did you know about that wicked lady?" Stephen curiously asked.


    "Oh, well... Let''s just say that not every girl has fallen in your charms!" Sofia vaguely replied.


    "I only need to charm one girl," Stephen gently smiled and gave her a wink.


    "Yeah, yeah, I think you are charming enough," Sofia slightly waved her hand before picking the pen and writing back.


    If she had just taken a glance at Stephen''s face, she would surely notice the undisguised warmth and blush on it. However, because she already concentrates back on writing, she had missed this expression.


    "Hehe, then, I''m at ease. I remember that you owe me an answer last time. Are you accepting me as your boyfriend, now?" he boldly asked.


    "Ohh? I do remember that it''s not the same question," Sofia refuted. This time she could feel the hotness of her cheek and the back of her ears.


    "I could revise the question then?" Stephen asked as he leaned closer to the table and his hand supported his face.


    "Let''s wait for Grace to respond to my message first," Sofia replied.


    "Oh, don''t trust that girl. She is manipulative. This kind of girl is not up for good," Stephen sat back and sighed.


    "I could also manipulate you. Be careful," Sofia joked. But with her knowledge and ability, this statement was actually not possible.


    "Oh please, feel free. I''ll give you all the consent. What do you want me to do?" Stephen did not back down. "As long as it is you," he emphasized.


    "I''ll remember that. Anyway, Grace likes Brent, not you. Don''t be hostile towards her," Sofia softly reprimanded him.


    A wide grin appeared on Stephen''s face as he crossed his arms on his chest.


    "Oh? This is new! The last time I heard, she was willing to wait for me on a dinner date. Now, she wants the young master of the Lee Clan. Hehe, I am not surprised. I hope that your friend won''t fall for her trap," he muttered with a skeptical tone.


    "I think her feelings are genuine. Don''t judge her," Sofia defended before finishing her writing. She then place the notebook inside her bag, then looked at her phone.


    "Hehe, If they become a couple, then, my old man would not complain about me. This is also a piece of good news," Stephen beamed.


    Sofia shook her head helplessly. She remembered how hostile Stephen''s father was during their last meeting. She could not help but sigh at their animosity.


    "You want a romantic relationship with me? Your father seemed to not approve that," Sofia stated. For her, it was better to confront this type of issue so that they could talk about it. Lest any misunderstanding would come between them.


    "Ohh? Are you afraid? From what I could tell since we met, you have this aura that tells everyone that you do not need any approval?" Stephen smiled. It was true that he and been observing how Sofia handles things on her own. And every time this lady spoke, her tone sounded firm.


    "You have good observation skills. But, I still need approval for the things that I am not familiar with. I am not reckless, you know," Sofia emphasized.


    She could decide right away using her wise judgment. But, she was also aware that she was not an expert on everything in life. There are limitations to her wisdom.


    "That''s why I am super attractive to you. Hehe, Are you ready to agree and be my girlfriend? We should be the first to become a couple before Clark and Claire," Stephen suggested.


    "Huh? Why? Is there a competition?" Sofia sighed


    "No competition of course! But, hehe, ehem! What if other girls will steal me? I''m still an attractive fella after all," Stephen smirked while his face beamed with full of confidence.


    "Oh? Did you know, what''s mine, no one dares to steal," Sofia curled her lips and copied Stephen''s smirk. It was also true. In her past life, no one had the guts to even compete with her in terms of business for any competitor were doomed to lose.


    The two stared for a while in silence, then, they burst into soft giggles... trying to suppress their laughter.


    They had no idea how they had reached this level of comfort in speaking such flirty rebuttals. Yet, all they were certain was that they were sharing a moment that would be worthy to cherish.

 Chapter 164 - Being Ahead Without Getting Started

    ''It''s fun to revert to a more youthful state. Unexpectedly, this exchange of witty words somehow felt delightful. Perhaps, the heavens may have given me another chance to experience this sort of joy,'' Sofia mentally noted after sharing an easy smile and giggles with Stephen. With her last life focused on academics and business seminars and training, it was rather a dull yet, far more satisfactory life. On the other hand, she thought that in this new life, she had finally gotten the chance to appreciate the normal life of a teen.


    Another thought suddenly crossed Sofia''s mind. ''If it was me in my last life, let alone having the kind of conversation, I would never allow myself to engage in small talk. In my last life, it just felt that it was a waste of time and complete nonsense. But with my present state, I finally realized how wrong was I.''


    However, Sofia was not to be blamed of this past mindset of her too. Since the environment where she had once grown was full of rivalry, it had influenced her greatly. And in the past, she valued too much extreme competition.


    In a way, it was not the same as her present life. Although she also indulged in competition now, it was only in the game. Her desire to compete was only limited in the virtual world.


    As for the real world, Sofia was fully confident that with all her skills and knowledge, there was no need for her to compete. She will just do all her plans.


    Ironically, it was also true that she was already ahead of everyone else even though she had not yet started.


    The two sighed and settle down when the response of Grace lit up on Sofia''s mobile phone.


    The response was also one word. But it carried a lot of emotion on it. "Yes!"


    Sofia softly laughed again while Stephen leaned closer to her. Then, the man whispered his confusion, "What does it mean? That Brent had actually fallen into her palms?"


    Stephen''s expression resembled that of full disbelief. Even though it was to his advantage if Brent and Grace would tie in a relationship, he still felt a little bit for the man. He remembered Brent''s reaction during their lunch when he met Grace, thus, Stephen did not fully expect the man to agree.


    "I don''t really think that lady Grace is that bad. Brent''s father won''t also allow him to be the leader of their Lee Clan if he is still a naive boy. So, yeah, given the benefits of your doubts, Brent is not vulnerable if in case Grace would try to manipulate him," Sofia held on to her belief.


    "That is also reasonable. With his position in their family, Brent surely is a wise man. Perhaps, he will manipulate her," Stephen chuckled.


    "Why is your mind so malicious? Can''t they be a couple with the pure intention of being companions till old? Brent is not manipulative," Sofia argued.


    Stephen shrugged. "You are too optimistic about that them. How about us? Are you optimistic?"


    Hearing this question, Sofia''s eyes slightly widened. It could be seen as though, Stephen had really been very straightforward of his feelings.


    "Are you?" Sofia returned the question with a sharp smile on her face. She had met so many people in her last life that she could easily deal with this kind of direct confrontation.


    Stephen stared at her eyes for a long time. "I''d be frank, Sof. You are truly interesting! Most girls would blush and felt shy. But could talk to me like an expert. If you don''t mind me asking, have you been in a relationship before? Do you have exes?"


    It suddenly occurred to Stephen that Sofia''s way of responding to his advances was too strange. It felt as though, she was on the lead no even if he was the one who took the step to advance! He could sense that there was a gap in their level of eloquence!


    "Exes?" Sofia tilted her head and was in deep thought. She tried to scan all the memories of the original Sofia to see if there was.


    "I''m just wondering if you have ex-boyfriends?" Stephen emphasized after seeing that Sofia seemed confused about his question.


    "Ohh... I don''t plan to have an ex. So, if you are serious about your feelings towards me, you better think of it as many times as possible. There is no turning back," she finally found the right statement to respond to Stephen. She did not just tell him that there was no ex. She also included a warning for him to ponder about how serious his feelings were.


    "Oh, I''ll carve them in my mind. I''ll definitely not be your ex. Anyway, aren''t you going to ask me about my past relationships?" Stephen muttered. He took the initiative to let Sofia asked this matter too for it to be fair.


    But to his disappointment, Sofia''s expression did not change apart from the amusement that flickered briefly in her eyes.


    "I could tell that you have the charisma of a playboy, Steph. But, I don''t think if you have the heart to play a girl. In any case, let me give you a good scolding, on behalf of the ladies that shed tears for you... Feelings are precious and fragile. You must not play with it," Sofia responded.


    "Ah, I''m just making it fair to both of us. I won''t play your feelings, Sof." Stephen spoke and paused for a few seconds before he continued, "Since I asked you about this subject, I will also tell you my exes. I do have two relationships that ended badly. One is during my freshman year. The second is when I was in sophomore. All of them just used me for my money. So, I was traumatized. Then, I met you."


    "What about me? Could it be love at first sight?" Sofia playfully asked, teasing Stephen. But she doubted about it too. In terms of appearance, there was no striking and remarkable about her.


    "It could be. I''m not sure if you are aware, but, the way you talk is so refined, it''s flawless," Stephen complimented.


    "Thank you! That''s so nice to hear, Steph," Sofia responded.


    "You''re welcome! Hehe, I''m not yet done. So, after I noticed your composed bearing, you also spoke about the plans of engaging in the commercial world. I like it that you are decisive. You have all the attitude that I want for my girl. But now, I also realized that it''s actually hard to deal with for it felt like you are few steps ahead of me. And no matter how I advance, I am still behind you," Stephen expressed what she truly felt. As a man, it was not flattering to be able to feel that way. But, he felt the need to release these feelings, and the most suitable person to hear him complaining should be the main reason why he felt that way in the first place.


    "Hahaha, don''t be too hard on yourself. It is difficult to know a person in just a year. It''s better not to rush things that involve our feelings," Sofia stated.


    "Yeah, I agree. In my opinion, I think that you are the one for me, Sof. So, I am very optimistic of the idea of us," Stephen admitted.


    Sofia smiled but did not speak anymore.


    Out of the corner where the front desk was located, the librarian could not help but notice the unusual interaction of two students. This librarian was already in her mid-thirties but her natural beauty seemed to be still in her late twenties.


    But despite having a good face, she was feared by almost every student in the school. She had been implementing reasonable but strict discipline on students who do not follow the rules inside the library.


    The moment the librarian stood from her seat, students could feel a cold aura looming in the library. Their skin shivered and they did not dare look in the direction, they stared only to the page of their book while trying to sense if the source of this coldness was approaching their tables.


    Only Sofia and Stephen snapped their heads and saw that the librarian was completely glaring at them.


    "This time, we might get banished in this library forever! I did not realize that we are so noisy! It says that anyone who breaks the rules would be thrown out instantly!" Sofia said and secretly hinted to look in the direction of the wall.


    When Stephen followed the line of sight, he did saw the sign that Sofia was telling.


    Since there were only a few students inside the library and most of them buried their faces in the book. Only a pair had made ruffled laughter near the entrance door. They could not blame this strict librarian to spot them easily too.


    The librarian stood from her seat and finally sprinted towards them.


    "Students, please avoid distracting your fellow learners within the vicinity. They are studying. This is not the place where you indulge in chitchats!" the librarian ordered and did not wait for the two of them to speak. She just turned around and walked back to her desk.

 Chapter 165 - Sofias Concerns

    Upon hearing the retreating sound from the high heels of the librarian, the students they started to carefully take a peek.  They were just pretending to be immersed in their book to avoid getting in trouble.


    They first glance at the table where Sofia and Stephen were occupying before their line of vision went straight to the front desk where the librarian was about to take her seat.


    After a while of observation, some students who happened to share a table with a friend started to whisper from their seats.


    "Isn''t that Stephen?" the female who had full bangs covered in her face and long shiny hair inquired. Spotting Stephen was easy for the man was popular across all year levels.


    The friend looked up and adjusted the eyeglasses in her face. Then she nodded her head, "That''s the Chronos squad members Sofia and Stephen. They are actually in a relationship?"


    This question was just an assumption but judging by how close Stephen was while looking at Sofia''s phone, they could tell that these two were really familiar with each other.


    "Hmmn, Oh, that''s actually that squad leader, Sofia? How about we go and let''s ask their picture?" the girl with full bangs eagerly suggested.


    Since the Cronos squad had really gained fame on social media platforms, even though they were in the same school other students still felt that the Chronos squad had an air of celebrity around them.


    "Ehh, let''s not disturb those two. Look at them, they are so sweet," her friend quickly replied.


    "Ah! But, I am one of their fans! I could flex it to the others if I get a picture of them," the girl with full bangs insisted.


    "Then what? Other students would also approach and ask for pictures... it is an inconvenience for them. Just ask for a picture if they are in official tournaments. They are still students like us and they need to concentrate on their studies too," her friend thoughtfully reminded her.


    "Oh, that makes sense. By the way, our librarian is not in bad mood today. I heard that yesterday, there were a group of sophomores who were thrown out and banned to use the library for a week?" the female student asked while slightly tapped her bangs and gathered all her hair to the right side of her shoulder.


    "That''s true! I was here yesterday when that happened! Our librarian really transformed into a dragon! Haha... But, it was because those sophomores were playing online games and had yelled some profanities loudly. They truly offended everyone here that time!" the girl said as her attention started to return to the book that she was reading.


    "So, compared to my idols, it was actually worse? Who are those Sophomores? Is your boyfriend one of them?" the girl with full bangs asked in a teasing tone.


    "No way! My boyfriend does not know how to trash talk!" her friend grumbled. "It''s more than worse! They were yelling words like idiot, stupid, and other bad kinds of stuff! They deserved to be banned!" the friend shrugged and also started reading again.


    Meanwhile, the alleged couple stood from their seats and then quickly exited the library.


    "I''ll see you after my class or maybe tomorrow," Sofia told Stephen as they walked side by side.


    It was time for Sofia''s next class and Stephen received a call from his bodyguard that they were waiting for him.


    "If I crash again in your place tonight?" Stephen asked.


    "Have you become homeless? Did your parents kicked you out?" Sofia halted her steps and asked him with a concerned tone. It was fine if Stephen would hang out in her place. But, she suddenly felt that this matter was not about hanging out with her anymore. It would seem as though Stephen had lost his home!


    "Ha? Why do you think of that?" Stephen curiously asked with soft touches of laughter escaped from his mouth.


    "I don''t know. If your parents will kick you out because of me, it''s very possible. But then again, you may have your other reasons for you to crash on my place again?" Sofia started. She thought that some parents would never tolerate their children''s decisions. And Since she had a bad impression with Stephen''s father on their first meeting, the old man might really kick him out to teach him a lesson.


    "They won''t kick me out. It was me who ran away from home," Stephen admitted. He was suddenly frozen on the spot when he realized how easy he had spoken that to Sofia. It was a sensitive subject for him to talk to yet, it already slipped in his tongue before he could ponder about it.


    "You are a run-away. But, how about the place that you had been staying? Did they had you removed?" Sofia inquired. It was not hard for Sofia to make a rough guessed about Stephen''s life.


    "It''s fine. I still have the place. But, it''s boring there. And the students next door are very noisy sometimes," Stephen complained.


    "With your reputation, you can easily talk sense to your noisy neighbors. Just tell them to minimize the volume of their noise," Sofia easily said.


    "Sof, you don''t want me to hang out in your place, anymore?" Stephen looked at her in the eye a questioning look. Because of Sofia''s series of responses, he could not help but think that the lady may have given her a decent alibi so that he would no longer come to his place.


    "Ah! That''s not it! It''s just not comfortable to always sleep on the sofa when you have the option to just sleep in your bed comfortably," Sofia replied. Her main concern was not of any rumors about them. She could not be bothered by it. The only thing that she was particularly concerned about was Stephen''s comfort.


    "I''ll be fine. Comparing to the noises in my place and the comfort of your sofa, I will choose the second one," Stephen shrugged.


    "Okay. if that''s alright with you, then, feel free to come to my place. See you later!" Sofia stated. Then, after their waves of goodbyes, the two of them went in the opposite direction.


    Sofia settled in the classroom at the front seat. It was still early and only a handful of students have arrived yet. Their teacher was not yet around.


    "Hi! S-Sofia, I have a proposal for you, sis!" one of the students in the same room chirped from behind.


    Sofia looked around and saw a nervous-looking classmate.


    "I want to invite you with this great opportunity!" the classmate added after their eyes made in contact.


    Sofia''s brows knitted together and wondered how come the girl was nervous. There should be no reason for her to be nervous at all!


    "Hello, there! What is your proposal, sister?" Sofia asked in a polite manner.


    "It''s about this business of investments. You can give any amount and it will surely be returned in double after a month. Join me. Since you have the prize money during the tournament, why not use it?" her classmate stated.


    At that point, Sofia realized what was happening. She nodded her head like a bunch of products were introduced to her. She could easily tell that this business was similar to what Jing Jing had suggested to her before.


    "Sister, sorry! But there is already a plan for the prize money. It''s not mine alone to invest. It''s owned by the entire squad. I wish you good luck in this venture," Sofia refused the lady with a professional tone.


    "Ah, just hear me out first of what is this business. And I''m sure you will like it. We have earned thousands every time we invest. So, don''t waste this opportunity!" the classmate encouraged. Her tone had changed and sounded confident.


    "It''s okay. Frankly, I have heard of the investments already. It''s sounded too good to be true. So, I won''t be joining," Sofia stated calmly.


    "It''s pretty easy. As long as you give money. It will guarantee to be multiplied after a month," the classmate pursued.


    This time, Sofia did not say anything. Only her head shook to indicate that she was not accepting the invitation of her classmate.


    This classmate wanted to speak more and did not want to back down. However, Sofia had already become busy on her phone and did not mind her classmates.


    "Tsk! It''s really a waste. You could have earned a big income starting today if you want to join. Just tell me if you changed your mind," the classmate finished before she returned to her seat.


    Soon after, the classroom was filled with students. The noise gradually became louder. And then, their teacher walked in just in time for the start of their class.


    "Hello, night class students! This time, you have to read pages 161-185 in your books and then answer the activities," the teacher announced.


    "Yes, ma''am!" the students chorused. This was not unusual for them to have no discussion.  Most of the time, their teacher would just sit behind her desk while the students were answering their activities.

 Chapter 166 - No Need To Rush!

    Sofia was a silent reader but when she formulated the answer to their activities there was a humming sound coming from her lips. The classroom became quiet as the students started to be serious about their tasks.


    ''This essay is also too easy,'' Sofia thought.


    Her hand''s movements were fast as it pressed the pen on her paper. Not even once she had scanned back what she read on the preceding pages. She only place every answer to the question that was asked in every activity.


    While the others were still reading, Sofia was almost done answering. This was the only discussion that they would do and because she had experienced soul among her classmates, she quickly finished all the assigned tasks.


    However, Sofia did not submit her papers. It would be too suspicious if she could give all her papers full of answers in such a small amount of time. Instead, she secretly took her phone and browsed the social media.


    As the teacher''s eyes wandered, it caught the figure of Sofia using her phone.


    "Excuse me? Student, give me your phone," the teacher stood and raised her palms, a gesture that was about to confiscate her phone.


    Sofia looked up and left her seat. She placed took her answer sheet as well as her phone and walked to the front.


    "I''m done answering the activities, ma''am!" Sofia softly muttered with a polite tone. Then, she handed her answer sheet to the teacher.


    "You are done? Student, don''t joke at me. It''s just been less than 15 minutes passed. Did you give me mediocre answers? Please review this and expound your essay," the teacher pushed back the paper that Sofia gave her. In her mind, the young lady must have been pranking him and giving random answers. Thus, she decided to tell her to review.


    "The answers that I wrote are not joke. I''ve really read all the details before answering them," Sofia replied. Her memory was sharp and with this school questionnaire, even if she won''t read, she could already answer it.


    The teacher glared and snatched the paper using a strong force. "Then, I''ll check your paper first. If there are silly answers in this test, I won''t give you consideration! But now, I am also confiscating your phone," the teacher insisted.


    Sofia did not complain and calmly nodded her head. She then placed her phone on the teacher''s desk before sitting back on her chair.


    "Psh! Are you really done? How come it''s too quick? Cheater!" one of the students in the front chair blurted out without looking at Sofia.


    "Yes, I am finished answering all the tasks. And there is no reason for me to cheat with such an easy test," Sofia stated. She was a fast reader that all pages were managed to read in just 6 minutes.


    Because her phone was confiscated, Sofia sort an entertainment into the back page of her notebook and started her sketching. While she was forming a figure in her cheap canvas, she was startled to see that after it was done, the figure was her face. The one that she had drawn was her past face.


    "You are already dead," Sofia blankly said as her sharp gaze almost penetrated and sliced the paper.


    Then, several more questions were submerged in her thoughts. ''Who could have killed me in my last life? Am I still in the same world as the one that I used to live in?''


    Sofia sighed and whispered all her confusion, "The past is the past. I won''t be able to return to that past life but I still want to know if it''s the same world or not. Or could it be that I am just dreaming?"


    After just a minute, her teacher stopped assessing her papers. "You''ve written pretty well! Do you want to join the essay writing contest at the regional meet? I am still looking for a representative of this event."


    "Literary contest is nice. I can handle it as long as I am available," Sofia casually answered.


    The teacher was completely taken aback by this response. Her eyes widened for a brief period of time. She then, gave Sofia a deep scowl and asked, "Available? Just what are you to be so busy? Academic activities can also help you get a good grades."


    In her teaching career, she had never heard of such a blatant response from the students. In her mind, the student''s response was out of place. But for Sofia, she did not think too much of it.


    "That''s true. I have few errands that sometimes cannot be reached. But if the schedule of the essay writing contest is the day that I am available, then I will surely compete," Sofia reasoned.


    "Good! Then, I''ll put you on the contest," the teacher responded.


    "When is it?" Sofia asked. Somehow, she wanted to ridicule the way how she was being enlisted when she did not even know the details or existence of the essay!"


    "There is no fixed date for the essay writing contest yet." the teacher responded. "I will announce the details about it."


    "Okay, I will wait for the formal announcement of this contest," Sofia replied.


    After the teacher record Sofia''s score, she was quickly dismissed. "You can take your phone and go home."


    Seeing that their classmate was already dismissed in class, her fellow students quickened their writing too.


    Sofia walked alone in an empty hallway until she reached the gate of their school. A yawn escaped from her lips as soon as she stepped out of the school. Then, she could feel that her eyes were sleepy.


    ''Today was rather an eventful day. Even if I am used to traveling in the past, this new body that I have is actually quick to get tired,'' Sofia mentally complained. She was overwhelmed with fatigue but it was only her body that was sleepy. Psychologically, she was fully excited.


    Sofia easily crossed the pedestrian lane and strode towards the convenience store. She picked random foods on the stall and pad for them before she went straight to her apartment.


    Out of the darkness, Stephen suddenly emerged and called her, "Sof!"


    Sofia jumped in surprise. She never expected to see Stephen. But, it turns out that the man was planning to crash in her place again.


    ''This boy... ahh, the generation has really changed,'' she could not help but make a vague comment. Then she realized the irony of her thoughts. How could the generation changed when she came from the future? She could only sigh and shook her head.


    "Did I startle you? Sorry!" Stephen walked side by side to her and rubbed her back casually.


    "It''s fine. No worries about it. Anyway, you are really going to stay on my uncomfortable sofa again?" she questioned in disbelief. But then, they were still young, so even if they took asleep at a desk, their body would only numb for a bit.


    "Hehehe, I like your place. It''s quiet," Stephen reasoned.


    While these two were walking silently on the side of the road, a rumor was also spreading to social media. The rumors contained a picture of Sofia and Stephen''s back while they were giggling at the library earlier.


    The caption of the first person to post this picture was just a heart and the hashtag #SofPhen. After the post caught the attention of the Chronos squad fans, most of them quickly shared the post.


    Claire who was already in her apartment and was casually exchanging chat messages to Clark also saw the commotion on social media.


    Without hesitation, she shot up from her seat and dialed Sofia''s number.


    In just a single rang, she quickly heard Sofia''s voice.


    "Claire," Sofia called.


    "Are you two officially in a relationship? My gosh! You look so perfect! Wow! Wow!" Claire excitedly asked.


    "What are you talking about? Who is perfect?" Sofia questioned.


    "There is a picture of you and Stephen sharing the table in the library. The two of you looked so intimate! Hehehe, Spill the details and don''t leave anything," Claire teased.


    "There are no details to be spill other than the tasks that we will have to do. I''ll send you all tasks," Sofia stated as she had quickly guessed Claire''s teasing tone.


    "So, the two of you are not yet official? But why is Stephen accompanying you? Is he going to sleep again in your unit?" Claire simultaneously asked. The enthusiasm in her voice was something that sounded amusing to Sofia''s ear.


    "Calm down, Claire. It''s his neighbor who is causing noise pollution. So, he will sleep in my place again. But, it does not mean we are officially in a relationship," Sofia explained.


    "Why not? Are you afraid of Stephen''s line of girls? Don''t worry, I will help you deal with them if they make trouble," Claire cheered firmly.


    "Why are you so excited about it? Are you and Clark official now?" Sofia returned the question to Claire.


    In an instant, Claire''s face turned into a deep shade of pink. "It''s not yet," she shyly stated. Based on Claire''s tone, it sounded more like she wanted to make an official relationship with Clark too. One that is beyond friendship.


    "Eh? Then, there''s no rush needed when it comes to relationships. Take it easy. Hehe, if you have no school works and are still not sleepy, search from interior design on the internet," Sofia casually said.

 Chapter 167 - Lively Group Chat

    Claire swiftly sneaked out of her unit and hide in the corner. A small curve moved upwards while thinking of her playful plan. She waited for Sofia and Stephen to pass by as she prepared her camera. She even checked the flash settings as well as the volume, just to be safe that the two would not notice her.


    Sure enough, Sofia strode directly in the direction of her unit. Stephen was beside her and the two seemed to be in a deep conversation as they walk side by side. ''They did not even notice me! Hahaha, perfect!''


    "Hihi," Claire giggled and snapped another photo of their back. Then, she quickly returned to her room full of excitement.


    That night, the group chat of the Chronos squad became very lively. Although most of the time, they occasionally exchange messages, right now, the average response was sent with promptness. And most responses were sent in three to four lines, indicating that they were truly focusing on the chat.


    Claire started the chat, teasing Stephen about crashing at Sofia''s place for the third time.


    At that time, the man in question had just taken a seat on the sofa where he would suppose to sleep.


    "Haha," Stephen lightly laugh upon seeing Claire''s message.


    Claire: Guys, Stephen sleep in Sofia''s unit last night. Tonight I saw them together.


    This chat was accompanied by five heart emojis, wrapped with a ribbon and an image of the two passing by the hallway.


    Sofia did not notice the conversation first. She was busy scrolling in her laptop about items that they would be needing once their business starts to operate.


    Stephen rearranged his sitting position and casually typed a reply to Claire. But before he could send his response, Joey and Clark had already sent their shock emoji reactions. Then, followed by their replies.


    Joey: Bro, that''s our squad leader.


    :Have some respect. ;)


    His tone seemed to be reprimanding Stephen, however, there was a winky face emoji at the end that made everyone reacted with a giggle.


    Clark: It''s also nice to make our squad become closer.


    : More than just friends?


    : Look at the social media, their picture in the library are also trending!


    On the side of Clark, there was also the excitement of how he typed his reply. Every sentence was sent individually instead of typing it once.


    The three go on volleying messages for quite a while before they finally saw Stephen''s reply.


    Stephen: My neighbors are noisy in my place. So I''m crashing here! But, thank you for the support guys! :)


    How could Stephen miss the opportunity to join their fun? It was not that he had a bad or malicious intention for crashing the place. Perhaps, he just really wanted to sleep in Sofia''s unit.


    Joey: Aiiiyoooo, my boy! We will support you two!


    : Do you know you have a fans club now?


    : Even if I remain single in this squad, it is fine!


    Stephen: I have so many fans club -.-


    : What single? You probably have many girls chatting with you right now!


    It was true that Stephen''s popularity with girls in school had also reached in social media. Some group of girls even made a bold move of creating a page with Stephen as their tandem in hope that he would notice them.


    As for Joey, he was part of the basketball team before he joined the Chronos squad. Hence, there were also girls that were hoping to catch his attention too.


    Joey: Hehe, same same, bro! What are you two doing now? Ehh, Sofia, don''t fall on his trick! That man has no noisy neighbors!


    Stephen: Don''t slander me! They are really noisy!


    Stephen insisted despite Joey''s denial. Meanwhile, Clark and Stephen sent a series of laughing emojis with tears of joy.


    While Sofia was done sorting all the pieces of information that she needed, she took her phone and checked her emails too. It was a habit that she had practiced in her past life. After checking all unread emails, she shifted her attention towards their chat group. Only to discover the exchange of conversations from her members teasing Stephen and her.


    Sofia: The four of you seem idle? No school homework?


    Claire: Hehe, Sof, you are online! Hehe


    The waving emoji flooded in the group chat but at the end of the conversation was Sofia''s reply. It was a picture too but one that contains her handwriting.


    Joey: What task? Aiyoo, I''m going to sleep now!


    Sofia: If you are idle, go and do some research. If you are sleepy, have a good rest!


    The photo that Sofia sent was exactly the individual tasks that she crafted in the library earlier. It was just mostly research of design and supplies.


    Clark: I will do this tomorrow, Sof. Good night guys!


    The two quickly exited the group chat. Sofia did not also mind about it for she was not really in a rush. Her intention was just to divide responsibility for the group so that they won''t be dependent on her. At least, they would surely learn the things they needed to know with her guidance.


    Sofia went to her kitchen and grab a glass of water. She silently backread all the conversation in their group chat before she shook her head in amusement.


    After few minutes of back reading, she moved her feet and grab another glass, then she brought the glass of water to Stephen.


    "Stay hydrated," she said while placing the glass on the mini table.


    By now, Stephen was starting to do his task. Since his task was only a design in the dining layout, he made a series of screenshots on his phone and save them right away.


    "Thank you, Sof! I''m researching the layout of good dining areas," Stephen reported.


    "Okay, I''m going to sleep now. Don''t force yourself. It''s not urgent. You can do it anytime," Sofia told him. Since they have not yet acquired the building, Sofia was not in a rush.


    "Okay, good night, Sof!" Stephen called and gently smiled at her.


    "Good night!" Sofia responded with a nod on her head. She went to her room and swiftly laid in bed with her face buried in her pillow.


    Sofia sighed and closed her eyes. Mostly, her brain would wander for several minutes before she would go to her slumber. It was still early if she would follow the clock of a gamer. It''s just 10:28 PM in her digital alarm clock. The majority of the gamers were surely starting to play until the game starts to reset for the daily quests. However, Sofia did not open her account anymore.


    This time, sleep was really quick to envelop Sofia the moment her body touched the bed. With all the errands that she had done for the day, she had fully drained the energy of her body.


    Stephen finished the task that Sofia sent in their group chat. Claire also made her own research and sent all her screenshots in their conversation.


    Claire: Sof, here are the things that I have found interesting!


    Stephen: She''s asleep, Claire.


    Stephen took the initiative to respond and inform Claire that Sofia won''t be replying right now. But who knows what Claire''s mind was thinking. The moment she saw Stephen''s reply, her eyes widened and a blush crept on her cheeks.


    Claire: Are you sharing a bed, Stephen?!


    By the time Stephen received this response, he was drinking the glass of water that Sofia gave him. He almost choked after he read Claire''s reply.


    "Cough! Cough! Cough!" the coughing sound echoed through the silence of Sofia''s apartment. "What the f*ck!" he muttered as his shirt was spilled slightly with the water that he drank.


    Because Stephen did not answer her question, Claire instantly assumed that his lack of response was a confirmation. Then she sent another message...


    Claire: Oh my gosh!!!


    When Stephen managed to calm down, he quickly typed a reply.


    Stephen: @Clark, your girl has such an active mind!


    This time, Claire gasped for air. Then she sent the same message but not, it was all in uppercase.


    Claire: OH MY GOSH!!!


    Clark who was pinged was not yet really sleeping. So when he saw the notification, he quickly backread and grinned before he composed a reply.


    Clark: Don''t tease Claire, bro. Are you really sharing a bed with Sofia?


    District 7 was pretty much a home of conservative people among other regions. Thus, they could not help but ask Stephen about their sleeping arrangement.


    Stephen smirked while reading Clark''s reply. Then, he typed his message.


    Stephen: The two of you are really alike in mind! I am on the sofa not in Sofia''s bed!


    Claire quickly sent a thumbs up to his explanation. Stephen followed to send the same thumbs-up emoji just a few milliseconds away from Claire''s message.


    Stephen stared at the response of the two.. But because he had nothing to say, their late-night conversation with the group ended.

 Chapter 168 - Young Master Lee Requests Background Check Of Grace

    The next day, a distinguished man riding a private vehicle arrived outside the residence of the Lee Family. The car was heavily tinted but its plate number signifies that whoever was inside the car must be someone that could not be offended.


    As he stepped out of the car, he tidied his necktie and looked at his reflection from the window of the car. The towering gate of the Lee mansion automatically opened the moment the sensor camera that was built in the wall detected him.


    One of the male attendants who was near the gate at that time quickly approached him.


    "Good morning, sir! Please, come this way," the attendant politely said.


    He swiftly guided the man towards the living room of the residence.


    The man looked straight ahead and did not scan the place. He did not say a word also making the servant felt tense.


    Upon arriving near the living room, the attendant paused and took a deep breath. Then, he announced, "Young Master, your guest is here!"


    After the servant announced, he bowed his head and walked away.


    The man looked at his peripheral vision of the figure of the servant until it was completely gone. Then, his face morphed into a more friendly expression.


    "That''s pretty quick of you to come here," Brent said. He was working something in his laptop and did not bother looking at the man.


    "My connections have expanded," the man responded as he moved his feet and went to the couch.


    "That''s nice! I just gave you the details yesterday! I anticipated for you to take two to three days before you see me," Brent finally glanced at the man. Then, he raised his brows after seeing the degree of formality the man''s attire was. He was just in his casual shirt but the man was in a full suit!


    The man grinned widely, showing his perfect white teeth, and comfortably sat on the couch. The aura of formality in him was slightly lessened as the goofy smile appeared on his lips.


    "Young master Lee, long time no see! I''ve never expected that a day would come that you would contact me and demand my services. Hehe, and it''s even for a girl? How unprecedented," the man said in a teasing tone. His head dramatically swayed from left to right as spoke to him.


    "Ahh, you''ve never changed a bit even though it had been years. Why are you even dress like this?" Brent questioned. This man looked more like he was the boss and Brent was his employee!


    "This is newly delivered. So, I have to brag about the clothing! Haha," the man slightly laughed. At that time, the two of them were dressed in very opposite attire.


    "HAHAHA, and you brag that suit for whom? Did you have a clothing business?" Brent smirked.


    "Aiyyooo, never mind! I know, I can''t brag in front of you when it comes to material things. But, I could flex to our friends that you asked help from me. Hehe," the man smugly said.


    "Well, of course, I had to rely on your capability or else, the government will be alerted. It would be too much to handle if they found out. I want to keep this a secret," Brent reasoned. Then, he gestured towards the man if he wanted a drink.


    "No need for drinks. Anyway, what''s the deal about that lady and you? I''m kind of curious but at the same time, I don''t want to provoke you," the man blurted out.


    "You don''t want to provoke me yet you want to brag your attire? Please be consistent!" Brent started.


    The man scratched his head and felt a little embarrassed. Then, he asked him back to change their topic, "Why are you hiding this investigation from the local government?"


    To say, Brent hired a private detective yesterday. This happened after he left the Rosen Club.


    "I''m just suspicious about that lady," Brent simply replied.


    "There should be more to it than just being suspicious? Tell me or I will find out myself," the man confidently declared.


    "Hahaha, I''ll tell you. You know, the lady proposed an alliance of marriage on me yesterday. I don''t know if I''ll admire her courage or laugh at her innocence. Of all men in this district, she actually approached me to be his husband!?" Brent stated while shaking his head. There was a small contempt and disbelief in his tone.


    "Ohh," the man gazed at him and became speechless for a long time. He was just staring blankly at Brent as if he failed to process the details that he just heard.


    "See? That''s my reaction yesterday too! What kind of woman wants to be with me? I guess only those who want my money," Brent shrugged and sat on the opposite side of the couch.


    "T-that''s indeed beyond unexpected for a woman to propose marriage at you. Your last relationship scandal was pretty blunt," the man subconsciously responded.


    "What scandal? Don''t put dirt on my name! There is no scandal that I am involved!" Brent snapped after hearing the man''s accusations.


    "Not that dirty thing in your mind. What I meant was the incident where your ex called you a boring and lousy boyfriend. That was considered a scandal," the man defended.


    "Then make it clear when you speak about it! Otherwise, if others can hear it, they might think of some malicious deeds!" Brent scolded the man. He even rolled his eyes on him.


    "Fine! Though, it''s pretty much bold of her to propose to you. D-did you agree?" the man curious inquired. The man could tell that there was no familiarity of Brent and Grace in the manner of how he spoke. Yet, he still wanted to know how the proposal of the lady went through.


    These two men were great friends during their academy year. Thus, the man was completely aware of Brent''s character and his relationship with girls. It was, if not bland then, non-existent, for the man was too focused on his career.


    "It''s convenient to agree. Hehehe... My old man is also nagging me about getting married. Anyway, I still need to see the background of her, and all her secrets," Brent casually stated.


    "Well, you''ll never see another kind of courageous girl like that. I mean, the way you describe her yesterday, I could tell that you have a small interest in her too," the man commented with slight amusement in his voice.


    "Who knows? Hmmm... Not really interest, I think it''s more like intrigue. I''m curious." Brent paused then examined the entire outfit of his friend once more.


    "Are you jealous of my suit? I''ve customized it. How about you order one of this kind too," the man smugly said as he felt Brent''s gaze swept towards him.


    "You always like this kind of clothing, Private Investigator Goerge! This attire suits your title. I cannot compare this to that on my wardrobe," Brent chuckled.


    "I don''t dare to compare anything in your wardrobe. With your money, you can get hundreds of this!" the man playfully wave his hand and took a small flash drive in his pocket.


    "Do you have the things that I asked you yesterday?" Brent asked as he caught a glimpse of the storage device that the man was holding. Brent''s face became serious. His expression cannot be read anymore.


    The man also sighed and appeared serious.


    "Young Master Lee, here is the entire file that I painstakingly search and managed to uncover about the mayor''s daughter," the man handed the flash drive to him.


    Brent stood and moved the laptop that was just sitting on the table. He then inserted the flash drive and examined its content.


    "That lady is arranged to marry the heir of the Ching. But I did not investigate further about this marriage or which district was her fiance since you only asked for her information," the man explained.


    "The Ching family? I''ve meet the head of the Chings last year... Hmmm, I see," Brent muttered with a few nodding movements of his head. He then took his phone and dialed Grace''s contact number.


    "Are you contacting the lady?" the man asked.


    "Yes, it''s better to ask her directly about the affairs of her family and the Chings. Let''s see if she would deny this matter," Brent stated in a cold tone.


    "Then, I''ll take my leave now, young master Brent. I still have other concerns to fix too. Next time, you better treat me to one of your private villas," the man said.


    "Thank you for this file. I''ll compensate you for sure," Brent said.


    "No need. Just invite me to the wedding. Hehe," the man chuckled before he went away.


    Wedding! Brent made a facepalm and brushed his hair. Registering a marriage is one thing while conducting his wedding ceremony was another. Brent could only sigh while waiting for his call to be answered.


    "Young Master Lee? Do you need anything from me?" Grace finally answered. Although her voice was gentle, it was distant.


    "Your marriage is already arranged to someone by your parents. But you also proposed to me. What''s the meaning of this?  Brent directly asked.


    "Young master Lee, it''s none of your business.. As long as you agree about my proposal yesterday, you cannot back down," Grace firmly responded.

 Chapter 169 - A Decisive And Relentless Character

    ''None of my business?! How dare this woman dismissed me so easily when it was her who needed my cooperation!'' Brent mentally exclaimed as his entire face turned dark. He felt that he already regretted agreeing to the marriage arrangement that the two of them discussed yesterday. It was quick but also convenient for his situation.


    Their line turned silent for a long time. None of them wanted to speak and even Grace felt like she had wronged the man.


    But, she had also grasped the situation after the man asked her about it. For some reason, she felt that the man had crossed her boundary.


    "Young master Lee, you must have investigated my situation. Hehe! Why did you not ask me directly?" Grace finally managed to confront him.


    "Can you blame me if I hired an investigator to check your hidden agenda? Hmmph! We are both strangers yet, you have approached me for marriage. I have to know your intention!" Brent demanded.


    "My intention? Isn''t it because you are the most suitable man for me? At least, let''s maintain our private affairs. I won''t interfere with your life and do not interfere with mine too! I just needed a husband to present to my parents and you needed a wife. Our situation is the same," Grace narrated.


    "Woman, you are delusional! Even if this is our situation, do you think that your life is a movie? What is going on with your brain? If you want to be my wife, naturally, I have the right to interfere with all aspects of your life! There is no such thing as pretending not to care!" Brent coldly stated. How could the woman think of such an absurd arrangement?


    "Young master Lee, that is exactly what I want. To only have the kind of fa?ade in front of our parents. In the eyes of the public, I can promise you that I will be a great wife. But, please do not mind on my personal business," Grace insisted.


    "No! What do you think of me? I am not a tool! If you want marriage, you must commit and be loyal to me!" Brent directly demanded in a harsh tone. This time, he was really pissed. "Woman, just who do you think you are?" his voice sounded like it was more than a threat.


    "I--- don''t... " Grace became speechless.


    Commitment and loyalty! She had really miscalculated the character of Brent.


    There were rumors spreading throughout the entire district that this man was a workaholic. So, she assumed that Brent would not even pay attention to her. Who would have thought that he would put a value on their arrangement deeply?


    "What now?! Speak! Who is arranged to marry you? This only heir of the Ching family. I need to know his identity. Since you came to me for marriage, I guess that you are not satisfied with your parent''s arrangement?" Brent started with an accusing tone.


    "It''s not that. Don''t make your own assumptions! Ha!" Grace felt helpless. She did not intend to mention Sofia and Stephen in this conversation yet, at this point, she felt like the man had already cornered her.


    "This is me giving you face. Do you think I can''t dig out this arrangement between you and the heir of the Ching family? With just one call, I will know who this man is. But, I still want to hear the details coming from you," Brent mumbled. There was an urgency in his tone that made Grace felt grieved.


    "Okay, I''ll tell you. But, this idea is all made by me. No one incited me to do this," the lady responded in a despondent tone.


    "I''m listening. Go ahead," Brent commanded.


    "I know that you have a good connection with that young lady from the Chronos squad. The arrangement of my marriage, I did not object at first. But, the other party did not show any interest in me. I hired an investigator about the man and found out that he liked Sofia. So, I just leave him be. As long as I can present you to my parents, the arrangement will surely be erased,"  Grace explained.


    "I see, I get it now. Tell your parent that I will seek their approval for your hand in marriage today," Brent finalized. He was not na?ve. With just a brief explanation, he had already comprehended who was the existing fianc¨¦ of Grace.


    "T-today?! Why is it so sudden?" Grace blurted, fully surprised by this idea.


    "There is no benefit if we will delay this matter. Anyway, you seemed to be decided about me. Our marriage, won''t be a joke. I will interfere with your affairs. If you don''t like that, then, cancel this plan right now," Brent ordered.


    The man was very decisive and relentless. This character of him was the very reason why he already had the head position of the Lee family.


    "Must it really be today? I mean, we just spoke about this yesterday. At least, give some leeway," Grace gently mumbled.


    "Leeway? What are you talking about? Me agreeing to this arrangement is already a leeway. The Lee family is respected in every corner of this district. I have a name that I am protecting and surely, you are the same. If I don''t follow the customs and courtesy of marriage, my name would be looked down on by the others," Brent said firmly.


    Brent may have had rumors in the past and was believed to be a boring boyfriend during his youth. But, he was fully aware that when it comes to marriage, there were procedures that he needed cannot ignore.


    He could not say that he was fully attracted to Grace. And he does not feel like tying a knot but for some unknown reason, the idea of marrying Grace actually intrigues him. So much that he agreed to her audacious proposal despite being a complete stranger.


    "I am fully aware of your status, young master Brent. You don''t need to remind me how high people look at you. But, I still think that we should perhaps give it another day before you meet my parents," Grace bargained. She was completely lost. How is she going to tell her parents that Brent would ask for her hands in marriage?


    "Don''t waste my time, Grace. Do you want to have this arrangement?" Brent questioned.


    "To be honest, I have no other choice, young master Lee," Grace admitted. If only there was another man that was as distinguished as Brent, she would have picked the man already. Now, she finally discerned that Brent was uncompromising. Once he decided something, there was no turning back.


    "Hahaha, no other choice! That''s too bad for you, not me... Because, I have too many choices," Brent slightly laughed. He does not understand himself either. He could actually get a girl the next time his old man asked him to get married. With the digits of his bank accounts and his status in the district, there were too many girls that would agree with him. Surprisingly, he wanted to settle such things with Grace.


    "Yeah, it''s really too bad," Grace agreed. Her confirmation slightly stirred a small portion of sympathy to Brent''s heart.


    "Let me guess? Because you were arranged to marry the heir of the Ching, only another man that had a bigger family reputation could break off that arrangement. Don''t bother looking because you really had no choice. Only the Lee can compete with the Chings," Brent started.


    "Perhaps. Okay, what time do you want to come to my house? I still have to convince my parents to meet you," Grace stated feeling her head throbbing lightly.


    "I''ll have to explain your sudden existence in my life to my family too," Brent defended. With their drastic agreement, the crucial problem that they were facing was how to convince their family about their relationship.


    "Okay, just stick to what we have discussed yesterday," Grace reminded the man.


    "I know what to do. My family will come to your mansion at exactly 10 AM. No need for your family to prepare anything. We will just be there to seal this silly idea you have," Brent answered.


    -


    -


    After their conversation, Brent massaged the bridge of his nose and exhaled loudly. His mother happened to walked down and halted her steps in the middle of the staircase upon hearing his deep sigh.


    "What is that depressing expression this early in the morning? Son, do you have a problem?" his mother questioned with a worried expression on her face.


    "Mother, no, I have no problem. But, may I ask if father is awake?" Brent smiled at the woman cheekily.


    "What is it?" the sound of the man called from the second floor of their residence.


    "Hehe, Pa, since you and mother had nagged me about marriage, go and prepare yourself. We will pay a visit to your future daughter-in-law," Brent stated as he forced his voice to sound casual.


    The two elders stood frozen with wide eyes. They started rubbing gently slapping their own faces. Then, the two sprinted near his side.


    "Am I dreaming? Did I hear it correctly?" the two questioned in unison.


    "You are not dreaming. Ma, Pa, there is a girl that I planned to marry. She is quite well-known in this district," Brent responded. He emphasized the ''planned'' to convince his parents that it was already a final decision for him.


    The two elders looked at each other. Then, they started jumping their feet out of happiness. Their son planned to get married! Such a good news for them to start a great day!


    Brent could only shake his head as to how childish his parents could act in front of him.

 Chapter 170 - Acquisition Of Property (1)

    "Son, your mother and I are so happy! You have finally put our words to your heart! AHAHA, I can''t contain my happiness!" his father spoke while clapping his hand out of joy.


    "That''s right! Son, we must celebrate! Ah! But why is this so sudden? I did not know that you are fascinated with any girl in this district," his mother slightly pouted. "Nevertheless, this is a happy occasion!" she continued before Brent could respond to her.


    "Ma, Pa, please act properly. What are you two jumping around? Aren''t you gonna ask me which family the lady is?" Brent asked his parents. He slightly glowered while gazing at the two elders.


    "Hahaha, my most awesome son and the best man in the entire world had finally picked a lady to be his wife. No matter which family she comes from, we will accept her," his father beamed with full of excitement in his eyes. His mother continuously nodded her head in agreement.


    "We must call your sister and tell her to come home. Which country is she right now? Our family must be complete to share this good news!" his mother suggested.


    "Ma, I''ve already told my sister of all this. Anyway, if you don''t want to know anything about the lady, I''ll simply tell you. She is the mayor''s daughter," Brent brought it up and carefully watched as the expression of his parents drastically changed.


    The moment the two elders heard him, their excitement abruptly stopped. The face of his father turned serious and the jubilant atmosphere of their mansion instantly dropped.


    "Are you sure about her? You want to get involved with politics, son?" his father questioned.


    Brent scratched his head and went to his parent''s side. He took a deep breath and then rubbed both of their back. He slightly shrugged and gave them a thoughtful look. "I don''t want to involve our family with the dirty games in politics. But, I can''t help it."


    "If you can''t help it, then, that must really be true love," his mother quickly assumed.


    Brent blankly stared at his mother about her notion. He had not even spoken the details yet his mother already called his feelings ''True love!''


    "But--- our mayor''s daughter is a fine lady too in terms of appearance and beauty. Still, be careful of her. She might just use our family status for her personal gains," his mother continued seeing that her son became silent.


    Most businessmen in district 7 had curry favor for their politicians to gain mutual benefits. But for the Lee family, it was the other way around. Politicians tried to butter them up to seek their support. However, all they care about was their business and they never showed interest in politics.


    It was because the influence of their Lee family was far beyond politics. To say, they don''t demand support from the government for it was the government that needed them.


    "Nothing really comes good from a rotten tree. Politics and corruption. Son, we never questioned your decisions. But, the matter of tying our family to politics... it may cause harm to you?" his father expressed worriedly.


    "I have it under my control, Pa. Don''t worry," Brent assured them.


    "Okay, I know you are capable. Then, so be it. We will support you. We cannot bear to break your true feelings," his mother forced a smile before the two left their son.


    Brent gazed at their figures until they completely went to the dining hall. A small smile curled on his face thinking that his parents were easily convinced.


    After a while, he sat back on the couch and composed a message on his laptop.


    His hands lazily typed on the keyboard, pressing the keys unhurriedly.


    "I''m getting married. Your squad is invited."


    The two sentences were easily composed before he sent them without reading again towards Sofia.


    ''I never thought that the heir of the Ching family is that boy in Sofia''s squad,'' he mentally wondered as the image of Stephen came into his mind.


    The response of Sofia was also prompt.


    Sofia: Best Wishes! When is the wedding date?


    Brent: Not curious who the bride is?


    Sofia: I know her, my friend Grace.


    Brent chuckled and felt at loss after reading the last response from Sofia. If he was known to have a decisive and relentless character, Sofia was direct and straightforward.


    Now that Sofia did not feign ignorance about the matter, there was no room for him to confront him. At the back of his mind, he wished that Sofia would really ask about the bride. In that way, he could at least get angry and be mad for bringing Grace to the lunch yesterday.


    Brent decided to stop thinking about Sofia''s involvement and started making arrangements for his plans later.


    Meanwhile, Sofia was with Jing Jing at that time when she received Brent''s message. Jing Jing was driving her car and they were settled in comfortable silence. The two of them were going to the intersection road to meet the owner of the establishment.


    "Miss Sofia, you look happy," Jing Jing commented when she caught Sofia grinning in front of her phone. The brightness of her expression was too dazzling to ignore.


    "Sister Jing, everything is going well. I am happy. Thank you for your help and I appreciate you working for us," Sofia responded brightly.


    "That''s good to hear. Boss Ma already transferred the money to the bank account. I also informed him that I will be working with your squad now," Jing Jing notified.


    "He already fired you in his company. There is no need for you to notify him of your future plans, sister Jing," Sofia commented.


    "I know. But, I really treated them as my family now. yesterday, I heard that Boss Ma invested millions in that business that I mentioned to you before, He was hoping to profit big next month. But, when I told my colleagues that the business was a scam, Boss Ma was really pissed at me," Jing Jing explained.


    "It''s a scam. Whether he is angry at you for telling it in advance or not, he will find out the result of his investment soon. Trust me, this kind of business only capitalized the investment from the people who enrolled on them. But, they have no product at all. That alone is already worth questioning," Sofia murmured while gazing at the street ahead of them.


    "I trust you. I''m not sure why, but, I do," Jing Jing smiled at Sofia.


    Sofia''s heart tugged and she felt completely moved. In the past, Jing Jing would also give her this kind of encouragement whenever she engaged in a new venture.


    "Time will unveil the truth about this kind of business that they engaged, sister Jing. Just wait for it," Sofia softly responded.


    "Mmmn, here we are," Jing Jing spoke and stopped the engined of her car.


    The two swiftly moved out of the vehicle and strode towards the closed establishment.


    "Last time I came here, the walls are not pretty much vandalized," Sofia commented while her line of vision went straight to the graffiti that was on the wall of the building.


    "This location is actually troublesome. I can''t believe you will pick this building. Are you sure you want to start a business here?" Jing Jing voiced out her hesitation as her eyes wandered all over the establishment. Since her former job was to broadcast events of their district, she was also well-informed about how bad the environment of the area was.


    "Sister Jing, this place is suitable," Sofia firmly replied.


    While the two stood in front of the building, the owner quickly stepped out to greet them.


    "Hello, young ladies! Oh, it''s this lady Jing Jing! Hello, Hello!" the man spoke with excitement and familiarity. Jing Jing slightly bowed her head to recognize the man''s greetings.


    "You must be the buyer of my property?" the owner glanced at Sofia with a surprised expression on his face.


    "Yes, it''s me that contacted you yesterday, Mr. Feng," Sofia confirmed.


    The man gave a subtle look at her overall attire before leading them inside the building. Sofia had contacted him about her intent to buy his building, but he did not expect that he was dealing with a teenager. Hence, no matter how he wanted to pretend his composure, he could not hide the surprised expression on his face.


    "My lawyers are inside. We can finalize the transaction now. But, do you have your lawyers to represent your side?" the man questioned.


    "Sister Jing Jing is an adult that will represent me to finalize our transaction, Mr. Feng. I have no lawyer," Sofia stated.


    "Young miss, it''s fine for this transaction. But, in the future, please don''t be reckless. Matters like this must be examined by a lawyer so that you will not be tricked. In this world, too many people sort for deception in order to gain money," the man stated in a serious tone.


    Sofia understood his sympathy and did not refute it. "Thank you, Mr. Feng.. I will keep your advice in mind."

 Chapter 171 - Acquisition Of Property (2)

    "Sofia, you are so young! And I meant that as a compliment!" Mr. Feng cast a bright smile and expressed his opinion while the three of them stepped inside the establishment.


    He did not know if he would feel wary or if he would be proud of this girl''s courage to negotiate with him. All he was certain of was that their negotiation over the phone was a matter of fact, a one-sided deal. Sofia laid everything and she found her offer very reasonable. Thus, he quickly wanted to sell his property.


    "Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Feng. I just have some aspirations in the commercial market. So, I want to open a business," Sofia humbly replied.


    "You are a gamer, it''s what you mentioned over the phone, right? Do you plan to make this building a gaming hub?" Mr. Feng curiously inquired.


    "No, it''s not a gaming facility. You will see once we start to operate," Sofia smiled at him.


    ''This girl is too cautious! She did not even reveal her plans for my property. What a rare attitude!'' Mr. Feng mentally said while staring at Sofia.


    In a distance, a man was already waiting for their arrival. This man''s attire was similar to the private investigator that Brent spoke to, he was wearing an expensive black business suit.


    An earphone was plugged into his ears and a piece of rock music covered his sense of hearing. His attention was on the piles of papers on the table and he did not notice that the three people were approaching him.


    "Atty. Will, here are the buyers of my property," the owner loudly introduced Jing Jing and Sofia in a formal tone.


    The man looked up and removed the earphones on his ear. He then gave them an apologetic smile.


    "Great to finally meet you," the lawyer stood from his seat and bowed respectfully at the two ladies. His gaze stayed at Jing Jing for a few seconds before a returned to his seat.


    "Please have a seat, young ladies," the owner gestured to the two empty chairs Sofia and Jing Jing.


    "Thank you. Let''s get started," Sofia and Jing Jing replied and sat properly.


    "Ehem! Yes, let''s start," Mr. Feng signaled to his lawyer and the man nodded his head in understanding.


    "Here are the documents for the deed of sale for both building and land. If you are satisfied, you can sign both your names on the next page," the lawyer of Mr. Feng handed a folder to Sofia and Jing Jing. He only came to finalize the transactions. As for the negotiations, it was the owner who arranged everything.


    "That is what we have discussed over the phone," Mr. Feng told Sofia.


    Sofia nodded her head. She then slowly opened the file and read the contents of the contract.


    This time, it was the lawyer that was surprised to see her reading the document with a solemn expression on her face.


    He did not bother to conceal his curiosity and continued to look in Sofia''s direction.


    "This young lady, can she understand the contract of our deed of sale?" the lawyer whispered to Mr. Feng. It was not that he looked down on Sofia''s ability to comprehend the contents. He was just worried that she was too naive and was reading carelessly the files that he prepared.


    "I was also surprised to see her so young in person. But, this girl was the one who contacted me yesterday. So, the contents of this document were of course negotiated by her," Mr. Feng responded in a low voice.


    "Mr. Feng, are you sure that you negotiated the details of the deed of sale with her? Where is her lawyer? Which family does she belong to?" the lawyer could not help but simultaneously asked several questions in a very low tone.


    "I already told her about needing a lawyer. And this young girl is actually cautious than I am. I asked her about the plans in the building, but she did not reveal," Mr. Feng responded.


    "I see. Now, I''m curious which family does she come from," the lawyer mumbled.


    Jing Jing only took a glance at the contract but Sofia examined every paragraph. After she was satisfied with the content, she easily signed the documents.


    Sofia signed the bottom portion and also the side of every page. Then, she pushed back the folder towards the lawyer.


    "Here is the money. We will transfer the full amount," Jing Jing stated. She then opened the mobile application of the bank and process the transfer of funds.


    "Mr. Feng, it seems that the young girl is not a first-timer," the lawyer chuckled and showed Sofia''s signature. Normally, they would need to ask the clients to sign the side portion of every document too after signing at the bottom. It was their usual practice for this type of contract to ensure that signatures were not forged.


    Sofia heard his remarks and only gave him a formal smile. "I''m not that young. In a few days, I can sign a contract alone. And I''ve got few experiences, attorney."


    "Hehe, that''s impressive! Very Impressive!" the lawyer murmured his praises while tucking in their copy of the documents.


    "Young Miss, the place is yours now. Good luck with your endeavors," Mr. Feng spoked and handed all the keys to the establishments.


    "Thank you, Mr. Feng." Sofia calmly accepted all the keys dangling on the man''s hand.


    The lawyer took the initiative to extend his hand for a handshake. Sofia accepted and their transaction was complete.


    After some time, Mr. Feng and his lawyer left but Jing Jing and Sofia stayed inside the building. They surveyed every corner of the place.


    "Mr. Feng was generous enough to leave all his appliances here," Sofia mentioned while glancing around.


    "Miss Sofia, do you need help to recruit people?" Jing Jing asked.


    "If sister Jing can help me, I need a few people for the housekeeping job. There are already employees that I hired for the dining and security," Sofia admitted.


    "Okay. Leave it to me, I will find good employees. By the way, have your endorsements started shooting?" Jing Jing inquired.


    "From which endorsement, sister Jing?" Sofia curiously asked.


    "Ohh, so, it''s not yet finalized. There was a company of swimwear that offered a good budget. I''ve seen it before I was fired by boss Wang. Maybe Ms. Yen would contact you today about it," Jing Jing commented.


    "We won''t endorse swimwear products," Sofia coldly stated.


    "Why not?" Jing Jing questioned.


    "Sister Jing, beauty figure is very subjective. While others agree with our looks, there are also people who would criticize us. Criticisms towards personal flaws is not good. I am not against this kind of flashy products. There is nothing wrong with modeling too. But, in my opinion, this is not the right time for my squad members to capitalize on our physical appearance just to gain money or publicity. I have ways to earn more," Sofia answered.


    "But, the company might not give you a choice. After all, you signed the exclusive contract?" Jing Jing reminded Sofia of the arrangement that they once agreed.


    "Hehe, I made sure that I have something to say, sister Jing. And they should honor the decision of my squad. There is a clause in the contract that we signed before," Sofia smiled confidently. She then brushed her hair gently as they headed to the exit door of the building.


    "There is a clause in the contract? What clause was it? Let me see," Jing Jing spoke and switched on her phone. She still had the soft copy of their very first contract that was signed before the tournament.


    Jing Jing scrolled down and searched for the contract. After few breaths, she finally saw the file.


    Sofia peered at the screen of her phone and she pointed the clause. "Here. Sister Jing, this is stipulated in the exclusive press contract. The squad leader''s decision must be taken into account for the greater interest of the members of the Chronos squad."


    "Oh, that''s good," Jing Jing subconsciously spoke.


    "Hmmn, it is so-so. I made sure to place those conditions before," Sofia grinned.


    "People may assume that they can trick you because of your age. But they are just actually seven steps behind you," Jing Jing snickered.


    "Sister Jing, that is exaggerated. I''m not that advanced! I just think that it is important to place the terms so that my squad won''t be exploited. It''s for the security of our public identity," Sofia said in a modest tone.


    "I am worried that they will force you to endorse other companies with bad reputations. But now, I guess, you already had a prior idea of how the corporate world works," Jing Jing stated.


    "There are four futures that I am leading, sister Jing. If I don''t protect our image, our future might become messy," Sofia answered while the image of the four members of the Chronos squad appeared in her mind.


    "I wish you get all your goals," Jing Jing whispered.. They soon locked the place and started walking to the parking space.

 Chapter 172 - Sofias Gratitude To Jing Jing

    "Sister Jing, I''m truly grateful for your help," Sofia spoke, her expression was full of sincerity and warmth. She tilted her head and gazed at the clear blue sky. Suddenly, her mind wandered back in the fragments of memories, remembering Jing Jing''s contributions during her past and present life.


    The woman in the past and this lady that was standing in beside her had showed the same amount of dedication and hard work.


    On the other hand, Jing Jing''s steps froze and her feet completely halted as she gaped at Sofia. Surely, she had heard Sofia expressing her gratitude earlier, it was before they settled the acquisition of the property.


    However, there was something about the way she spoke her words that moved Jing Jing''s heart just now. She felt that this gratitude is exaggerated.


    "Why are you thanking me again?" Jing Jing casually chuckled. It never occured to her the emotions that swelled in Sofia''s heart.


    "You deserve my gratitude. Without you, things would be very difficult," Sofia stated. Whether the past or present Jing Jing, it was evident that her goals were attained because of the lady''s assistance.


    "You''ve already said thank you to me," Jing Jing managed to spoke. It was strange how Sofia''s words had a very different impact.


    "Hehe, I did. But, still thank you for everything! I appreciate all your cooperation! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" Sofia stated stubbornly. She even purposely repeated it three times again.


    "Hahaha, okay, okay," Jing Jing waved her hand and brushed the side of her hair.


    The morning sun had already risen and the February temperature in their district was starting to bite their skin. Jing Jing pulled an umbrella from her bag and shared it with Sofia.


    "In my lifetime, I have never meet a person so dedicated to do things that is beyond their age. Your character aspires me. Besides, it is my duty to assist you. Just tell me what you need, I''ll definitely extend a mile for you," Jing Jing responded as they continued walking.


    Sofia did not speak anymore. She had heard so many praises in the past but none of them really reached the depth of her emotions. But now, someone was actually telling her that her character was their aspiration. It was perhaps the only compliment that she acknowledged after waking up with a new life.


    Her mind continued to replay all the scenes in her past life with Jing Jing. Their business meetings, out-of-town company travel for both expansions and inspections, and most importantly, the day she died. Her memory was blurry but, for some unknown reason, she could picture out those events.


    Meanwhile, Jing Jing fished out the car key from her bag. She then unlocked the door of her car using the keys and pulled the door handle to the passenger''s side, letting Sofia entered the vehicle first.


    "By the way, Sofia... Congratulations on this new acquisition! Congratulations to your squad! Do you want to celebrate?" Jing Jing asked after she sat on the driver''s side.


    Indeed, it was an occasion worthy to be celebrated. But, because this was a common occurrence in Sofia''s previous life, she didn''t think much of it. Her mind was already focused on how they would renovate and operate this place. The matter of celebration had really slipped on her mind.


    With Jing Jing''s reminder, Sofia seemed to have realized this too. "AH! Yes, we will celebrate. Sister Jing, if you are not busy, come to my place tonight?" she quickly invited Jing Jing.


    "Sure! I''ll come by. Where are you heading now? I will take you there," Jing Jing nodded and smiled before she started driving down the road.


    "I''m going back to my apartment," Sofia answered.


    "Okay! To your apartment then," Jing Jing held the steering wheel tightly and stepped on the gas. She then made a left turn on the corner and drove in silence. A soft music was playing in the car.


    After some time, Sofia glanced at the few people on the side of the road. She started to imagine the streets of their district bustling even during an ordinary day. Then, Sofia closed her eyes and before she knew it, she had fallen asleep.


    Jing Jing focused her attention on the road. But, after a while, she noticed in her peripheral vision that Sofia''s sitting position had changed. This time, her body was leaning to the side of the door.


    Sofia''s posture had always been perfect. Either the way she stand straight or takes a sit.


    When the traffic light turned red, Jing Jing briefly looked at Sofia''s side, only to see the girl sleeping soundlessly.


    Jing Jing curled her lips and decelerated her driving speed to make sure that Sofia''s rest won''t be disturb.


    "Just what kind of parents do you have to be able to raise this kind of character?" Jing Jing whispered out of curiosity. In her mind, only Sofia''s childhood must have influenced her to be a goal-oriented despite the young age.


    When they arrived at Sofia''s place, Jing Jing contemplated whether she should wake her up or not. She extended her hand and planned to nudge Sofia, yet, the young lady already opened her eyes before Jing Jing could reach her side.


    "We are here," Jing Jing announced and retracted her hand.


    "Oh," Sofia hummed and looked around the place. "I''ve fell asleep. That''s so rude of me. Sorry, sister Jing! It''s not my intention to doze off," she expressed in panic. Jing Jing was not her driver and the car was not even her. It could be seen as disrespect that she just fall asleep while the owner of the car was driving her.


    "AHAHA, you think too much. No need to apologize. Get some rest once you arrive in your place, okay?" Jing Jing laughed seeing the sudden changes in Sofia''s expression.


    "I don''t know why I felt asleep. I''m not that drowsy, " Sofia scratched her head and pouted her lips. She then looked at the back of the car before pulling the door open.


    "You might assume that you are not drowsy, but, your eyes really look tired. After all, you are still young, you need plenty of rest. And reading the contract of the deal earlier may have exhausted you," Jing Jing thoughtfully commented. Even up until now, she considered this ability of Sofia to execute a contract on her own as a rare talent. Perhaps, her soul is really meant to be in business world.


    "That could be the reason," Sofia agreed. "See you tonight, sister Jing!"


    "See you! I''ll bring some food," Jing Jing responded while watching Sofia slipped out of her car and walked towards her apartment.


    ''This girl just spent over a million of money to buy the property. Yet, I have never seen any changes in her attitude,'' Jing Jing thought.


    She knew better than anyone else that the money they used to pay on Mr. Feng was the prize money of the district tournament. But, it was not enough. Sofia, also asked her to loan to the bank an amount that she had never imagined she would do. The loan was under her name but Sofia promised her that she would give Jing Jing 5% of her share in the business.


    Sofia suddenly felt multiple vibrations on her phone. When she looked at the screen, there were two messages from unknown numbers reflecting on it.


    "Ahh, the essay contest," Sofia murmured the moment she read the message. It was a reminder from her classroom teacher about the academic competition. The second message from a different number was still sent from the same teacher, and the content was the schedule of the event.


    Just as Sofia was about to put her phone away, another notification appeared on her screen. It was a new message in her email. Her fingers quickly tapped the notification button and read the message.


    Sofia muttered as she read the title of the message, "E-Sports Official Invitation to Join Regional Tournament." Her feet continued to walk towards the direction of her apartment unit as she skimmed the full information.


    The full update of the game was advertised the same time as the invitation was sent to the potential participants of the tournament. Every player that held the title of being a squad leader also received the notification for the regional tournament.


    "I should analyze and create tactics for this regional tournament," Sofia mumbled after arriving to her unit. She then open open her laptop while anxiously thinking about the ban mode. At first, she planned to take a nap. But with this announcement, she had completely forgotten her plan to rest.


    In the virtual gaming community of the district 7, various speculations emerged following this latest version of the game. Players immediately discussed their views of the recent updates. Some characters were modified in terms of damage and resistance.


    Sofia browsed to several forums to see if there would be information about a summoner gameplay. But minutes had turned into hours, yet, there was no substantial data that she was able to gather.


    "Is it hard to play summoner that no players used this role in the game?" she mumbled with a sigh.

 Chapter 173 - [Bonus ]Purchasing Celebratory Cake

    After dropping Sofia in her apartment, Jing Jing decided to buy a cake for their planned celebration. She made a quick detour and stop on a residential house along the empty street. The house has a balcony facing the turnstile gate. But it was the situation a few meters away from where Jing Jing stood.


    On the gate was a modest sign of Carmella Cakes written in a small poster.


    Jing Jing stepped out of her car and saw that there were two elder people, both husband, and wife, sitting cozily on the balcony. She waved her hand to them and gave a friendly smile.


    "We have a customer," the wife announced and went to greet Jing Jing who just stood outside the gate. Her pace was fast despite her old age and quickly faced the woman.


    "Hi, ma''am! I want to order a cake for tonight," Jing Jing stated as she recognized that it was the owner who greeted her.


    In their district, there was only one establishment that sells baked goods. Even convenience stores would ask them for supplies of their products.


    The Carmela Cakes was distinguished by its delicious sweets. At first, they started to produce one product alone. But now, they have expanded to the point of hosting and catering events.


    Jing Jing secretly prayed that the woman could bake for her.


    "Hi, Miss Jing Jing! Yes, I have no orders to bake right now. I am just idling with my husband. Hehe, What time do you need the cake?" the woman inquired.


    "Oh, Miss Jing Jing is here!" the man expressed as he followed behind his wife.


    "Hello, sir! It''s good to see you!" Jing Jing grinned at the man. The elder man was her teacher but now, he had already retired.


    "Is it your birthday?" the man wondered.


    "Haha, no, sir! It''s for a celebration of my--- new boss," Jing Jing responded. She contemplated how to introduce Sofia to other people but realized that it would be easier to call her the new boss.


    "I see. Then, come inside so you can pick the design of the cake," the man invited her.


    "Okay. Thank you, sir!" Jing Jing bowed her head slightly before she pushed the gate open.


    "So, you have a new boss? Eh, is it your boss'' birthday?" the woman asked as the two of them guided Jing Jing to sit on the other chair of the balcony. Then, she gave Jing Jing a brochure for her to choose the cake design.


    "Not a birthday, ma''am. It''s a different occasion,"  Jing Jing answered as she started browsing the pictures of the cakes.


    "Oh, a different occasion. I see," the woman mumbled while watching her flipping casually on every page of the brochure.


    "Uh-uh. This one, ma''am." Jing Jing stated while her slender was pointing at the peach and orchid cake design.


    In the brochure, it was a two-layered cake with an exquisite design. It was covered in a refreshing shade of light pink and complimented with beautiful hints of gold and fresh white orchids elegantly adorned down the sides of the cake.


    "Okay, which flavor do you want to use?" the woman asked.


    "Uhmm, I think the chocolate flavor is fine. I will pay now and have the cake delivered?" Jing Jing answered. Since her place was far from this house, she decided to deliver the product.


    The woman shook her head and gave her an order receipt. "Our delivery cannot cater this, Miss Jing Jing. The driver and other staff are visiting a venue to prepare for a wedding event."


    "Someone is getting married? Which family is it ma''am?" Jing Jing inquired, her face reflected deep curiosity. She found it rare that all the staff of the Carmela Cakes are so hands-on.


    "Aiyoo, this wedding event is big. The one who asked us to prepare the venue is the young master of the Lee Family. He is marrying the mayor''s daughter," the husband responded before his wife could speak.


    "Ohh, that richest family in our district. That is indeed big," Jing Jing casually commented. Even though the Lee family is wealthy, the media did not dare follow their daily life. She was not also too mindful of the affairs of the Lee family, so, she could only express her current thoughts.


    "They have not announced their wedding in public, so I ask Miss Jing Jing to keep it a secret," the woman thoughtfully said,


    "Ahaha, yes, I am no longer working in the media, ma''am. And the Lee family cannot be offended," Jing Jing giggled while handing the payment to her.


    "Hehe, then Miss Jing Jing, I won''t see you in the television anymore?" the husband inquired.


    "Hmmm, that depends, sir! My new boss is also a public figure. Maybe, you can still see me but I won''t be the one reporting anymore. Haha," Jing Jing slightly laughed.


    "I see. Do you plan to settle down now? Who is the lucky man?" the woman questioned. In her mind, if Jing Jing who had a flourishing career in the press industry would quit, the only reason was to focus on her romantic life.


    "No, no, no," Jing Jing quickly responded. The questioned had really caught her off guard. "I just found another work, ma''am."


    The husband and wife stared at her before they looked at each other. They seemed to share a look that only the two of them could comprehend. Jing Jing forced a smile with a helpless expression on her face.


    "Then, I will take my leave. I will get the cake at around 6 PM, ma''am!" Jing Jing announced and quickly sprinted away before the two elders could speak another word to her.


    "HAHAHA... Most young people today seemed to have lost interest in making a family. Look at Miss Jing Jing, she was so scared that she directly left!" the woman joked while watching Jing Jing entering her car.


    "Hehe, that''s true. But, this wedding of the Lee family may change the course of the politics in our district," the husband commented.


    "They are very private people. I don''t think they will be interested in politics," the woman expressed.


    "We don''t know. Changes are inevitable.. The old master of the Lee family hated the politics and only wants to engage in business trade but, the young master may be interested in these aspects?" the husband speculated.

 Chapter 174 - An Aggressive Gameplay Advice

    That afternoon, Sofia''s usual quiet place was filled with the noise of her members. After their class, she instructed them to practice playing the ban mode.


    Claire and Joey were the most energetic among the four. Clark could only gasp his reactions while playing. Stephen, on the other hand, was completely silent.


    "Hahaha, Retreat! No mana! Don''t push Clark. Wait for me," Claire said while her assassin character started to teleport back in their base.


    "Back! Back! Back! My skills are still in cool down!" Joey also announced with full of enthusiasm.


    Jing Jing reached into Sofia''s apartment unit and could hear the teens playing inside. The door of the apartment was opened widely and saw the four members of the Chronos squad sitting around the mini table.


    "Hi, guys! I came early!" Jing Jing called from the outside.


    In an instant, the four members looked up and smiled at her. But, they also returned to focus on the game quickly.


    "Miss Jing Jing, hi! Sofia informed us about the celebration for tonight. But, her class will be finished at 8:30 PM. So, we are just practicing the game right now," Claire stated while her eyes were looking at the map of the game.


    Jing Jing nodded but she hesitated to get inside.


    "Miss Jing Jing, please, come in and feel at home. Although the owner is not yet here. So sorry, we are in the middle of a match," Joey mumbled.


    "It''s okay. You guys continue what you are doing. I have nothing better to do at home. So, I came here early," Jing Jing responded. Sofia had indeed told her about the night class schedule, but because of her excitement for the celebration, she ended up going out early.


    "Oh, you brought a cake! Nice! Nice!" Claire expressed the second time she looked up at Jing Jing.


    "Yes! Congratulations!" Jing Jing answered. She then placed the box containing the cake in the center of the mini table.


    "Wow! That is a beautiful cake! Thank you so much!" Jing Jing expressed when she took a peek at the box.


    "There is a spare chair in Sofia''s bedroom, Miss Jing Jing. Wait, I''ll get it for you!" Stephen spoke and left the group. He expertly multi-tasked from walking towards Sofia''s bedroom while both his hands were holding the mobile phone, maneuvering his virtual character to simultaneously deliver series of attacks to their opponent.


    "Okay, ATTACK!!! PUSH!!!" Stephen loudly said when he got inside the room. Then, he emerged with his body pushing the chair.


    "Don''t back down, my ultimate is ready!" Clark announced too,


    "Wait, wait, the enemy is missing. This might be an ambush!" Joey made a guess.


    Jing Jing looked at the group helplessly. She found herself lost in words while watching them fully immersed in the game, but at the same time, acknowledging her arrival.


    "Thanks! I''m just going to watch you guys," she said and grabbed the chair that Stephen was pushing towards her.


    "Miss Jing Jing, we will finish this match soon," Clark appealed feeling a little guilty of their actions. But they had no choice for there was no option to pause the game.


    "It''s really okay. You don''t need to rush. Hehe, I will busy myself here," Jing Jing stated as she continued to listen to the group.


    "Miss Jing Jing, come and see my gameplay! Hehe, I am the assassin of the team," Claire cheered and moved her hand to give Jing Jing easy access to see her mobile screen.


    Jing Jing nodded and smiled widely.


    "Oh, okay, which one are you? I have played a similar game of 5 vs 5 in the pc. So, I have a bit of understanding of the game too," Jing Jing told them.


    Claire made a circular movement of her left thumb on the screen and her assassin character also turned around. "See that?" she asked.


    "Yes, so you are hiding in the grass. Oh, you are going to ambush that character woman? Is that also an assassin?" Jing Jing expressed asking Claire for some details about the role. On the screen, there was a sexy mage that Claire was about to ambush.


    "No, this one is not an assassin. It is our opponent''s mage and its power is to summon ice and freeze its enemy. I am just waiting for her to come out of their tower''s range of defense. It will be very dangerous if I froze within their tower. Its damage is too high!" Claire explained.


    "I think she knew that you are waiting for her to ambush. How about you attack in the back area? Just move around this wall," Jing Jing casually suggested.


    Since the sexy female character stayed behind the defensive tower, Jing Jing somehow understood that the enemy was relying on the damage of the tower. Thus, it was indeed much easy for Claire if she would deliver an ambush from the backside of the enemy.


    "Ms, Jing Jing, your strategy is too aggressive! I like that!" Claire expressed and quickly followed the suggestion. She activated her invisibility and went to another grass.


    "AHAHA, is it? Maybe a little bit aggressive," Jing Jing agreed. "However, back then when I still played the pc game, this kind of strategy is very common. You are the assassin, so, you have to give an impression to your opponents that no place on the map is safe. Give them some psychological fear," she thoughtfully added.


    Every member of the Chronos squad seemed to make a pause for a few seconds. Jing Jing''s advice was not only beyond their expectation, but it was also brutal. To inflict a psychological fear on your opponent, one must be an expert.


    "Oh, so you play this online game too! Wow! No wonder, you told me that strategy" Claire chuckled.


    "It was just for fun. I am not famous or expert of the game," Jing Jing stated.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, do you want to play?" Claire suddenly offered. She was completely amazed by Jing Jing''s words that she almost wanted to see how Jing Jing''s gameplay would be if she really use her character.


    "HAHA, no, I am not familiar with the characters of this game. And it''s been so long since I played online games," Jing Jing immediately refused.


    "Okay, I won''t force you to play this match. But, can you play one match with us after this?" Claire asked.


    "I don''t have an account for this game," Jing Jing slightly laughed.


    "But, your gameplay would be something that will definitely develop our skills. It is rare to hear from someone the idea that you just told us," Claire insisted. She suddenly had the urged to learn from Jing Jing.


    "Hahaha, you have too much faith in my gameplay. But, in fact, I have already seen that idea in your last match during the tournament. You are scary alone as an assassin. And your enemies were also scared when you gank and clash at them," Jing Jing expressed.


    "I did not realize that we have reached that kind of level as a gamer. We still have so much to learn," Claire replied.


    "Yes. Especially me. I am just an amateur in this game," Clark joined their conversation.


    "The room for improvement will always be open to those who are willing to enhance their skills. Don''t worry. Even if you guys are not yet at that level, you will still reach that level soon. Just continue to improve," Jing Jing encouraged them.


    "Hehe, I agree to that! We needed to improve. It''s because the regional tournament of the game was officially announced. And there is a newly released mode on the battlefield, so, we have to practice more," Stephen initiated an explanation to justify their actions.


    "And we have to divide our time. The schoolwork, the tournament, and also the business," Claire added while pouting her lips.


    "That is impressive! I''m sure you can reach all your goals! You are a group of brilliant teens. Your future is already bright!" Jing Jing stated.


    "Nah, we are just shadows of Sofia. Hehehe, whatever she tells us, we will follow," Joey playfully said.


    At the same time, they were facing an intense and chaotic clash. Jing Jing looked at the four of them as their thumbs pressed the screen of their phones in swift movements.


    Her eyes shifted to Claire''s phone and saw that only one opponent was able to survive in the clash. But the group was still trying to catch the enemy as they ran after their target.


    "Don''t let that opponent escape," Jing Jing blurted after seeing that the surviving opponent had almost arrived at their base.


    "I got it, I got it," Stephen yelled again while his character sprinted. Then, he fired a series of attacks until the opponent died in his hand.


    "HAHAHAHA, I caught her!"


    "YES! Victory!"


    "Still easy!"


    Their series of laughter floated in the air, hinting that their match was already finished.


    "Good game!" Claire announced before keeping her phone away.. She then twisted her neck side to side and stretched her hands in the air to relax her entire body.

 Chapter 175 - [Bonus ]Jing Jing Agreed To Play

    "Ms. Jing Jing, you have a potential to play this game! Why not try to download the app and play? I think you will do great!" Claire muttered. She gave the lady a bright smile and blinked a few times as if hinting that she should agree with her words.


    "The strategy that you said is really something. Miss Jing Jing, join our squad?" Clark followed.


    "HAHAHA, thank you for the offer! But my time with playing online games had already passed and my interest has changed now. I am happy to see you guys enjoying the game," Jing Jing replied curtly.


    "If you do not want to play in the official tournament games, that is fine. Just casual matches then... it''s for fun... is okay," Joey suggested.


    Stephen remained silent. He easily went to look for Sofia''s charger like the apartment unit was his own place too.


    After a while, he saw the object that he was looking at, dangled by some pin in the wall. He quickly charged his phone and return to his seat.


    Meanwhile, the other three members of the Chronos squad gave Jing Jing a pleading look that was too hard to resist. They really wanted her to play along with them. In the end, Jing Jing released a sigh and agreed to them.


    "Okay, I will download the game. Actually, when this was released, I have this on my phone. But, because of my career, I also removed it," Jing Jing spoke and managed to press few buttons on her phone. Then, the status bar appeared that gave her the progress of the download percentage.


    "Yey! I personally want to learn from you, Ms. Jing Jing! Come play with me after you download all the resources!" Claire exclaimed in excitement while peering at Jing Jing''s phone.


    "I''m not an expert in the game," Jing Jing scratched her head and gave them a warry smile. For some reason, her advice earlier really made a deep impression on these teens. Now, they even convinced her to play!


    "Ms. Jing Jing, you are so modest! Your advice is an expert level," Clark commented.


    "No, no, it was common gameplay in pc games that I played before. I just remembered some of it. But, I am not sure if all of the strategies that I learned on pc games are applicable in mobile games," Jing Jing stated and forced a smile.


    They continued to talk with no awkwardness at all. Jing Jing shared with them what she had done in her younger years...


    By the time Sofia finished her night class and returned to her apartment, she saw the group sharing giggles and waves of laughter in her living room.


    Sofia paused and just gazed at the happy figures sitting on her couch. A small smile also appeared on her lips while looking at them.


    "Guys, I''m back! Sister Jing, glad you came!" Sofia expressed and made her presence known. Her hands carried the plastic bags full of take-out food.


    Stephen and Joey quickly moved their feet and took the plastic bags in Sofia''s hands and put them on the dining table.


    "Welcome back!" all of Sofia''s guests said at the same time. Then they looked at one another before they burst into laughter once more.


    Sofia nodded her head and also burst into giggles. It sounded like they had rehearsed just to welcome Sofia in her place.


    "How''s your class, Miss Sofia?" Jing Jing casually asked while watching her close the door behind.


    "It''s uneventful. I''m requested by our teacher to join in the academic tournament under the essay contest," Sofia easily responded.


    "Essay contest?" Claire paused and repeated. Her tone somehow sounded like she was asking another question: ''Can you do it?''


    "Yes, it''s the essay contest. The venue of the contest is just on our school grounds," Sofia replied oblivious of Claire''s sudden change of expression.


    "Miss Sofia, you are so amazing! You are so young but the way you manage your time is so admirable! How are you able to handle everything that going on in your life?! I want to know so I can learn from you!" Jing Jing stated in deep admiration.


    Upon hearing this compliment, one word came to Sofia''s mind: Transmigration. If it was not that she had retained her past memories and experiences, she may not be this confident in her new life. But she would never dare tell the people in front of her about it. She decided that it''s a secret that she would be bringing in her afterlife.


    Instead, she just gave them a wide grin while avoiding their eyes. She moved her feet towards her bedroom.


    "I do these things one at a time so that I won''t be overwhelmed," she responded.


    On the other hand, Claire gave her a suspicious look. "Can you write an essay for the contest?"


    Claire knew that the original Sofia was not even mindful of proper punctuation when writing. How could she even participate in an essay contest?


    "Now, I learned to improve my writing and our teacher praise my essay. So, she decided to make me the representative of the night class," Sofia carefully replied.


    Since when did you have the time to learn to write?! You are always playing a game with us or doing errands!


    The timeline was very suspicious that Claire raised one of her eyebrows to Sofia.  "How did you improve?"


    "HAHAHA, I think it''s not really improving. Maybe we have no other representative. So, my teacher picked me instead," Sofia reasoned. Leave it to her close friend to be so observant in her life. Now, she was struggling to give an alibi to get out with the changes in her attitude and personality.


    Upon sensing that there was a disbelief in Claire''s tone, Jing Jing also came to Sofia''s rescue.


    "Sofia is a brilliant leader! If you only knew how awesome your squad leader is. This essay contest is just a piece of cake for her. She can even make legal contracts. That is very impressive!"


    Jing Jing did not read the situation well. But her praises were actually adding fuel to the fire. Now, Claire crossed her hands on her chest and leaned back. Her silence conveys a deep meaning that made Sofia felt almost guilty for lying to them. But, what can she do? She was also helpless when it comes to her overall situation!


    "HAHA, it''s nothing. I just learned some skills from watching online tutorials and reading," Sofia awkwardly spoke. Then her line of vision went to the box that was settled on the mini table.


    Jing Jing also noticed that Sofia was staring at the cake. "I brought it on my way. I figured that our celebration would be complete with the perfect dessert!"


    "AH! Thank you, sister Jing! You are so thoughtful, as always!" Sofia exclaimed. She then bent her body and slowly examined the cake.


    "Are those real orchids?" she asked referring to the design that was placed on the top side of the cake. It was her subtle attempt to divert the subject of their conversation.


    "It''s not. That''s an icing that was hardened to form the orchid flower. Carmella Cakes is really a top-notch maker of this kind of product," Jing Jing expressed.


    "What is the flavor of the cake?" Sofia questioned again. Her eyes were completely glued to the dessert. The beauty of the design from the flowers to its texture was indeed so much appealing that she just want to have it as a decoration than eat them.


    The other members of the Chronos squad were not so much keen on details. In their mind, as long as it''s cake, they will eat it. But the topic of their discussion somehow shifted to the cake. Sofia secretly thanked the product.


    "That''s chocolate," Jing Jing answered.


    "Let me borrow your charger, Clark!" Joey asked on the other side while looking at his phone.


    "I did not bring any charger," Clark responded.


    "Just use mine," Sofia suggested as she was about to go to her bedroom.


    "I''ve already used your charger, Sof," Stephen said and eyed his phone that was connected to the outlet.


    "Ohh, okay," Sofia hummed and glanced at Claire.


    "Here, use my charger, we have the same charging pin right?" Jing Jing quickly asserted while giving Joey the white cords.


    "Yes, this is perfect! Thank you, Ms. Jing Jing!" Joey spoke and plugged the charger and placed his phone next to Stephen''s device.


    "Okay, let''s celebrate! Ahh, we can''t use candles because there is a smoke detector in this unit," Sofia said.


    "It''s okay! It''s better to be safe," Jing Jing stated.


    Soon, they distributed the take-out food that Sofia brought. The meals were already packed individually and there were enough disposable spoons and fork together with other condiments along with it.


    "Okay, so this is to celebrate the beginning of our success! To the business ventures and the regional tournament and for the future endeavors of our team! Let''s do our best! Let''s eat!" Sofia announced.


    Jing Jing subconsciously clapped her hand and the other members followed her.


    ''Success for the future endeavors of the Chronos Squad,'' she mentally repeated.

 Chapter 176 - Dinner And Friendly Teasing

    "By the way, Sof, we are done with the things that you asked us to research, --- Wow! AH! So spicy!" Clark mentioned while they started eating. He hissed and fanned his lips instantly the moment he tasted the spiciness of the food.


    The group was having a proper meal of baby back ribs and steak with vegetable salad on the side. Sofia included a bucket of spicy chicken and there were two bowls of beef stew that they shared.


    Claire quickly grabbed a glass and passed it to Clark. "Here, drink water!"


    "AHHH- thanks!" Clark mumbled.


    "Do you have allergies to spicy foods?" Sofia instantly asked.


    "No, I have no allergies. Just that my tolerance of spicy food is not that strong today," Clark admitted after drinking the entire glass of water.


    Sofia heaved a sigh of relief. "What do you mean today? Do tolerance that involves sense of taste have a schedule? Like you can eat spicy today, tomorrow, you can''t?"


    "AHAHA, don''t worry, Sof, I''m fine now," Clark stated.


    "That''s great! That''s great!" Sofia repeated. The time she ordered their food, she did not put into consideration any allergies. Thus, when Clark reacted to the spicy chicken, she slightly panicked.


    "It''s not that spicy," Claire muttered after taking a bite of the chicken.


    "It is spicy!" Clark insisted.


    "Try the ribs, its sauce is sweet," Sofia suggested.


    "Yeah, it''s delicious! Anyway, as I was saying, we have finished checking all designs. What do we do next?" Clark repeated.


    "Oh, that''s perfect! Well done, guys! On Saturday, let''s start remodeling the building. I''ve asked Grace to help us with the processing of our legal documents and taxes," Sofia stated. In fact, it was part of their arrangement before she agreed to introduce Grace to Brent.


    Even though no one except Jing Jing really understood what she meant to say, they still nodded in agreement while chewing their food.


    "I will help you remodel," Jing Jing offered.


    "AH! Sister Jing, we cannot afford to pay you for Saturdays. We are fine," Sofia quickly said.


    "Silly, I am not asking for any payment. Just consider me as hanging around. I might bring my two friends too," Jing Jing said.


    "Oh, then, they say to refuse is an insult. So, I will not refuse your offer if it''s free," Sofia chuckled.


    "HAHAHA, I''ve never heard of that principle before," Jing Jing laughed loudly.


    "Eh, by the way, I have an important question for you Sof," Clark suddenly said. His expression suddenly turned serious.


    "Important question? Go ahead!" Sofia curiously responded.


    "Ehem! Are you---" Clark made a dramatic pause and glanced at Stephen before he continued, "---and Stephen a couple?"


    "Oh! I also want to know!" Joey exclaimed.


    "Hehe, I''m just curious. And don''t deny it. The internet has a lot of pictures of you together. And it''s a great picture that some netizens formed a fans club with the two of you. Claire and I had not even got that kind of fans club!" Clark stated. His last statement was just a playful remark as he pretended to be upset.


    However, Claire, who was about to take another bite of the chicken, was instantly frozen. Then, she carefully place the spoon on her plate and stared at Clark for a long time. Everyone also snapped in Clark''s direction.


    "You what?" Claire looked at Clark in wide eyes. Her expression conveyed a deep surprise.


    "Hahaha, Ehem!" Clark gently patted Claire''s shoulder. "D-don''t be surprised. I am just saying it," Clark stammered.


    "I did not know that you pay much attention to fans club matter, Clark! The only time that I followed the activities in the social media was with that streamer who challenged me for one on one!" Sofia also exclaimed to tease Clark.


    "Okay, I can sense that you guys will make fun of me. Let''s just eat. I am starting to feel so embarrassed right now," Clark expressed while shaking his head. Somehow, he slightly regretted opening the topic about them.


    "There''s nothing wrong with wanting a fans club, bro! Don''t worry! I will make a fans club page for the two of you! Hehehe, I will make sure to post sweet pictures of you and Claire," Joey grinned and winked at him.


    "Oh my gosh! Don''t tease him like that, Joey!" Claire said with a pleading tone. But she also burst with giggles after speaking. She noticed the change of complexion in Clark''s face and ears and could not help but feel sympathetic.


    "Oh, what tease? I am not playing here. I''m serious! And I will really be creating your fans club after I finished my food. Since I''m the only single here, I might as well be the supporter! What name do you want?" Joey presented.


    On the side, Jing Jing silently observed the teens. Their expression really conveyed the liveliness of the youth. In moments like this, if anyone would see them, no one could tell that these teens had already set their goals in business. They just looked so innocent!


    "Ms. Jing Jing, why don''t you give us the suggestion of their fans club name? I know that this is your expertise because you are in the press business!" Joey stated while looking at Jing Jing.


    "No, don''t listen to Joey, Ms. Jing Jing! He is just making fun of us!" Claire followed and blocked Joey''s line of sight using her hand.


    "Haha, I am not making fun of you! Come, get off your hands, Claire. I wanna know Ms. Jing Jing''s idea about the appropriate name of your fans club," Joey refuted and smacked Claire''s hand in the process.


    "Guys, you are so lively. I wish you continue to be like this as you grow up. As for their couple name, let''s just ask Clark for it," Jing Jing said. Since Clark was the one who expressed his interest, then, he must have picked a name for a fan club.


    This time, Clark felt like he was in the hot seat. His ears turned into a full shade of red. He could also feel the burning sensation on his cheeks.


    "Claire has not agreed to be officially my girlfriend. And it''s just been a few days since I asked her," he softly muttered.


    "Not all fans club are real couples!" Sofia responded.


    "What are you two prolonging the start of your relationship? Could it be that you doubt Clark''s intention to you, Claire?" Joey teased while looking at Claire.


    "Joey, why are you pressuring them? Why don''t you get your own girlfriend instead? This time, a serious relationship!" Stephen commented while raising his eyebrows several times.


    "Eh? And how about you and Sofia? Let''s go back to your status? Are you two together?" Joey retorted taunting Stephen to speak more.

 Chapter 177 - [Bonus ] Dinner Celebration And Discussions (1)

    "Since when did you start gossiping? Mind your own relationship! Why are you interested to know about Sofia and me, anyway?" Stephen asked while giving a ridiculous look at Joey.


    "Okay, okay, that''s enough. Teenagers must enjoy life to the fullest. Let''s build an unforgettable memories together as a team so that when we get old, we will look back and think of the happy memories of our youth," Sofia stated. She casually distributed the two left spicy chicken wings to Claire and Jing Jing.


    "Just now, you sounded like my aunt, Sof!" Claire exclaimed after hearing what Sofia had advised them.


    "HAHAHA, better ponder my words of wisdom," Sofia casually laughed.


    "What are we going to discuss if not your relationship status? Could it be that you are hiding things from us?" Joey pouted.


    "AHH, if you want to talk over food then, let''s talk about the regional tournament and ban mode update. What are your ideas on it?" Sofia finally raised her hand to gesture open a new topic of discussion. She sensed that any minute from now and the friendly teasing might escalate to a real argument.


    At first, she wanted to discuss this matter some other time. But, since her member wanted to talk, she just conveniently converted their celebration into a brief meeting.


    The table went silent for a few minutes while the members started to draft their opinions of the recent game update.


    "I think it''s cool and fun!" Clark responded before any of them could speak.


    "Yeah, I agree that banning a character is cool. This means that the players will be forced to familiarize other characters of the game," Sofia agreed.


    "Like you, Sof?" Claire stated while looking in her direction.


    Sofia''s shoulder vibrated as she quietly laughed. She was indeed the person that she was also referring to in her statement.


    "Yes, like me! Now, I am forced to learn other characters in the game, lest, my tank character would get banned, I have other choices" Sofia mumbled.


    "I think the pro players are already starting their preparation for this tournament. We should also prepare, Sof!" Claire said while scoping some soup in the beef stew bowl.


    "Yes, we should start the preparation of the regional tournament. Maybe, we can play two matches every day to practice," Sofia recommended.


    The arrangement of two matches per day may not be enough, but with their plans in business and their studies, it would be hard for them to set up time management if they go beyond two matches daily.


    "The ban mode is very challenging too. In every match, four characters will be ban. Surely, they would ban the characters that can burst damage," Joey also answered. His expression had become relaxed.


    "I actually thought that they would ban only two characters. One for every team," Clark expressed.


    "We have to devise a good strategy. I plan to register our name on the last day of the registration. So that, no one would notice us," Sofia informed them.


    "Why? Is it an advantage for us if the other participants won''t notice our registration?" Joey curiously asked.


    "Yes, it''s an advantage. Most likely, those other pro players will quickly study the gameplay of their potential opponents to create battle tactics. Our tournament had just finished, so, they could easily make a strategy to counter our gameplay, of they will know that we are participating. But, if they don''t notice us, they would not feel anxious and won''t be able to make a preparation against us," Sofia explained in full detail.


    "Ohh, I see. Then, if others would ask us personally if we will join the tournament, we will say that we have not yet decided?" Stephen inquired.


    "Exactly! Leave it to them to wonder about our registration," Sofia answered.


    "Got it!" the four members gave her a thumbs up.


    "I''ve seen some comments in social media about your match against that streamer, Sof," Clark randomly said.


    "Ohh, yeah, I was testing some character during that time," Sofia answered.


    "That''s right! Are you going to use a summoner in the next tournament? That character is practically dead in this game," Clark mumbled, his face reflected that he wanted to say more yet, he was hesitant to speak.


    "HAHAHA, it''s not just dead, other players had buried the summoner character! No one uses that role of the summoner for now, but in the future, who knows? But, words from other pro players before was that this character is trash. It''s useless whether in defense or offense," Joey reported.


    It''s not just dead, that character is already buried!


    "I have checked all forums for possible posts about a summoner and I found nothing! So, I feel that this neglected character deserves to be noticed," Sofia helplessly uttered.


    "I can''t wait for you to convert the trashy summoner to an op main role. We will play along with you Sof," Stephen expressed his support.


    "Thanks! Personally, I don''t think summoner is a trash mage. Maybe, they have not seen its potential. I want to use it, but, our strategy would completely change," Sofia announced.


    In the last championship, it could be perceived that the Chronos squad was utilizing an aggressive strategy against their opponents.


    The strategy involved overall team fights, one that was commonly recognized as macro gaming. For instance, Claire used her assassin and she was extremely knowledgeable in terms of the wall features of the map.


    Thus, during the fight, she can easily navigate to a specific location to either escape or take a kill.


    "What strategy are we going to use?" Joey asked directly.


    "If I can''t tank in the tournament, we will have to rely on split-push," Sofia replied.


    Since Sofia was also using a tank, she was able to absorb all the damage to withstand during the clash. And they were great at ganking too. Split-push meant that every lane must be guarded while they will be push to destroy the opponent''s base.


    "Split-push is not that hard to do. But, during the battle, we must be alert on the map at all times," Claire stated.


    "This is if we have no tank available in the next tournament. But, if my tank character won''t get banned, then, we will stick to ganking and ambush," Sofia said.


    "If you will switch to the summoner character, it would mean that your members would no longer be able to have a shield that could absorb the damage from the opponents. Tank is important," Jing Jing started to join them. She finally finished her food on the plate.


    "Yes, the tank role is equally important. But, Joey can adjust and use his character as Tank - Support role. Can you adjust to this role, Joey? " Sofia asked while glancing at Joey.


    Jing Jing nodded her head several times. Then, she gazed at Sofia for a long time before she asked, "Are you confident to play with no pure tank character in the game?"


    "Yes, I am certain to play the summoner role without pure tank," Sofia replied. At that time, she had already imagined what kind of strategy they would use.


    "As expected of a squad leader! Miss Sofia, I''ve downloaded the game again. I''ll see if I can help you guys devise a strategy for the game," Jing Jing suddenly said.


    "Oh right! Thank you, Miss Jing Jing!" Joey stated.


    "Sof, if you want to use the summoner, it''s not a problem. I can already imagine the shocked faces of our opponents once they saw you using this character!" Claire said as her mind was trying to picture out the expressions of the other participants in the game.


    "HAHA, when the time comes, they will be surprised! Another thing, what if your assassin will be ban, Claire. What would you replace?" Sofia opened up.


    The possibility of Claire''s assassin getting banned was higher than her tank because Claire''s gameplay was too overpowered last time.


    "I managed to master all assassin''s character. If I can''t use the sword user assassin, I will use the one that can transform and morph into a demon," Claire replied with a wide smile.


    "You really analyze all their skills of all the assassin characters and their item build-up? That''s my first time to hear!" Sofia stated.


    "Well, I play random matches regularly. It made me master the other assassin characters in the game," Claire easily replied.


    "Good, good. Then, we are all set," Sofia said.


    "Ehh, how about me? If you will use the summoner mage in the tournament, should I pick another mage?" Clark suddenly asked.


    "Hmm, Clark, it''s better if you explore all the characters first. Then, if you still want to use the mage, it''s okay. We can produce chain stun,"  Sofia said.


    "Ohh... okay!" Clark replied.


    "Guys, your food at the table is getting cold! Go and finish the food first before talking about your strategy," Jing Jing suddenly felt the need to remind them that they are still having dinner.


    "Sister Jing is right! This is supposed to be a celebration.. Now, we have almost formed into a debate and serious discussion! Eat, eat," Sofia generously smiled at them.

 Chapter 178 - [Bonus ] Bridesmaid?!

    "Let''s discuss and come up with a possible strategy tomorrow. Just remember, if anyone would ask if we will participate in the regionals, just tell them that we are still undecided," Sofia emphasized. She held a slicing knife and was about to cut the cake.


    "AHH, Miss Jing Jing, your cake is so nice to see! It''s a waste to cut it," Claire started feeling a little anxious while watching Sofia slicing it.


    "Hahaha, I know right? Carmella Cakes is of the best in this craft. Don''t worry, there will be many more cakes to eat and many more events to celebrate," Jing Jing responded, her tone was full of enthusiasm.


    "That''s right! We will have many more celebrations in the future," Sofia smiled and agreed with Jing Jing''s idea. She then distributed all the sliced cake to her members.


    The group enjoyed every bit of the cake while having random conversations about their school works.


    Jing Jing found it pleasantly surprising to hear how the teens really shifted their focus of the conversation to a different topic. She had never been surrounded by teenagers who had somehow blended their interests and randomly talked about it.


    "Is your school activities hard?" Jing Jing suddenly asked.


    "It is hard, Miss Jing Jing! I am assigned to conduct a report next week," Joey quickly replied without masking his sullen expression.


    "It''s for you to practice your confidence in speaking with a greater audience," Clark told him.


    "No, no, no, my confidence is sufficient," Joey argued.


    "Then, it should not be that hard to do class reporting. In my class, one of our teachers assigned us to create a miniature. The work is kind of extensive," Clark described.


    "Yeah, compare to that output, my reporting is indeed mild," Joey mumbled.


    "I''m catching up with the days that I have been away. But, all of my paper works were already submitted," Stephen muttered.


    "Speaking of school, do you guys want to enroll in an advanced online financial literacy course? It''s an online course every Sunday," Sofia spoke after she remembered that she saw the advertisement for the course in her social media account.


    "Now that you want to start your business, this kind of course is also essential for you to learn. I''m not so interested in this but, I will enroll if you want to enroll, Miss Sofia," Jing Jing stated.


    Sofia blinked a couple of times. With her previous knowledge, there was no need for her to enroll yet, it was necessary so that her group would also indulge in the course.


    "I will enroll! The span of this course is only a month and there are four meetings to comply. That''s every Sunday," Sofia stated.


    "If it''s one month duration, then, we will enroll too! When will this online class start, Sof?" Claire inquired.


    "If we register tomorrow, then we will be included in the master list. It should start this Sunday," Sofia replied. She then picks her phone and checked if the course was still available,


    "Here, it''s still available! I''ll send you the link, then, let''s enroll in this course. We will take the payment in our income last time. Our money is still enough," Sofia told them.


    "This course, are we going to spend the entire Sunday for it?" Joey inquired.


    "According to their schedule, it''s only 2 hours per session. It will start from 1 PM - 3 PM. Learning this course will give us an idea of what to expect and how we manage or allocate our money," Sofia said while reading the details.


    "Cool! Then, let''s do it!" Clark agreed and the rest also nodded their heads in agreement.


    Minutes passed into a blur without even them noticing that the night had grown deeper. The plates on the table had been almost empty. Only the leftovers of bones from the chicken that they ate remained. Claire gathered all the bones and placed them on the disposable container.


    On the side, Clark was carefully watching her movements.


    "Maybe you guys will have a shooting tomorrow for a brand deal. Do you have a vacant time? Just expect it. Sometimes, the announcement is on the spot," Jing Jing suddenly said. She also helped Claire clean the table.


    "That is possible. I will prepare an excuse letter, just in case, they will contact us. But for the brand deals, there is no information that was sent to me yet. I hope it''s what you mentioned to me last time, Sister Jing," Sofia thoughtfully responded.


    "What is the brand?" Clark inquired.


    "Oh, it was only my assumptions. Anyway, just reject it if you don''t like it. Sometimes, the company will really choose the brand that pays higher," Jing Jing stated.


    "Sister Jing assumed that it may be a swimwear brand. Maybe to promote the upcoming summer sale. Do you want to endorse swimwear?" Sofia informed them.


    "We will wear them? I''m not confident about that!" Claire asked while giving Sofia an awkward expression.


    "That could be the arrangement. But let''s wait for tomorrow and deal with it," Sofia sighed.


    "I don''t mind endorsing a swimwear," Joey expressed. Then he glanced at Stephen and asked, "how about you?"


    "Do it yourself if you want! Don''t drag me," Stephen responded dryly.


    "Hahaha, okay!" Joey said while rubbing his stomach. "I''m so full though and I lost my abs and muscle after quitting the varsity team. So, I don''t think I have an appealing body to model this kind of clothing!"


    "Nah, they will just photoshop it. If you are willing to endorse, then, your popularity right now is more than enough to give you the opportunity to endorse this brand. The marketing will do the rest, just give them a nice face," Jing Jing commented.


    "If there is a swimwear endorsement, I will offer your soul to the deal, Joey. We will support you," Sofia eyed Joey and give him an encouraging look.


    "Yes!" Joey said. Then, he dramatically flexed his arms to show off some of his muscles.


    "Now, it''s really almost 11 PM. I have to go and you guys should rest. Let''s eat together again in the future," Jing Jing stated after realizing the time.


    "Sister Jing, thank you for joining and celebrating with us!" Sofia stated and smiled at Jing Jing.


    "Thank you for inviting me too, Miss Sofia! I have to go now. No need to send me off," Jing Jing said and then stood from her seat.


    The group watched as she gathered her bag and sling it on her shoulder. Then, at one glance, Jing Jing waved her hand swiftly went out of the room.


    "Okay, time for me to go! My driver is already waiting outside too," Clark announced as he stood.


    "I''ll see you out," Claire offered and joined Clark.


    "My gosh! Then, Sofia will send Stephen... who will send me out? I am left alone!" Joey suddenly said while giving them a dramatic look,


    "Sofia will rest. Come!" Stephen stated and dragged Joey''s arms before he could speak his playful remarks.


    "See you tomorrow, Sof!" the four of them said and waved goodbye. All of them were wearing a content expression on their faces that reflected in their eyes.


    "Good night, guys! Take care," Sofia responded and walked towards the door. She looked up to see the bright moon and stars scattered in the sky. Then, her eyes went to the retreating figures and watched them until they went away.


    After she closed the door behind her, Sofia stretched her body and yawned. She casually flipped her phone and sent a ''good night'' message to their group chat.


    Just as Sofia checked her inbox again, it suddenly notified a message from Brent.


    Brent: My wedding is on the 25th, this month. Elders already agreed.


    "Why is it so soon? Just a week away?" Sofia mumbled to herself. She was about to type her reply when she received another message. This time, it was from Grace.


    Grace: My father had already cut ties with the prior arrangement of me and Stephen. The wedding is in rush., Brent want to make it happen this 25th. Can I take you as my bridesmaid?


    "You''ve got to be kidding me?!" Sofia exclaimed after reading the last request in Grace''s message.


    Of all the things that she had calculated, she never thought that Grace would ask her to be a bridesmaid! Does the lady had no other candidate to be her bridesmaid?


    Sofia contemplated for a while. This message had completely made her brain hurt. On one side, she wanted to refuse. However, it would also be a good exposure to their business if she accepted such a request. Perhaps, this was Grace''s generosity to give her an opportunity to make her connection wider?


    In the end, she finally manage to type a single word for her response to the request.


    Sofia: Sure!


    After sending her response, she went back to Brent''s message and also gave him a response.


    Sofia: Guess who is the bridesmaid, young master Brent? Hehe


    She waited for them to reply, but there was no more new message notification that prompted from her phone.


    "They probably fall asleep now," she stated and went straight to her bedroom.

 Chapter 179 - [Bonus ] Sofias Skills Of Provoking

    The next day, Ms. Yen, the representative of the exclusive press that would handle the Chronos Squad''s brand deal felt light-headed as she saw the budget that was forwarded for the summer campaign of a swimwear company.


    The company was adamant to have the five members of the Chronos squad pose as the cover of their summer collection and endorse their brand.


    "This swimwear company would really put their money to some teens? Why can''t they just hire professional models?" Ms. Yen grumbled.


    She was sitting in the office of Boss Wang and was examining all the brand deals and sponsorship for the Chronos squad.


    "Because at this point, these five teens remained the hot topic across majority of their target audience. The young, young adult and middle-aged people in this district kept on mentioning the Chronos squad. Naturally, the company would show generosity to hook the teens to promote their products," Boss Wang replied as he lazily glanced at the swimwear magazine on his table.


    "Cousin, we have confirmed with this summer wear shooting. I will call that young lady for them to prepare," she casually said and dialed Sofia''s number on the phone.


    "There''s a good opportunity for brand endorsement that is available. I put the squad to collaborate with it. Shooting will be this afternoon," Ms. Yen directly said on her line right after Sofia answered the phone.


    She did not even bother greeting her. Instead, she showed an imposing attitude to let the young lady know that the opportunity that she chose could not be denied.


    Upon hearing this tone, Ms. Yen heard the young lady cleared her throat and went silent.


    "Are you there? Did you hear what I said?" Ms. Yen continued as Sofia was not speaking a word from her end.


    "Ms. Yen, is this you?" Sofia finally asked.


    "Yes, it''s me! Can''t you recognize my voice?" Yen stated in an irritating tone. ''How dare this young girl not recognize me?!'' she mentally scolded Sofia.


    "Ms. Yen, there is a proper manner of handling a phone call. You should perhaps learn it, lest would tell bad things to your company. For example, just now, forgive my bluntness but you sounded too unprofessional," Sofia''s calm voice spread to her ears. But, the words were a bit harsh. And because it was spoken by a youngster, Ms. Yen, became furious.


    "How dare you lecture me about professionalism?! You are too young to know how professionals act. You have no write to tell me how to act, young girl!" her voice erupted like a rumble of thunder roaring in the sky.


    Sofia winced and adjusted the volume of her device to a lower level. "There is no need for you to shout, Ms. Yen. This mobile phone is right in my ear and you are speaking near your mouth," Sofia replied.


    "Hmmph! You don''t know how to read the situation, do you? Well, that is expected for you to be still green. Don''t worry, I will discipline you so that you will grow into a mature person," Ms. Yen stated.


    "Hehe, in your opinion, a mature person screams over the phone for no reason? I don''t like shouting unless I am in-game, so I''d rather pass the lesson. However, if Ms. Yen is interested, you could definitely make me your role model. Please meditate. Stay calm and don''t disrespect people. You are being very disrespectful right now," Sofia refuted. There was no way she would just let the rude behavior of this lady.


    "D-disrespectful? I should be the one who calls you that! You have no respect for seniors!" Ms. Yen stated.


    Boss Wang who was just sitting opposite her raised a hand signal for her to stop. But the battle had already sailed out of the dock and for this hot-tempered lady, there was no turning back.


    She moved her feet away from Boss Wang and the man worriedly looked at her retreating to the corner.


    "Yen, don''t argue with the teen. This may damage our reputation," boss Wang demanded. But his cousin turned deaf from his words and refused to end the call.


    On the other line, Sofia only released a soft chuckle, provoking Ms. Yen''s, and intensifying her anger even more.


    To say, no one knew better than a gamer on how to make a good taunt to their enemy. And much more to Sofia for she was but a tank user. Taunting had already been part of her skills.


    If it was still in the past, she would for sure continue to lecture this lady. But, at present, even if it''s a bad thing to say, she still felt enjoyment... perhaps, the youth age had really influenced her mindset too. She wouldn''t hesitate to use her taunting skills just to see how far could a person go before they erupt.


    "What are you laughing? You disrespectful brat! You should thank me for arranging your group a brand deal!" Ms. Yen stated,


    On the other line, Sofia responded in a very cheerful tone. "Thank you for your hard work, Ms. Yen. Do tell this ''brat girl'' about what you have done to secure the brand deal for my Chronos squad? I should know your efforts before expressing my gratitude, yes?"


    This question completely made Ms. Yen caught off guard that her face turned dark. What had she done to secure the brand deal?


    In fact, she did not do anything for the swimwear company was the one that had reached them. And precisely, these companies contacted to Sofia first and offered her directly to endorse them. But she told them that it is against protocol for they had a private press. Thus, the companies had to to contact their private press and negotiate to them first. Only then, the company will inform them of the negotiation and arranged a meeting.


    Jing Jing would not even need to remind Sofia about some possibility of endorsing shady company for most of the company had emailed to her first for possible collaboration.


    It was thanks to her that these companies contacted the press company to inquire about the Chronos squad!


    If she was not busy with the matters of their business plan, Sofia could have handled the brand deals and endorsement herself. It was even fortuitous for the press company that Sofia was bringing business to them.


    In the corner, Ms. Yen was rendered speechless. She stared blankly at the wall, unable to think of any response.


    "Your silence is a good indication that you have done nothing for us, Ms. Yen. Then how shall I express my gratitude to a senior for doing nothing? Since you are eager to teach me a lesson, please enlighten this youngster," Sofia followed up. This time, her tone hinted that she was smirking on the other line.


    "You! How can you insult me like that?!" Ms. Yen managed to speak. But, her voice cracked as her eyes suddenly began to mist. For some reason, she was on the verged of crying.


    "That''s not true for I did not insult you. It is you who called me a brat. I did not speak any derogatory words nor trash talk you, Ms. Yen, didn''t I?" Sofia stated.


    It was true. Sofia had not said the direct words to degrade her but right now, Ms. Yen felt very insulted. For the young lady had subtly crafted her sentences, so expertly and laced them with sarcasm so she could tell her that she was useless and not worthy for any gratitude.


    "Ms. Yen, let me tell you something that is rather fascinating. After I joined the gaming world and had a good experience on it, I can tell you that those who had a guts to bark nonsense to a gamer must prepare to get bitten. And when they bite, its not only painful but it would also be venomous. It''s not good to pick a verbal fight against me, for I am one of those gamers," Sofia added after the long silence in their line.


    A sudden cold sensation touched the spine of Ms. Yen and she had completely lost her momentum. Sofia''s warning was too much for her to handle that she staggered felt her entire legs went limp. She swayed as steps a couple of times before she completely sat on the floor.


    Boss Wang who noticed her cousin collapsing quickly went to her side. "What happened? Why are you suddenly sitting on the floor?" Boss Wang asked but soon he was silent for there were tears on his cousin''s eyes.


    He took the phone and noticed that it was still connected. "Hello?" he awkwardly said.


    "Boss Wang, I was just talking with Ms. Yen, and she became silent?" Sofia''s soft voice responded. There was even a hint of excitement in her tone that left the man completely perplexed.


    Why is the other line so excited while his cousin looked so dejected?


    "Miss Sofia, hello, hehe," Boss Wang said and made a series of pauses for he did not also know how to start the conversation with her.


    "Boss Wang, the matter about the summer campaign from the swimwear company, only one of my members had the time to attend it. We are still students and you know how hard school works are. Right now, we are catching up with our lessons as well as the preparations for the upcoming regional tournament. The rest of us will be so busy," Sofia took the initiative to start the conversation.


    Despite Ms. Yen not mentioning the entire information during their conversation, Sofia had already calculated that the main subject of their conversation should be the summer campaign.


    It was to easy for her to guess. And after being called out for her pimples last time, she did not plan to display her entire figure for the public.. But because Joey expressed his interest in modeling, she would not also stop her members of what they aspire to do.

 Chapter 180 - Ms. Yen Conceded

    Boss Wang felt a massive headache was about to land on his temple.


    He had strongly sensed that Sofia would not yield to this brand deal for she already expressed her opinion to him before.


    But, because of the budget of this swimwear company, he neglected her opinion and thought that she could bargain the teen with the good amount of money that they would gain afterward.


    "EHEHE, Miss Sofia, the shooting is just one day, it won''t take too much of your time in school. How about you skip class? I can ask your teachers to excuse your other members too. This swimwear company is willing to give us a good figure. It''s a waste if only one member would come. They might cut the budget for this summer campaign," Boss Wang still tried to test his luck and coaxed Sofia.


    "Boss Wang, in this lifetime, money will never be an issue for the Chronos squad. Not today, not in the future. We will earn and make more profit but it should be because we love what we are doing. There is nothing wrong with endorsing swimwear, however, we are uncomfortable doing it. So, even if you will excuse my members to their class to attend the photo shoot, I won''t approve it. Joey on the other hand is willing to go," Sofia responded.


    "T-then, what shall I do? I have already confirmed the appearance of the Chronos squad. And they are requesting the five of you," Boss Wang felt at loss and could not help but told Sofia about what he had done.


    "If you have sister Jing Jing on your side, she would be able to handle these matters smoothly. It''s a pity, you fired her. This time, the best you can do is to tell the swimwear company that the teens were so diligent in their studies and that only one of the members can endorse their products," Sofia responded.


    "I have regretted my reckless action and firing Jing Jing. It was she was starting to talk nonsense about other business around the office," Boss Wang said to justify his actions.


    "Boss Wang, you will regret not only firing Ms. Jing Jing but also by not listening to the...according to you, ''nonsense'' words that she said. It''s the investment, right? Then, next month you must have anticipated doubling your millions. Let''s see if the result would be double or just a mere bubble," Sofia stated.


    "Bah! Last month, my investment was doubled! I got the payment and earned big. So, why would it not be the same this month? Anyway, I still have other matters to do, so, I will call you again for the endorsement," Boss Wang said and quickly disconnected the call.


    By now, Ms, Yen had also managed to calm down. She slowly went towards the chair and sat with her eyes closed.


    "I don''t think I can deal with her," she said before opening her eyes.


    "Miss Sofia? That... I also feel that she is hard to deal with! So, just maintain a civil attitude with her," Boss Wang sighed. He initially thought that he could exploit the teens and make them his money tree. But now, he realized that his assumptions were wrong.


    It was like the Chronos squad was anchored in a big mountain, unable to moved or swayed by any means. And that mountain was of the squad leader.


    "Cousin, if only you have heard how she insulted me earlier but made it seem like innocent remarks. She is indeed what she claimed to be. Venomous!" Ms. Yen scowled, thinking of how their earlier conversation transpired made her felt helpless.


    "This time, we must deal with the swimwear company first. Tell them that the Chronos squad is too diligent in their school works that only one member is available for the endorsement. If they decided to cut off the budget, it is fine," Boss Wang stated and he remembered Sofia''s exact word at the back of his head.


    ''In this lifetime, money will never be an issue to my Chronos squad.''


    It sounded more than just a statement that the lady would randomly speak of. When he heard Sofia said those words, it felt like the young lady was making a vow.


    "Okay, I will tell that to the company. Cousin, sorry if I did not meet up the result that you had been expected," Ms. Yen stated. Even if she could be imposing sometimes, she was not a fool. A single warning from Sofia was enough to back off and just do her job. She could only apologize for the unmet expectations that she caused towards her cousin.


    Boss Wang thoughtfully nodded his head but did not speak anymore. She sat back on his chair and started checking his emails.


    On the opposite side, Ms. Yen went to dial the contact number of the swimwear company. Few rings sounded and her mind drifted to what Sofia had told her.


    ''There is a proper manner of handling a phone call.''


    She sighed. "I''m aware of it! Dammit!"


    Now she realized that even from the start of her conversation with Sofia, she already intended to insult her by reminding such basic details.


    "Sha-Sha swimwear, how may I help you?" Ms. Yen adjusted her sitting position and took a deep breath.


    "Hi, this is Yen. May I have a word with your advertising manager please?" she politely asked and conducted herself properly.


    "No problem! I will connect your call to the advertising department. Please hold on," the voice from the other line responded to hear and she was placed on hold.


    "Sha-sha advertising department, who''s this?" another person picked the call.


    "It''s me, Yen. I am the representative of the Chronos squad. About the summer campaign, we have a bit of a problem about the shooting," Ms. Yen spoke lightly.


    "What problem, Yen?" the person on the other line responded.


    "Well, the teenagers that will model your product are very diligent in their school work. They value their grades. So, only one member can join the photo shoot," Ms. Yen said.


    "If not five of them uhhmm---? Then, I must tell our boss first.. I''ll call back once I finished communicating with my boss," the person said and their call was dropped before she could bid her goodbye.

 Chapter 181 - School Recruitments (1)

    Ms. Yen anxiously placed her phone on the desk. She then massaged the side of her head and felt a little exhausted.


    "I should have not pushed this brand deal. Why did I even try to control that teen?" she reflected on her reckless decision.


    Boss Wang''s shoulder was stiff as a board and he did not bother to comment anymore. But, he also shared the same thought.


    "This teen is too hard to deal with! She did not understand what a good income is! What an ignorant kid!" Ms. Yen spoke absentmindedly while thinking Sofia''s words again.


    "Leave it be. Don''t offend those teen gamers. Just told the swimwear company about the reason I made up. And if those teens have their request, then, agree to them." Boss Wang finally instructed her with a secret glare on his face.


    "I will follow your instructions, cousin. I will maintain my distance from that team!" Ms. Yen agreed and released another sigh.


    -


    On the other side, Sofia was in the school library. Her teacher requested for them to meet so she could prepare for the essay contest.


    Even if Sofia was already adept at writing essays, she still complied and went to the library. However, it had been 30 mins since her arrival yet the teacher was nowhere to be seen.


    She propped her elbows on the desk and leaned her head on it. Every now and then, she would glance at her phone to see if the teacher would contact her again.


    Out of a sudden, she caught a glimpse of Claire entering the vicinity. Her eyes followed at Claire''s movement before the girl choose a desk a few feet away from her.


    "Claire!" she called in a whisper. But then, she realized that there was an earphone on Claire''s ears that she had not noticed earlier.


    Sofia decided not to disturb Claire and just wait for the teacher. As time passed by, she felt that her teacher had really forgotten about her. So, she started to open the game on her phone and study the summoner character.


    "Is it possible to integrate micro gaming in an overall macro strategy using the summoner?" she quietly asked herself.


    Micro gaming relies on individual performance while macro gaming is mostly for teamwork.


    Sofia started to analyze the 5 v 5 map and how she would maximize the gameplay for a summoner character.


    Meanwhile...


    While Sofia immersed herself in thinking about game strategies, Joey was also surrounded by other gamer groups in the field.


    "Bro! You are the fighter and support user of that champion squad last tournament right? Do you plan on joining the regionals?" one of the male students asked Joey.


    He was just enjoying flirting with some campus girls when this group cornered him.


    "We haven''t decided yet," Joey answered. This was exactly what Sofia had instructed them.


    "That''s nice! Bro, we will recruit you to play on our squad!" another male spoke with full of enthusiasm.


    "Do you know, the Blue Lance Squad? Play with us and we will guarantee you a stable career in esports!" the leader of the group offered.


    "HAHA, no thanks! I won''t leave the Chronos squad," Joey easily refused.


    "EH? But the resources of your Chronos squad, we made a research and found out that you don''t even have an official training room or a place for the members to live. In Blue Lance Squad, we will give you free accommodations and a stable career! You will be paid every month," the leader emphasized.


    Joey stared at the man for a long time. He was aware of the benefits that some clubs have for their pro players. But, he could not see himself playing with other teams anymore.


    "Thanks for the invitation but, I have to decline. Even if your compensation for your members is good, the goal of our Chronos squad is far more greater than just having a stable career in esports," Joey stated.


    "Well, don''t regret it. The regional tournament is not the same as the district tournament. All participants come from different districts and it means that the opponents are also tough to face on the battlefield. Hehe, if your Chronos squad cannot pass the elimination round, then, it will be a waste of your talent!" the leader spoke before they left Joey alone.


    "Please don''t say that. The winning squad can only be decided after the championship match," Joey coldly said while looking at the retreating backs of the group.


    "Loser!" the leader yelled but did not spare a glance a Joey.


    "Tsk," Joey clicked his tongue and formed a fist on his hand. But then, he also calms himself and composed a message to their group chat.


    Joey: I am recruited by this squad called Blue Lance Squad. Did some group also recruit you?


    Joey resumed his flirting with a girl who passed by and did not bother to think about the group that approached them.


    -


    -


    Claire was the first to notice the message, Joey. In just a matter of seconds, she quickly responded the chat.


    Claire: I did not know that I am this popular. There are three groups already that wanted to speak to me in private!


    Joey: Hahaha, you are indeed famous, Claire. Assassin users are very in demand! Only one group had approached me so far!


    Claire: What did they offer to you?


    Joey: Free accommodation and stable career in gaming. How about yours?


    Claire: The same as you. They seemed to look down on our squad because we have no office or appropriate place that gamers sleep.


    Joey: That also happened to me!


    Claire: I told them that we don''t have those sleeping quarters but we will soon have an accommodation business. Oh boy, when I told them about it, they went wild and cheer for me but in a sarcastic way!


    "Hahaha, what the heck!" Joey suddenly chuckled and put his phone away. He brushed his hair using his hands and then scanned the school ground. His eyes were sharp as if he was looking for some prey.


    "What are you doing?" the voice of Stephen suddenly sounded from his back. Joey almost jumped like a girl as this really startled him.


    "You almost killed me from shock, bro!" Joey said in anger. His heart really leaped out of shock but he manage to calm down himself so that it would bo be embarrassing for him.


    "Are you hiding from some random students? Hehe, perhaps, one of the girls in your many dates that somehow hoped that you would notice them," Stephen joked.


    "I am not hiding! I was asked to play for a team in the upcoming regional tournament," Joey expressed.


    "Did you agree to play for a different team? Should we say goodbye and find a new member?" Stephen asked in a playful tone.


    "I am not crazy enough to leave the Chronos squad! You don''t have a reason to say goodbye to me!" Joey scolded.


    "Good! I think today had become a recruitment day in our school. These pro players are so eager to register their squad in the tournament and find a good member to play with," Stephen spoke and moved his feet to walk away from Joey


    "I think so. By the way, where are you going?"  Joey called and joined him.


    "I''ll go to the library. I texted Sofia and she told me that she is there right now," Stephen casually said.


    "But, our class will resume in less than 10 minutes! Why would you go to the library and meet Sofia? Did you miss her badly?" Joey playfully commented.


    "Haha, that could be true. If you don''t want to go with me then go back to the classroom," Stephen shrugged.


    Another group of students tried to approach them but Stephen raised his arm and signaled them not to go near him.


    "Wow! You effortlessly rejected them!" Joey stated.


    "It''s fine. I save their time from explaining to me their recruitment process. There''s no way I will change squad," Stephen muttered and turned inside the library.


    "There''s Sofia!" Joey said and Stephen followed his line of vision. Indeed, they saw Sofia reading something on her mobile phone.


    "She seems busy. Let''s go back to our classroom," Stephen said and started to walk again.


    "Wait, wait, wait... you only came here to take a glimpse at Sofia?" Joey said with a suspicious expression on his face.


    "I am. Now that I already see her, let''s go back to our classroom!" Stephen easily said and walked again.


    Joey paused for several breaths and mentally cursed, ''What the f*ck! This man had gone insane!''


    "It must be crazy to fall deeper in love! Why don''t you go and join her there?" Joey continued.


    "No, she will scold me for not attending our classes. I am serious about my studies now so I can graduate this year," Stephen replied.


    "Damn right, let''s go! I have a feeling that we will be scolded if Sofia saw us loitering around here," Joey agreed.. But at the back of his mind, he could not believe that Stephen just went to the library to take a quick look at Sofia. Unbelievable!

 Chapter 182 - School Recruitments (2)

    Claire swiftly flipped the textbook, looking for a certain topic. Last night, she fell asleep and completely forgot to do her assignment. Good thing, she still had 10 minutes before her class would start.


    "Hi! You are the assassin user, right?" a soft voice came in her side and took a seat on the chair next to her. But Claire did not bother responding or looking in the direction of the voice. She was in a rush and could no longer afford to be distracted.


    "Hey, I am talking to you!" the soft voice continued after a minute of not hearing Claire''s response.


    "What?!" Claire finally looked up and glared at the young girl who was disturbing her.


    "I heard from Joey that your squad had not yet decided if you will participate in the regional tournament. I am inviting you to join our squad." the girl replied.


    "No, thanks! I need to continue reading," Claire quickly stated and resumed her attention to the textbook. She expected the girl to stopped.


    "You can read anytime. But the tournament is rare, and must not be discussed lightly," the girl insisted.


    "We will give you the amount of money that is equivalent to our top pro player if you join us. The salary is nice," the girl continued.


    "I am doing my assignment. Please do not disturb me," Claire frankly told the girl without removing her eyes from the textbook.


    "Then, I will put you on our list? If you agree, I will leave you alone," the girl persisted.


    "One million," another voice joined their conversation. But this one was very familiar to Claire. She did not need to look at Sofia to identify her voice.


    "Huh?" the girl asked and stared at Sofia awkwardly.


    "You want to recruit Claire? Pay her one million and she will agree," Sofia stated.


    "Hahaha, Sof, don''t scare her. Besides, I already refused," Claire giggled.


    "Ohh, you are the squad leader, hehe... I am just inviting your members because there is a rumor that you have not decided yet if you will participate in the regional tournament," the girl quickly explained.


    "I don''t know. Look at Claire. Can''t you see? She is very busy with her study. So, how are we going to decide to join the tournament if we have no time to practice? It''s really hard to register with our situation right now," Sofia pretended to think. She tilted her face and looked at the ceiling for a few seconds before she glanced at the girl.


    The girl frowned and gave Sofia a suspicious look. "Then, your other members can be recruited, right?" she asked.


    "All my members are busy studying. You can invite them. But, if they refuse, do not continue to disturb them. Do you want to invite me?" Sofia answered.


    "No. You are also good but our squad only needs an assassin user," the girl responded with a sigh.


    "I see. Then, I can''t help you," Sofia said.


    Claire closed the textbook that she was reading and combed her hair using her fingers. "My class is about to start. Sof, I have to go," she said slipped away without saying a word to the girl.


    "My teacher is already here, I have to leave too," Sofia politely said to the girl and she returned to her table. A faculty member was indeed walking in her direction.


    The girl opened her mouth to speak but then closed it back and exhaled.


    "Did you recruit the assassin user? That player is very good. Make sure to get her to play with us!" a male asked and pulled a chair. He then sat next to her.


    "They said that the reason why their squad is undecided to participate is that they are busy with their study. I thought it was just an alibi but look at the third table on my right... that is a faculty member and the squad leader of the Chronos squad," the girl stated.


    "I see. Then, I will tell the club manager that there is a great chance that they will not participate. It''s also good so that our opponents will not be so tough to compete," the man said and was about to leave.


    "Wait! I want to back out too. My grades are failing. And I need to focus on my study," the girl told the man.


    "Are you kidding me? Rachel, you cannot back out! You are paid to play for the club," the man answered in annoyance.


    "But my grades..." the girl refuted.


    "Who cares about the grades? You still have your money after playing the game," the man debated.


    "How can you say that? If I fail, then my parents will definitely get angry!" the girl commented.


    "Just talk to them and tell them that you will need to play games. This is the life of a pro-player. We must prioritize the club activities than the school activities," the man said.


    "They care about their grades. Look at the leader of the Chronos squad, they are the champion of the last tournament but they are not practicing. Instead, the leader is focusing on her school works. And that assassin user was also concentrating on reading earlier," the girl narrated while looking at Sofia''s back.


    "That is their choice because they have no management. So, they can choose their priorities. As for you and the rest of us, we have to prioritize our gaming skills or else, someone will replace our role, and it''s the end of our career," the man said before he finally turned around and left.


    -


    -


    On the table of Sofia, the teacher placed three textbooks about leadership in front of Sofia.


    "Sorry, I took so much time to find these books. Read them so that you can have many ideas to write in the essay contest," the teacher said.


    Sofia took the books. One by one, she examined the title on the front cover and realized that she had read all of it in her past life.


    "There is no need to apologize, ma''am. Thank you for giving these resources to me," Sofia said.


    "Ahh, good! You actually had a good attitude. I did not make a mistake in selecting a representative for the night class. Please study them and don''t pay attention to some nasty words of the other students," the teacher stated.


    "Nasty words?" Sofia asked.


    "Yes, there are sections in the regular class who looked down on the night class. So, if you hear some of their comments, let it slide and focus on developing your writing skills." the teacher replied.


    "Ma''am, I know what to do. Thank you for your warning," Sofia said.


    "That''s good! Then, start reading the books. I am here if there is something that is confusing to you," the teacher said and waited for Sofia to open them.


    "Ma''am, why do you teach the night class?" Sofia suddenly asked.


    "Ha? AHH, t-this is a personal choice. No one wanted to teach the night class so I offered to handle it. Anyway, I am just a part-timer and the schedule is also convenient," her teacher responded easily.


    "What other contest are we participating in the academic competition?" Sofia probed again.


    "Only this essay contest. No one is willing to participate in the other contest," the teacher softly informed her.


    "Put my name in all of it the contest. Ma''am, you don''t know this but, I have been working hard to study and improve my skills," Sofia offered.


    "Hehe, it''s okay. I cannot put you in the other contests. Otherwise, I will give you a burden rather than inspiration to compete," the teacher answered while shaking her head.


    "If there are no participants in other contests, aren''t the school staff going to question your competency to handle your students. You might be a part-timer in this school, but you got to prove your ability to your colleagues," Sofia calmly said.


    "Even this... you actually understand. You are a smart student," the teacher praised her.


    "Yes, I can roughly guess. So, there is no need for you to hold back. Naturally, I won''t be burdened by that arrangement since it''s me who offered to participate in other contests," Sofia told her.


    But the teacher shook her head several times. "As long as you do your best in the essay contest, I am already satisfied with it," she said.


    Sofia started reading the book that the teacher gave to her. She did not bother to convince the teacher to put her name on the other events.


    "How about you, Miss Sofia? Why do you choose to study in night class?" the teacher curiously asked.


    "It''s because I normally play until dawn. So, the regular schedule is not suitable for me. I''m still asleep in the morning," Sofia stated.


    "You play? Oh! That online games! I see. Now I understand. There is an upcoming tournament for that game, right? Are you going to participate?" the teacher mumbled and examined the overall appearance of Sofia.


    "Well, it always depends on the availability, ma''am.. There is this essay contest that I have to make preparation for first," Sofia chuckled.

 Chapter 183 - Stephens Ultimate: Double Wedding

    Sofia''s teacher did not stay longer than she had expected. Several instructions and words of encouragement were given to her before she was left to study on her own.


    After reading for an hour, Sofia took a break and decided to have some snacks. She picked all the books in her table and carry them to the librarian.


    "I''d like to borrow these books?" Sofia placed the book carefully on the front desk.


    "Your library ID?" the librarian on duty was in her late twenties. She casually asked Sofia for her ID without sparing a glance at the student in front of her.


    Sofia combed her hair and realized that students whom are in night class do not have a library card. It was because no students in the night section have really used the library. This facility is naturally closed when they have their classes.


    "I am in the night class," she politely said.


    "What year are you now?" the librarian finally looked up and focused her attention on Sofia.


    "I am in junior year. We don''t have a library ID," Sofia replied.


    "It''s because no one in your section visits this library. Fill out this form and I''ll give you a temporary library card," the librarian said and pushed the form to her.


    "Okay. Ma''am, when is the maximum day that I can keep these books?" Sofia asked and quickly scribbled her information in every field.


    "The books must be returned on Monday, next week. If not, you''ll serve community extension service during Saturdays," the librarian said.


    "I see. Thank you," Sofia expressed and exited the library.


    On her way towards the cafeteria, Sofia happened to pass the classroom of the seniors where Joey and Stephen were attending the lecture.


    The hallway was empty and when she pass by, the eyes of the students listening to the class followed her.


    Seeing that a student was wandering outside, the teacher walked out and called her, "Excuse me, young miss! Care to explain why you are out here? Classes had already started!"


    "Good day, ma''am! I belong to the night class section," Sofia replied. Her eyes swiftly scanned the students inside the classroom before she looked at the teacher''s face.


    "Oh, the section of dumb students," the words slipped in the teacher''s mouth before she even realized what she said.


    Sofia only gave the teacher a sympathetic smile, "We are not dumb, ma''am. No students are dumb."


    "Ahaha, yes," the teacher forced an awkward laugh and then noticed the books that Sofia was carrying. She nodded her head several times before walking back to her lecture.


    Sofia proceed to walk while mumbling some words that only she could hear, "The night class section is really looked down this much? How could that teacher say that the night class is the section of dumb students? Does she not know that most of the students attending this section are already working? I should insist later to have representatives from our section in all academic contests."


    Meanwhile, the teacher sighed in relief after noticing that the student did not make her words a big deal. She somehow felt tense after her mouth slipped and said those nasty comments.


    In the back row, Joey lightly kicked at Stephen''s chair.


    "Stephen! Stephen, Sofia is outside," Joey whispered near the desk. The man was obviously sleeping. But because he was sitting in the last row, no one could see what he was doing.


    "Where?" Stephen looked up and saw that there was no one outside. He glared at Joey and formed his hand into a fist. "What are you bluffing?"


    "I am not bluffing, she really passed by. Excuse yourself and pretend to go to the comfort room and you will see her. Look at that way," Joey suggested and pointed the direction where Sofia went


    Stephen eyed Joey before he raised a hand. "Excuse me, ma''am, may I go out?"


    "Go ahead, Mr. Ching," the teacher replied. She did not even bother asking him the reason why he would go out in the middle of her lecture.


    Stephen hurriedly stepped out of the classroom and saw the familiar back of Sofia. He grinned and sprinted in her direction.


    "Give me that books. What are these for?" he casually said after reaching in her side.


    "It''s for the essay contest. Don''t you have a class? I saw you sleeping," Sofia stated while giving her a meaningful look. She did saw Joey and Stephen when she took a quick glance at the students earlier.


    "I am not sleeping. If I was asleep, I would not notice you walking in the hallway," Stephen quickly made an alibi. "Where are you going?"


    "I''ll go to the cafeteria and find something to eat. I''m also thirsty," Sofia replied.


    "Be careful. There are so many daring squads that are recruiting for the regional tournament. If they manage to recruit you, then, what are we going to do with the Chronos squad?" Stephen thoughtfully said with a small smile on his face.


    "Oh yeah? Someone was recruiting Claire in the library. How many were inviting you to play for them?" Sofia curiously asked.


    "No one. They are afraid to come and talk to me," Stephen shrugged. "Although, someone also asked Joey if we will participate in the regionals," he added.


    "Hmm, that''s fine," Sofia mumbled.


    The two stepped inside the cafeteria where all the tables were practically available.


    "Which side do you want to sit on?" Stephen asked and looked around.


    "Just here is fine," Sofia said and went to the nearest table on her left side. "Are you skipping class?"


    "I''m suddenly hungry," Stephen answered. Yes, he was obviously making valid reason to skip.


    "Okay, I''ll order us food. I''m hungry too," Sofia stated and placed her bag above the books. She opened the small pocket and took her wallet from it.


    "What do you want to eat?" she asked while checking the cash inside her wallet.


    "I''ll go and grab our food. Stay here," Stephen spoke and took his wallet from his pants.


    "What--- okay," Sofia did not argue and took a sit. "Cold sprite too," she added.


    While Stephen went on the counter, three girls entered and sat next to their table.


    "Hey!" one of the girls called. Her face looked haughty as she stared in Sofia''s direction.


    "Hey!" Sofia repeated in the same manner as the girl spoke.


    "I''ve never seen you around. Are you a transferee?" the girl asked with a small smirk on her lips.


    "Likewise," Sofia muttered and checked her phone.


    "What? What do you mean likewise?" the other girl stated.


    "It means the same," Stephen sounded before Sofia could respond. He was bringing a tray of noodles and sandwiches and two cans of sprite.


    "The same?" the three girls looked confused. They were slow to understand what Sofia meant in her response.


    "It means I have never seen you around too. Are you a transferee?" Sofia repeated the question of the girl.


    "We are always here. The cafeteria is our territory," the third girl declared.


    "Says who?" Stephen asked and placed the tray of food on their table.


    "Don''t speak anymore, I think that is the senior student that was almost expelled," the second girl told her companions.


    "Ohh, yeah, that is him. Look at the tattoo on his wrist," the first girl said.


    "Sorry to bother you," the third girl told Sofia and then the three quickly exited the cafeteria.


    "Your fans?" Sofia asked while stirring lightly at her noodles.


    "Stop talking and eat," Stephen muttered. He dipped his fork on the bowl and twirled the noodles before bring them to Sofia''s mouth.


    "You are the only man that can disarm my confidence," Sofia hinted but still took a bite on the food Stephen gave her. Her face flushed in red no matter how she tried to calm herself.


    The sudden gesture of Stephen feeding her really drained the level of confidence she had to the point that she began to feel conscious. Thankfully, only the two of them are eating.


    "Haha, no need to be shy," Stephen chuckled.


    "Why do I feel like you just used your ultimate on me, And now, my entire HP is about to be drained, " Sofia said after chewing the food.


    "That is definitely not my ultimate!" Stephen eyed her.


    Then out of nowhere, they burst into laughter. Sofia did understand the meaning behind it.


    "I''ll attend the wedding of Brent and Grace on the 25th. Do you have plans?" Sofia casually changed the subject of their conversation.


    "My father arranged marriage of me and Grace to seal some deal in the company. It was agreed by the mayor too. If I attend their wedding, it will be awkward," Stephen said.


    "Awkward? It will only be awkward if you raise your hand when the priest asked if there is someone that objects to their union," Sofia replied. She opened the can of sprite and drank it in half.


    "How about we make it a double wedding? I''m sure your friend, Brent, would approve of it," Stephen grinned with a hint of wickedness flashed in his eyes.


    Sofia''s eyes widened and she was almost choked by her drinks.. "Oh gosh! This is really your ultimate. I cannot! How did you even come up with the idea!?"

 Chapter 184 - Stephen And Sofias Moments In School Cafeteria

    "You don''t like a double wedding? It''s also fine. The spotlight should all be ours when the time comes," Stephen casually mumbled as he leaned forward. Somehow, the world around them suddenly froze and, only the two of them existed.


    Sofia looked down but, there was a small smile appeared on her lips.


    "My face felt burning right now," Sofia managed to convey and focused her eyes on her noodles. She was rendered speechless and could only come up with a sensation in her cheeks. A flushed of bring pink covered her white skin.


    Just then, Stephen extended his arm and held her chin gently, "Let me see," he softly said, making her look at his eyes.


    Warmth spread even further like there were butterflies in her stomach as their eyes locked for a long time. Stephen''s palm touching her chin kindled a kind of passion that Sofia had never felt before.


    In her mind, there were few gaming terms that she could associate with Stephen''s movement. The after-effects per se: stunned, silenced, immobilized...


    Heck! At that moment, she really felt like a battlefield where countless emotions were surging and, she was there waiting to be engulfed by it.


    While Sofia''s emotions were too open for his eyes to see, Stephen mused himself. He gently brushed his thumb on her lips and, for a brief second, he had an inkling that if he leaned closer and kissed her, she would allow him to do it.


    "No double wedding then," he finished and withdraw his hand to his side.


    This time, Sofia recovered from her shock and, she stifled a laugh. "Pffft! Aren''t you too young to think of our wedding?"


    Our wedding. Though Sofia spoke of it casually, it repeated on Stephen''s mind like a melody.


    "Am I too young? I am a year older than you!" Stephen softly snorted. He crossed his legs and gave Sofia a challenging gaze.


    On the other hand, Sofia froze and gulped. She then grabbed the can of sprite and finished its content.


    "I was just telling you that I will attend Brent and Grace''s wedding. I am not thinking of our wedding," she reasoned. Ah, not only she was overwhelmed with different unknown emotions, but she also slipped and forgot her current age.


    She suddenly wondered if it was her real self in the past, would Stephen be able to have this kind of effect on her?


    Perhaps, the answer is no. Her soul was 24 years old! In her past life, it never occurred in her mind that she would feel an attraction to the younger generation.


    Sofia cleared her throat and slowly placed the empty can on the table. Just as she thought that she had finally recovered from her initial shock, Stephen probed further. "Then, when is the right time to think of our wedding, Sof?"


    "Stephen!" Sofia called as she gathered her hands and covered her face. This boy really had a way to completely disarm her!


    Subconsciously, Sofia''s foot swayed below the table and kicked his left knee. The force was not really strong but, Stephen made a dramatic winced.


    "Oww! Okay, okay, hahaha," Stephen rubbed his knees while grinning from ear to ear. He opened his can of sprite and drank it casually.


    "I''ll go back to my apartment and drop those books," Sofia said after he finished drinking.


    "I''ll come with you to help you carry them," Stephen said and swiftly took the books.


    "You go back to your class. Give me those books, Steph. I can carry it myself," Sofia said.


    "Fine," Stephen shrugged and glanced at his watch. It had just been less than an hour that they ate together. "I''ll send you until the gate," he said and kept the books in his hands.


    Even if he wanted to come with Sofia, it would be an offense to their school rules. Students were never allowed to go out of the premises during class hours unless there is an emergency. He had so many serious violations of school rules in the past and was not bothered by it. But now, he strangely wants to follow the rules.


    "What time is the wedding? Are you spending the entire day at the reception?" Stephen curiously asked as they walked towards the exit gate.


    "The event is not yet finalized. I don''t know what Brent was thinking. He rushed this wedding as if his bride would elope with another man," Sofia commented.


    "It has to be rushed for the district election is fast approaching. It may not be Brent''s idea but the mayor''s," Stephen responded.


    "That makes sense," Sofia agreed.


    "Don''t get too close with the mayor''s daughter, Sof. It''s not that I am controlling you of who you meet. But, that girl is not as simple as she looks," Stephen suddenly spoke in a low tone.


    "Oh, she''s fine. I don''t think she had an ill intention. Besides, we also have our separate connection that only girls could understand," Sofia defended.


    "You can spend that connection with Claire," Stephen stated.


    "Claire and I had the purest friendship in this world. There is no doubt about that. As for Grace, there are aspects in her that I can somehow relate to," Sofia vaguely admitted.


    "Well, if she becomes the wife of the Lee Family, then, I think it''s fine. But still, don''t let your guard down," Stephen muttered while glancing at the clouds that covered the sun.


    "Students, do you have an emergency to go out of the school premises?" the guard called them when they were few meters away from the school gate.


    "I am from the night class and came to borrow some books in the library, sir," Sofia explained.


    "Oh, I see. Show me your school IDs?" the guard politely requested.


    Sofia took a sling from her bag which was connected to her ID. She then gave it to the guard. The man mumbled briefly before he switched his attention to Stephen''s direction.


    "I''m sending her out. Bye, Sof. See you later!" Stephen spoke and finally returned the books to her.


    The guard handed back Sofia''s ID and gave her a nod of confirmation that she was good to go.


    "Thank you," Sofia said and waved her hand a Stephen before walking away.


    Stephen sprinted back to his classroom with a bright expression on his face.


    "What took you so long, Mr. Ching? You were half an hour out of my class!" the teacher stated the moment he slipped inside.


    "Some cubicles in the male comfort room were out of order, ma''am. It''s still under repair. So, the queue is a bit long," Stephen quipped and strode towards his seat.


    "Ma''am, the cubicles are fine---" one of the students in the middle row spoke. However, when he felt Stephen''s sharp gaze, he did not finish his sentence and pretended to read his textbook.


    The teacher did not make any further comments too. She just proceed with her lecture and Stephen took a breath of relief.


    "Hehe, where did you go? I said to look for Sofia but you took almost all the class hours," Joey whispered eagerly.


    "I went to eat. I was hungry," Stephen simply replied and started to examine the discussions written on the board.


    "Ohh, you could have invited me," Joey frowned.


    "I went to eat with Sofia," Stephen clarified with a small smile on his face.


    "I see," Joey responded while scratching his head. "No wonder, you are in good mood. Did you talk to her about the other squads recruiting us?"


    "Yes, we talked about it. Claire was also asked by some squad," he casually replied.


    "What else? There is no way you are in this good mood if you only talk about recruitment. Come, spare some gossips so that I can share them with your fans club!" Joey playfully continued to ask him.


    "There is that... And we also talked about double wedding," Stephen easily answered while remembering the expressions on Sofia''s face.


    "What about the double wedding?" Joey inquired while carefully checking their teacher, making him completely missed Stephen''s warm expression.


    "That''s it," Stephen finished and started taking down notes.


    "If you don''t tell, I''ll ask Sofia," Joey shrugged and took his phone out from his pocket. He carefully composed a message but before he could finish typing, Stephen called the teacher.


    "Ma''am, someone is using their phone!"


    Joey gritted his teeth and glared at Stephen. Be before he could express his anger, the teacher already went to his side.


    "Mr. Ho, you have repeatedly neglected my classroom rules. I am confiscating your phone," Joey heard the teacher spoke in a cold tone. This was not the first time that he used his phone inside her class, so, he knew that he can no longer use any alibi.


    "Sorry, ma''am," Joey looked up and forced an apologetic look.


    "You can get this after the class ends," the teacher said after holding his phone and walked back in front.


    Joey could only stare at his device being place on the teacher''s desk and sighed.


    "That is very underhanded. I will tell Sofia about this, just you wait!" he sulked in his seat.


    Meanwhile, Stephen shook his head with a glint of playfulness in his eyes.

 Chapter 185 - Predicament Of The Night Class Students

    Later that afternoon, Sofia went to the classroom of the night class section earlier than usual. She did not meet any of her team nor exchange chats with them anymore.


    When she arrived at the classroom, there were two female students who were already there. Based on the sitting arrangement, she could tell that these two were close friends.


    The two classmates also shared the same hairstyle. They braid a portion of their hair and pulled them around like a princess style.


    "Hi! You two are early," Sofia stated and stepped inside the classroom.


    The two classmates stared at her for a bit feeling a little strange and startled by her greetings. They looked at each other in questioning eyes before shifting their gaze in Sofia''s direction.


    It was because the young lady never connected with her classmates.. And the original owner of her body was also not concerned with school affairs. They felt awkward and surprised that Sofia was talking with them.


    But after a while, the two classmates recovered and shared casual smiles and exchange ''hellos''. Sofia smiled back and waved her hand. Then she walked towards her seat and place her bag on the desk.


    As she quietly sat, she also took a moment to look around and just observe the two classmates. They already resumed their conversation and completely ignored her.


    ''Should I invited them to participate in the academic contest?'' A question suddenly crossed her mind while taking her phone and checking the messages.


    She noticed a message from the squad leader of FAB_Gamers. It was once the team that the Chronos squad had once practiced before joining the district tournament. She had always a good impression with the group.


    Sofia tapped the message and check its content.


    FAB_Gamers_WINS: Did you sign up for the regional tournament?


    She did not need to hide her plans to this team. Sofia directly hit the reply and started typing a response.


    "We received a direct invite from the organizer of the tournament. We will play."


    To receive a direct invitation of the regional tournament means the squad won''t need to join the elimination round of the tournament. There was no need for her squad to really sign-up. The Chronos squad will automatically join the competition if they gave their acceptance to the organizers before the elimination round starts.


    FAB_Gamers_WINS: Lucky us! My squad also has direct invite from the organizers of the regional tournament!


    Sofia smiled and completely understood the situation. It was normal for the FAB_Gamers to have a direct invite but it was quite unusual for the Chronos squad. Newly formed team usually joined elimination rounds and go to the series of game matches before they can join the main competition.


    But, even though the Chronos squad was just a new team, because of their popularity in social media, they were treated the same as those squad who had a background in the gaming community already. It was a great advantage for Sofia to maximize her team to practice with her team.


    Moments passed and Sofia switched to check all her messages. But upon seeing the number of other unread messages that were flooding in her inbox, she decided to keep the phone back inside her bag.


    Sofia sighed and glanced at the two classmates again. She had other goals right now. She contemplated whether to interrupt them.


    But then, she remembered the remarks of the teacher earlier about their section, it sparks her determination to try and convince them to participate.


    "Fellow classmates, may I invite you to join the academic contest with me? I represent our section for the essay, you can choose the other literary contest," Sofia softly spoke and clasped her hands together. She then stood on her chair and walked near them.


    "Academic contest? Why should I bother joining? We have a day job that is more important than that!"


    "Nevermind those trivial contests, it''s a waste of time. I''d rather work and get enough salary."


    The two classmates share the same contempt after hearing Sofia''s invitation. And it would seem that they are employees of the same company.


    Sofia pursed her lips and blinked. She then took a seat on the empty chair next to the two.


    At the Seventh District University, most students go to school and look forward to gaining friends. They are pampered by their parents to attend school for the sake of their future. Participating in school activities as part of their responsibility was given.


    However, there were also another group of students who just look forward to getting their school papers and go on with their life. These students were mostly exposed to the real world before they decided to attend school. Their responsibility is divided between working and studying.


    In this case, Sofia instantly understood that the two classmates in front of her belonged to the second group. The kind of students who pursue to study using their own means. They work to get money and pay using their own pockets.


    "You are a gamer so you have lots of free time to attend the school activities. But we work the whole day and study at night. So we don''t really care about school contests. As long as our attendance is perfect during our class, we can graduate."


    "That''s right! Sofia, good luck with the contest. Do your best but we won''t join that!"


    Priorities. Sofia best knew the essence of setting priority. In life, each person had their own path to choose. But for Sofia, the path of being supported by her parents or being an independent student, she had taken booth.


    "I see. It''s just that it''s my first time participating contest in school. So, it is better if I have another representative in our night class section," Sofia said hoping to gain a sliver of sympathy from the two. She cannot reason with the two about what they must do for she also understood their predicament. But, she felt that she can try to use alliance as a means to convince them.


    Truth be told, her instinct was right. The two classmates gave her a sympathetic look and realized that it was indeed hard if only one of their classmates would be left to represent their section.


    "Eh, Sofia, let''s try to ask the others if they want to participate, okay? Don''t be sad... maybe they will have time to join."


    "Yes, hehe. I will help you ask the other classmates for them to represent our section."


    Sofia gave the two a friendly smile and nodded her head. At first, it was just her. But now, she successfully managed to pull the two classmates on her side.


    Soon after, the other students arrive and the campaign of the three students began. Sofia had also returned to her assigned seats and left the two to do their own convincing.


    "Guys, listen! We need a representative of our section to join the academic contest. I''ve checked the contest just now and there are poetry, impromptu speech, and extemporaneous speech. We must have a representative of these three contests," the female student who offered Sofia help loudly announced to the entire class. Since their teacher had not yet arrived, she took the opportunity to gather everyone''s attention by directly telling them about it.


    "Why are we joining school contests now that we are in junior high? Those faculty members do not really care if the night class will join or not," one of the male students refuted.


    "So what if they don''t care? Personally, they are calling us a dumb section? I think I will join that impromptu and see if they can come up with a good topic to discuss! Hmmph!" A lady suddenly spoke while slamming her hand on the desk, causing everyone to look at her angry face.


    "Ohh Kristelle, don''t be mad! Who cares about these opinions? Even my salary is bigger than what they are getting!" another student boasted.


    "HAHA, that''s right! Well, I will ask the teacher to join the impromptu contest. We should prove to them that we are not someone that they should look down on!" the lady called Kristelle stated.


    Sofia did not know what to say. ''So, it was not just me who had heard the teacher''s opinions about our section,'' she secretly thought while observing the other students exchange of opinions.


    "Dumb huh? Hmmph, then let''s see who their students that we are being compared of! I will get that extemporaneous speech contest," a male student presented. He just arrived and had not yet stepped inside when he heard the conversation outside the door.


    "Nice! Then, the poetry, who is good in poetry?" the first female student who seemed to began the campaign to the majority raised her hand to see if there would be willing to participate. But no one responded to her call.


    "Is there a mechanics to see the poetry contest?" another female suddenly inquired after a few seconds of silence.


    "There is. Go to the bulletin board on the entrance gate," the first female student replied.


    "Then, I will see if I can after checking the mechanics. Poetry is not just writing ideas, it is conversing the heartfelt feelings through deep words."


    "Ohh, wow! Just be listening to you right now, I can feel that you are already qualified to win the poetry!" the first female giggled. and clapped her hand.


    She then went to the side of Sofia and sat on the chair next to her.


    "Good job! You''ve convinced them! Hehe," Sofia gave her a thumbs up.


    "See? You are no longer alone to represent our section! Then, I hope you win and crushed those---" the female suddenly paused and unable to directly call out the names."---those who underestimated us. Do it. Just like how you won the championship of our online district tournament," she finished and gave Sofia a tap on the shoulder.

 Chapter 186 - Game Night

    The teacher stepped inside their classroom but, no one had noticed or paid attention to her. Undeniably, the students in night class section had some issues with respect. In their minds, they also believed that respect must be earned not demanded.


    This was the reason that their teacher did not bother convincing them to participate in any academic contest for she was aware of their behavior.


    "Settle down! I will just give you an activity and you are free to go. You can submit this by Monday," the teacher announced, finally pulling all the attention of the students to her.


    The students scrambled back to their seats seemingly delighted by the announcement. Some could not even help but voiced out their plans after knowing that they won''t have a class.


    "Yes! I can rest early!"


    "Nice! Let''s go karaoke?"


    Sofia gently shook her head and observed the reaction of their teacher..


    "If you go out, please inform your parents and guardian. And be careful," the teacher worriedly said and took their textbook. She swiftly flipped the pages until she wrote the pages on the board.


    Few more instructions were given to the students before they were dismissed. Some quickly left but there were few who stayed.


    "You may now go home," the teacher stated while looking at the students who did not move from their seats.


    "Teacher, we will volunteer to participate in the academic contest! Put our names there," the female student named Kristelle initiated to open their concern.


    Hearing this, the teacher looked at them in a daze. Then she cleared her throat and spoke, "Ehem! I am glad that you took an interest to participate. Put your names on the paper so I can submit them."


    The paper quickly rotated with every student scribbling their names and the contest that they wanted to join.


    "Teacher, here is the paper. Then, we will go home now, see you on Monday!" Kristelle said while placing the paper on the teacher''s desk. Her follow students stood behind her and waved goodbye to the teacher. Then, they left without waiting for her to say a word.


    Still in a daze, the teacher was left with one question in her head, ''What gives my students to participate this time?''


    Meanwhile, Sofia had left earlier together with the first students to get out of the classroom.


    Because they were dismissed early, Stephen was not there to pick her. Nevertheless, she sent a quick chat message to their group chat and told them that she was free.


    No one viewed her message though, so, she guessed that her members may be playing at that time.


    "Hey! Sofia!" one of her classmates called when she exited the gate.


    She look back and saw a group of five students waving at her.


    "Hello!" Sofia said and waved back at them.


    "Do you want to join us in karaoke?" one of the group casually invited her.


    "Ahh... I''m going to my place to play games. Hehe, thank you for inviting me though," Sofia directly refused and told them the reason why she won''t be joining them.


    "HAHAHA, damn! I somehow expected that response from you!" another classmate replied while sharing a laugh with her.


    "Ehh? Sofia, your squad is really famous on social media! Almost all my feeds contained the topic of the Chronos squad. By the way, are you and that senior student in your squad dating?" the third classmate suddenly asked.


    "Thank you, fellow classmates. The entire Chronos squad is a family to me. So, we are really close," Sofia responded with a gentle smile on her lips.


    "So, you and Stephen are not dating?" the third classmate probed further.


    "Not yet," Stephen''s voice suddenly came out of nowhere. Then, he emerged behind Sofia.


    "Ohh..." the third classmate trailed completely lost in words. Not yet! It still meant that the two were not denying any possibility that they would date!


    "Then, have fun in the karaoke, fellow classmates. I will go now," Sofia politely told and smiled at Stephen.


    "How about the two of you join us in karaoke? Since Stephen is here, just for tonight? You guys play online games all the time. Why not do something for a change?" the first classmate persisted.


    "Thanks but our friends are waiting for us and we are about to start playing," Stephen said and guided Sofia.


    "What a pity," the third classmate muttered as they watched the two figures crossed the road and walked towards the convenience store.


    "But, I think they are dating. Just look at the way they walk. They are too close," the first classmate implied.


    "Anyway, let''s go! It''s just us and let''s have fun!" the third classmate said and their group also left the school premises.


    On the other side, Stephen and Sofia entered the convenience store and decided to grab some food before heading to her apartment.


    "I am not really hungry. I''ll just get snacks for us," Stephen said and picked few packs of muffins and cookies. The quantity was good for the entire squad.


    "That''s fine. Add this bar of chocolates," Sofia said and picked the entire box of chocolate.


    "Anything else you need?" Stephen looked at her.


    "No more. How''s your class ended? Did your teacher scold you after visiting the cafeteria during class hours?" Sofia suddenly asked as they were waiting for their turn to pay for their food.


    "It''s fine. But if Joey tells you something, don''t be a surprise," Stephen responded while thinking about his earlier conversation with Joey.


    "Tell me about what?" Sofia muttered.


    "The double wedding. He might open up a conversation of that subject," Stephen answered while.


    "Oh, I see... Did he have got an official girlfriend now? He will be having a shooting tomorrow for the swimwear company," Sofia said.


    "I doubt if he is ever going to have a serious relationship sooner. Joey loves his freedom so much," Stephen shrugged. It was their turn to pay and he quickly handed his money to the cashier before Sofia could initiate to pay.


    "Then why would he ask me about a double wedding?" Sofia felt confused and eyed Stephen for a long time.


    "Hehe," Stephen responded with a rich chuckle and did not speak anymore.


    "Thank you, come again!" The cashier said and hurriedly packed their food. The two nodded their head and proceeded to walk.


    "Ohhh..." Sofia suddenly expressed and a look of realization appeared on her face. She just remembered the double wedding conversation that she had with Stephen in the school cafeteria.


    "HAHA, yeah, I did not tell Joey the details about it. So, he said that he would ask you," Stephen said.


    "I see, I see," Sofia pondered. The two walked side to side until they entered the apartment building.


    "We are hanging out in Claire''s place. Ms. Jing Jing is also there. We were about to finish the game when you sent a chat that you have no class," Stephen informed her.


    "I''ve fully understood the gameplay of the summoner. This mage is actually very powerful in a support role," Sofia stated.


    "Ohh, then, let''s practice using your summoner character as the support of the team. You can stay behind my archer," Stephen muttered.


    "Yeah, I''ll tell you the skills of it in support. At first, I thought it would be more advantageous to use the character as a mage role. But, now, I''ve discovered an additional skill that can be triggered with an item and stacks if it will be utilized as a support role," Sofia eagerly said.


    "Our opponents would be tougher than the last tournament. It''s good to have a direct invite to become one of the participants of the main competition," Stephen commented.


    "Yeah, let''s not just aim to win. Let''s be the first champion of the regionals," Sofia beamed and held her hand together near her chest.


    "AHH... the pressure! Squad leader, don''t be like that!" Stephen joked and pretended to be carrying a heavy object on his shoulder.


    "HAHA, there is no need to be pressured. As long as we play the game and enjoy every match, we may not even notice that we have already achieved that goal," Sofia grinned.


    "Hey, is that snacks?" Claire called in the distance as the two were still on the staircase. She pointed her right index finger to the plastic bag at Stephen''s hand that they got from the convenience store.


    "Yes! Are you in-game now?" Sofia called back at her. The left hand of Claire was indeed holding a phone in a horizontal form.


    "We went to play when Stephen left to get you. Ms. Jing Jing is here... Clark and Joey too. Thank you for the snacks!" Claire quickly reported as she let the two came inside her unit.


    "Oh! You two are here! We already went to play this round!" Joey spoke after seeing Sofia and Stephen.


    "We are inside the battlefield, but I am still familiarizing the character that I am playing," Jing Jing casually said and waved at Sofia.


    "Alright. Finish your match, guys. I''ll just go and change my clothes. I''ll be back to join you playing," Sofia said and excused herself. She then went out of the door and sprinted to her place.

 Chapter 187 - [Bonus ] Intimidation And Provocation Gone Wrong

    Feb 20, 2017, Academic Contest, 3rd Floor Literary Auditorium, Seventh District University


    The rivalry of the students in the night class section and regular students became more evident the moment Sofia and her classmates entered the venue of the contest.


    The coldness of the air conditioning in the auditorium could not even compare to the cold glares that the regular student was sent to them. Few of the regular students boldly expressed their opinions... while others were reprimanding them.


    "Why are they here? I don''t really like to be in the same room with poor students. Such a disgrace!"


    "Tsk! I did not know that the night class section is so ambitious to join our contest?"


    "Guys, don''t be like that. They are students in this school too."


    "Why are you defending them? They are nothing like us!"


    "Don''t quarrel over garbage. They are not worthy."


    While the regular students kept on talking to one another, the subject of their discussion did not even pay a glance to them.


    Sofia secretly admired her classmates for turning deaf and completely ignoring the provocations from the other students. Most of them decided to were earphones while the rest looked completely uninterested to indulge in any verbal activities.


    There were eight students in the night class section who managed to be present in the place. This attendance was already impressive considering that their section was never bothered with school activities before. Half of the attendees were representatives of the contests. They sat silently in the front area, near the faculty members'' seats.


    Even before the contests began, the regular students had been complaining about how the night class section does not deserve to compete against them. Halfway through the contest, the complaints began to grow and the comments became nastier. By the time the contests were finished, those who were complaining became frustrated and irritated by the lack of interest from the opposite party.


    "Woah, their face is so thick that it won''t even budge after all the things that we say to them."


    "Naturally, the night class students are really thick-skinned. Only they request to have a night schedule so that they can work in the day... really ambitious!"


    "Let''s find a chance to catch them later!"


    Because the words of provocations did not work against the night class students, the group of regular students devised a plan to intimidate their prey.


    It happened that Kristelle and Sofia decided to use the restroom. They secretly slipped out of the auditorium and the group of regular students quickly find a good opportunity.


    "How did your essay, Sofia? This kind of contest is not challenging at all!" Kristelle murmured while they walked together in the hallway. Sofia opened her mouth and was about to respond.


    However, out of a sudden, Kristelle''s body was pushed forward by a strong force behind her, making her completely lost her balance and tripped on the floor.


    "What the f*ck!!!" Kristelle yelled and turned her head to see the group of students who pushed her. Her hand instinctively clenched on the side as she felt a sting in her knee.


    "Psh! Don''t block our way!" the leader of the group proudly stood in front of them. The girl placed her hand on her waist and looked domineering.


    "Fellow student, it''s not good to harm others. There is a CCTV camera here. We can report you to the guidance office," Sofia told the group while glancing at the camera. But then, her expression changed when she realized that there was no sensor light on the lens, which was an indication that the camera was turned off.


    Sofia sighed quietly offered a hand to help her classmate but she was also shoved on the side, her body hitting the wall.


    "Are you deaf? I said, don''t block our way! What CCTV camera? It''s not even working! Hihihi..." the leader of the group repeated after shoving Sofia. Her laughter resembled that of a villainous witch in some fictional drama.


    "Hey!" Kristelle reacted and in a split second, she kicked the girl who pushed her. The girl was hit in the leg and she could sense that something snapped before her entire body dropped on the floor.


    "AHHHH..." the hallway was quickly filled with a scream of the girl that Kristelle kicked. An agonizing scream but since no one was around, only the other regular students behind her could hear.


    "What have you done?!" Her companions looked paled as they stepped back and retreated for a few steps. They could tell that it was something serious. They just planned to prank and scare the two nigh-class students. But now, their leader ended up sprawling on the floor.


    "Since you like pushing, I''ll let you push something every day," Kristelle coldly said. Then, she raised her knees and stomped the other leg of the girl using all her force. They could hear the bones cracked while her foot made in contact with the leg.


    Sofia had no time to even say a word when her classmate attacked again. She could only gulp after realizing the meaning of Kristelle''s last statement. She meant to broke the girl''s legs and let her use a wheelchair for the rest of her life!


    "WAHHHHHHH... That hurts! That hurts!" the girl continued to scream while her hand was trying to massage her legs.


    Kristelle give the girl a cold smirk before she shifted her attention to the companions of the girl. "Do you know who I am? Oh, well... If someone asks you what happened here, tell them this is an accident. Otherwise, I find you and cut your tongues! You understand?!"


    The girl''s companion trembled and nodded their head. Tears started to roll in their eyes as they silently cried on the side.


    "Huhuhu, my legs! It hurts! It''s so painful!" the leader of the group started to sob.


    Kristelle turned around and look at Sofia who was stupefied on the side.


    Sofia had witnessed this kind of attack but only in online games and not in real life. Her gaming experience was not enough for her to prepare on seeing how Kristelle went on full rage in front of her.


    "Are you okay?" Kristelle asked seeing Sofia''s shocked expression. Her expression had turned friendly while examining Sofia''s arms.


    "I think so," Sofia said and blinked her eyes a couple of times.


    "You think so? Didn''t you gamers are more exposed to violence too? Why is it that you look so shocked? Hahaha," Kristelle giggled. The two of them started walking as if nothing had just happened.


    "I''ve never seen an actual combat before," Sofia admitted.


    "Still, you play games everyday and kill your opponents. Isn''t it the same?" Kristelle wondered.


    "Not the same," Sofia shook her head. Definitely not the same!


    Behind them, Sofia could hear the group of girls started to call for help. She suddenly felt anxious and bothered by the leader of the group. If Kristelle was serious, then, her legs were really useless!


    "We might get in trouble. Did you broke her legs?" Sofia mumbled worriedly. This was her first time getting involved directly in an assault. No matter what, in her eyes, it was a physical assault that would surely result in a major injury, right?


    "I did! But, they have been provoking us inside the auditorium. If I don''t give their leader a hard lesson, they won''t learn. Besides, I''m not afraid of anyone in this school! If there is one that scares me here, it''s actually you," Kristelle responded.


    "Huh?" Sofia was taken aback. "I don''t think I have that ability to be in actual combat," she quickly added.


    "Hehe, I heard from double sigma that you are their boss. It was a talk on the town since yesterday. At first, I thought they meant a different Sofia. But, they said it was the famous gamer," Kristelle stated.


    "Ohh... The fraternity... Don''t misunderstand... I''m not the kind of boss that is in your mind. My friends planned to open a hostel in the intersection street and they will work as employees there," Sofia said.


    "It doesn''t matter what boss it is. That fraternity is most feared in this district. Back then, my parent''s house was burned by them because my father offended Derek. The police would not even want to get involved and my father also claimed that it was an accident. So, yeah, if they considered you as a boss, then, you are someone to be feared above them," Kristelle responded.


    "Sorry to hear that. But, I am just an ordinary citizen that is their employer. And I don''t plan to do illegal things," Sofia muttered and the two finally reached the lady''s comfort room.


    On the other location within the campus vicinity, the school clinic was filled with students after the incident was known. Those companions of the girl were interrogated by the guidance counselor, yet, all of them claimed that it was just an accident.


    "Do you see me as a fool? There is no such thing as an accident in the middle of the hallway!" the guidance counselor scolded. But no matter how she pressed any information from the students involved, all of them had the same answer. It was an accident.


    As for their leader, she was too shocked to even speak. The girl just cried until she fell asleep.


    "The students had been so bold day by day. First, the incident of that boy Martinez. And now, here is another incident. Call the head of the guards and tell him that I am requesting the footage of the CCTV on the 3rd floor," the guidance counselor instructed her assistant while glaring at the students that she was trying to interrogate.

 Chapter 188 - [Bonus ] Burden Of Conscience

    "Counselor, the head of the school security said that the CCTV on 3rd floor is still under repair. They cannot provide data to us," the assistant of the counselor reported. The students sitting on their chairs did not even have any reaction after hearing it. They knew it all along that there would be no working camera in the area. In fact, their leader had announced it to their targets before her legs were broken.


    "What a pity!" the counselor shook her head in displeasure. She was aware of some repairs that were ongoing with the school vicinity. But to think such a crucial matter that could easily help her to solve the situation was also affected by the repairs, her level of disappointment had turned to the next level.


    Just then the door of her office was flung with a bang and two figures stormed angrily. Their footsteps were like marching soldiers ready to engage in war. Before anyone could speak, the figures were already screaming as they stepped inside.


    "What happened to our daughter? We demand an explanation!"


    The figures were the parents of the girl. After they entered the room, they noticed the friends of their daughter first. They glared at the students and then, their line of vision went to the guidance counselor, waiting for her explanation.


    "I also want to know what happened to your daughter. But, her friends claimed that it was only an accident. I don''t know what explanation should I give to you when the witnesses are unwilling to speak of the truth," the guidance counselor stated. She was displeased with how the two made their entrance. But, she understood that given the gravity of the situation, it was also normal for any parents to react like them.


    The students who were already tensed became frozen. Their eyes were focused on the floor and refused to make eye contact with anyone. The scene of Kristelle''s domineering figure was still fresh in their memories.


    "Counselor, why must it be the student''s responsibility to tell us what happened? Is this school so useless? We just visited our daughter and the school nurse is transferring her to the hospital! This matter is serious!" the father of the girl urged the counselor.


    "We will continue our investigation, rest assured!" the guidance counselor replied as she felt heavily burdened.


    "My daughter is injured now. But this is only what you are going to say to us?" the mother felt discontented and wanted answers right away.


    "If you want my word badly, then, based on the witnesses, it was an accident. Then, it is an accident!" the guidance counselor almost yelled but after remembering her position, she managed to control all her emotions and also muttered her response coldly.


    "How could it be an accident?!" the man''s voice burst in all corners of the room and it can even be heard from the outside of the office.


    "This is why an investigation should be done. Instead of screaming in my office, why don''t you comfort your daughter in the school clinic?!" the guidance counselor suggested.


    "Whoever is responsible for the injury of our daughter, this person must pay doubled!" the man uttered with a dark expression on his face. Then, the two figures exited the office.


    The guidance counselor closed her eyes and meditated for a while. Then, she gazed at the students.


    "Let me ask you one last time. What happened? No need to be scared. The school will handle everything for all of you."


    The students finally looked up and meet the counselor''s sharp eyes.


    "It was an accident," all of them repeated, insisting that there was no foul play.


    "Just tell me what happened I won''t tell anybody. Your friend will go to the hospital. Her parents deserved to know what really occurred in the hallway. Don''t you feel guilty for your friend to suffer in pain?" the guidance counselor continued. She did not want to stop questioning them until their response would change.


    But the students had already hardened their heart and was totally traumatized by what they had witnessed. In the end, they just repeated their response, "It was an accident."


    "Fine! You may call your parents to come and get you here," the counselor said and permitted the students to go home early.


    Only then did the students sighed in relief and quickly took their phones to call their parents. The counselor could only shake her head as she felt very conflicted.


    Back in the comfort room, Sofia suddenly felt overwhelming emotions bubbling in her chest. She had admired her classmates earlier for their lack of response to the provocation that was spoken by the regular students. Now, her mind was totally disturbed.


    "What are you thinking?" Kristelle asked after seeing how Sofia was staring intently at her reflection on the wall mirror. The comfort room on this floor was more elegant than most that were built for students'' use. It was because the auditorium was usually used to receive visitors.


    Sofia remained silent and pressed on the faucet. Waters streamed down the sink. Sofia looked down, gathered some water on her palms, and bent slightly to wash her face.


    "Sorry if my actions shocked you earlier. It seemed like it really affected you," Kristelle continued to speak after realizing that Sofia was not going to talk. She tried to read the expression on Sofia''s face however, there were really no emotions on it.


    "I''m okay," Sofia muttered and examined her elbow that was bumped on the wall when she was shoved earlier. There was a small scrape on her skin but it was not painful. "Kristelle, you are older than those girls. You must exercise self-control. You were wrong to break her legs."


    "Cheh! I know those kinds of students. If we don''t show them our capability, they would just use their parents to handle us. Sometimes, self-defense is not enough. You have to let them know where the boundary lies," Kristelle said, defending her actions.


    "Those were young girls. I don''t think they could make serious damage," Sofia debated.


    "Yeah, wait until their reasonable parents hunt us. And the damage would be out of control. You don''t need to think of it anymore. Just pretend you are not there," Kristelle stated. She also put some water on her knees that was bleeding.


    ''This girl is so young but she is this ruthless already!'' Sofia secretly thought. Although, in her present body, Kristelle is probably 2 years older than her, still, it will only make her 19 years old! But the way she dismissed what she had done was really something that Sofia could only describe as ruthless.


    By the time they returned to the venue of the contest, the awarding had already begun but it was interrupted as the incident in the hallway spread around the students.


    "Have you seen the girl that accidentally broke her legs? hey say that it happened in the hallway," one of the night class students asked Sofia just right after she took her seat.


    "We did not see anything," Kristelle casually replied.


    "Ah, they were quick to bring her to the school clinic because her injury was too alarming. They said that her legs were completely snapped," the classmate commented.


    "By the way, the host said that the winners will just be announced in the bulletin board and we can go home now. They will suspend the class to finish all the repairs," another classmate said.


    "Ohh, then, I''ll go home first!" Kristelle announced and swiftly made her way out of the auditorium.


    "Why is she in a hurry?" one of the classmates wondered while looking at the back of the girl.


    "Maybe she planned to work half day? Ahh, I''ll go now too!" another classmate responded.


    The school forums published an announcement that the class will be suspended. Sofia was already entering her apartment unit when the announcement was released.


    As she checked her phone, there was a message from her group that asked her if they would have a practice playing. Claire personally went to her place before the other members could come.


    "What a nice day to play a game! Let''s play, Sof!" Claire beamed. She sat in the living room while Sofia was just drinking bottled water.


    "I think I''ll go to sleep and play after. Are they coming over?" Sofia asked.


    "Yes, they are on their way here to play. Sof, if you want to rest, we will just hang out in my place. Come down and join us when you are awake," Claire thoughtfully said. She stared at Sofia and felt something was not right in her expression. But, she only assumed that it was probably because she was tired.


    "Sure. I''ll go sleep first," Sofia excused herself and went to her room.


    There was a heavy feeling in her heart that she felt totally guilty of the incident.


    No matter how she wanted to forget about it, it was already etched in the depth of her memories, hunting her conscience.


    She had never met such a cruel and repulsive girl like Kristelle in her current or past life. No matter what, it was but an extremely terrifying experience.

 Chapter 189 - [Bonus ] Possessed By A Workaholic Spirit

    "Okay, rest well, Sof!" Claire mumbled and did not linger longer in Sofia''s place.


    After Sofia excused herself, Claire sent a brief chat message in their group chat informing her friends that Sofia will take a rest. Then, she shut the door of Sofia''s unit and went back to her place.


    Jing Jing was the first to arrive among the other members. She easily located Claire''s apartment and knock on her door


    "Ms. Jing Jing, come in! Sofia said she will rest. Hehe, let''s play again!" Claire excitedly said. She had been playing with Jing Jing and was very satisfied with her gameplays. Sometimes, Jing Jing would also guide her on a better way to counterattack whenever there is a clash.


    "Haha, she finally decided to take a rest! She had been handling everything from the school work to the business planning and the tournament. It must be very exhausting!" Jing Jing commented as Claire guided her to the living room..


    "Sofia is too cool, right? Hehe, earlier, there was also the contest that she joined. I think it really made her exhausted," Claire stated. Then, she thoughtfully took a cup of tea and offered it to Jing Jing.


    "Thanks," Jing Jing said and smelled the aroma of the tea.


    "I did not even know how she managed to do it. The Sofia that I know was too immersed in the game and just stayed in her place for an entire day. This Sofia now had too many errands to do!" Claire mumbled.


    "Hahaha, well, she might really find her passion in business and also in gaming. Anyway, her effort would be very advantageous for your group in the future," Jing Jing replied with a small smile on her lips.


    "It is, Ms. Jing Jing. But, I also have a weird feeling that Sofia is possessed of some workaholic spirit! Is that even possible?"  Claire pouted but her eyes conveyed warmth on it.


    "Workaholic spirit?! That really a unique was to say but I also want to be possessed by it!" Jing Jing joked.


    The three boys finally arrived and overheard their discussion.


    "What workaholic spirit?" Joey inquired as the three of them sauntered inside. Just like Sofia''s place, they had already accustomed to hang out in Claire''s unit that they did not wait for Claire to invite them. The three casually sat on the couch.


    "We are talking about how awesome Sofia could multi-task in different aspects," Claire responded.


    "Oh, I''ll go check her first. You guys play," Stephen suddenly spoke.


    "She is probably asleep. This is my key to her unit. I''ve locked it," Claire spoke and casually trhow a key in Stephen''s direction.


    "Thanks, Claire!" he caught the key and left.


    "EHEM! EHEM!"


    "EHEM! EHEM!"


    The group deliberately cleared their throat loud enough to tease Stephen. But their teasing was ignored as the boy almost disappeared from their sight in an instant.


    Then, without any delay, they decided to log in to their gaming account and find a random match.


    Meanwhile, Sofia curled her body in her bed while countless scenes started to play in her mind. Perhaps, the incident in the auditorium hallway had triggered some memories she had in the past that kept flashing in her thoughts.


    She was hugging her pillow tightly when she felt a hand gently massaging her head. She casually turned around and looked at Stephen''s worried face.


    "What''s wrong? You are trembling," Stephen commented. Sofia did not even realize that her body was slightly shaking until the boy mentioned it.


    "Nothing''s wrong. I want to rest," Sofia vaguely responded as she sat up.


    "I told you I would come to attend the academic contest. You said there''s no need. Now, you are like this," Stephen murmured.


    "There is no connection with my rest and the contest. I just felt like I need some sleep," Sofia pouted. The need to sleep was her decision to clear some heaviness of her emotions. But her mind was really not cooperating with her.


    "It''s just so unlikely for you to be like this. It felt like you are distancing yourself," Stephen stopped giving her a massage and scratched his head instead. There was point in denying it when he could really sensed that something was off even to Sofia''s tone.


    "Ohh? What is so unlikely of me? It''s normal to get tired. It''s why I am taking a rest. Don''t push it," Sofia coldly said. Somehow, Stephen''s intuition was right. Her mood was totally off.


    Stephen secretly sighed, unable to process Sofia''s attitude. He furrowed his brows and put his hand on her forehead. "You don''t have a fever either. Well, I''ll go to the convenience store to get something."


    Sofia stared at his retreating figure before she decided to lay down and really sleep. Didn''t they plan to play? How come Stephen is idling around her unit?


    For some unknown reason, she could not understand why she also felt irritated.


    After a while of tossing and turning around her bed, her brain was still awake. "It''s better to get a shower," she muttered.


    But the moment she jumped out of her bed, she noticed  tiny yet distinct red stain on her sheets. "AHHH," she sighed again and gently smacked her forehead.


    This time, she finally realized why she felt so irritated. It was some hormonal reasons that girls encounter every month.


    Sofia swiftly went to her toiletries only to realize that she had run out of sanitary pads. Without thinking too much, she opened her phone and dialed Claire''s contact number.


    "Sof, I am in the game. I''ll call you back after---" Claire''s rushed voice connected on the line after the first ring. And before Sofia could speak, the call was already disconnected. She just wanted to borrow some pads to her!


    ''Aiyyaa... gaming is life! This friend did not even bother to listen!'' Sofia lamented. But she would also probably do the same thing if she was in the middle of the game.


    The next contact number that she dialed was Jing Jing. She assumed that the lady was in Claire''s place and was also hanging out with the members of the Chronos squad.


    When Sofia heard the first ring, the voice operator followed to speak stating that the line of Jing Jing was busy. Jing Jing actually ignored her call!


    ''What the heck!'' Sofia bitterly chuckled. Perhaps, the match that they were playing was really intense to the point that they had not paid attention to her phone call!


    She then remembered that Stephen was in the convenience store. For a moment, she contemplated. Do boys would buy those stuff if they were asked? She did not know. Sofia also felt kind of awkward to ask him but who else could she rely on in this situation?

 Chapter 190 - [Bonus ] Sofias Irritation

    After a moment of contemplation, Sofia released another sigh and contacted Stephen. She could no longer count how many times she had sighed for just a day. And as the ringing sound started to buzz in her ear, a ringtone of some oriental flute tune erupted near her mini desk.


    A mobile phone that was definitely not hers was placed on it. And the screen was flashing brightly while her phone call was trying to connect. Sofia did not need to examine the phone for her to know who owned it.


    "ARGH... what bad luck!" Sofia lamented. On the mini desk was Stephen''s phone blaring loudly with a strange melody. It could only mean that he had left it there before exiting Sofia''s place.


    Now, Sofia sensed another wave of irrational irritation in her chest. This unexplainable stress really upsets her. It was something that she was having a hard time not control.


    "I don''t remember switching attitude in the past. I definitely have complete self-control no matter what the situation was. But now... why is this that it''s hard to control this irritation? This original Sofia is actually too hot-tempered too. What a bother!" she mumbled after examining the memories of her body. She discovered that the original Sofia would only vent her anger in the online games that she was playing.


    While she was trying to gather all remaining calmness she had, Stephen''s figure appeared in the doorway. He did quickly come back and he brought a box of ice cream.


    "Who angers you?" Stephen asked while handing the plastic bag that contains the box of double-flavored ice cream to her.


    "What''s this--- oh! Wow!" Sofia examined the product inside the bag and in an instant, a grin appeared on her lips - very unlikely reaction but she did not seemed to be conscious on it. It was as if she had received the most precious thing she could ever think of right now. Her eyes sparkled and she happily went to the dining area.


    Stephen silently observed her from behind and secretly thought. ''Ice cream is really an effective dessert to lighten a mood!''


    It was actually the only reason why he went out. After he had realized that Sofia''s mood was off, Stephen decided to buy her an ice cream. It was a wild guess but he sensed that it would be effective to coax her to return to her usual self.


    "Why did you buy an ice cream, Steph?" Sofia asked and took two glasses and scooped the ice cream from the box to put on it. Her movements were fast, showing a full of eagerness to taste the sweetness from the box.


    "I just felt like buying," Stephen replied but at the back of his head, he was silently singing his thanks to all his angels who activated his intuition.


    "Is it a bother if you go back to the convenience store?" Sofia suddenly inquired while handing one of the glasses to Stephen. The ice cream had slightly distracted her about her situation but she really needed for someone to grab something for her. There was a bit of reluctance in her tone but it certainly had returned to normal.


    "Not at all. What do you want to eat?" Stephen asked thinking that Sofia may want to eat something other than the ice cream.


    "It''s not food. I need a sanitar---" Sofia abruptly paused. Damn, they were eating. Her 24-year-old and sophisticated soul had just realized how improper the subject that she was about to say was. "---ehem! I''ll ask you after you finish your ice cream," Sofia mumbled.


    "Okay," Stephen said and went to his mini desk to take his phone. "You called me?" he asked after seeing the missed call notification.


    "Yeah, I did not know you left your phone," Sofia shrugged.


    "I did not plan to go out for long. So, I just left my phone," Stephen responded.


    Just then, it was time for Sofia''s phone to vibrate. As she grabbed it, she saw Claire calling her. ''Ahh... the match must have been finished. This is good! I would not bother Stephen from buying any more!''


    "Sof, haha... do you need something?" Claire''s vibrant voice came in her ears the moment she answered the call.


    "Yes... I''ll send you a message, Claire," Sofia quickly said. She then composed a text and told Claire about her problem.


    "Is it Claire?" Stephen asked while looking at Sofia typing something on her phone.


    "Yes, they have finished their first match," Sofia replied.


    "Ohh... Uhm, what do you want me to buy in the convenient store? I''ll go now," Stephen quipped his phone. He had finished the ice cream in his glass and placed them on the sink.


    "I''ve changed my mind. Hehe... No need to go back to the convenience store. Just join at their second game and play to harness our teamwork and group coordination," Sofia cheekily replied.


    "Ohh--kay. Then, I''ll go to Claire''s place now. You continue to rest here and come with us later," Stephen stated and did not speak anymore.


    On his way, he also saw Claire in the corridor and was going to the direction of Sofia''s unit.


    "You''ve checked Sofia, Steph?" Claire asked.


    "Yep! She is fine. She will just sleep," Stephen easily told Claire.


    "Oh, good... I just remembered that I left something in Sofia''s room. I will retrieve it. Give me back the key," Claire responded.


    Stephen easily returned the object that Claire had lent to him. Before the two went in their separate direction, he suddenly realized something odd.


    Claire was holding an article of unfamiliar black clothing. He stopped and stared on it with his brows furrowed. He felt odd. But in reality, it was just actually use to cover of the object that Sofia had asked from Claire.


    "Stephen, did you notice something strange to Sofia?" Claire suddenly asked while playing the key on her palm.


    Strange? There were indeed a lot of strange occurrences that he managed to discover. But Stephen only shook his head.


    "Nothing is strange." ''But that black cloth is,'' he mentally added.


    "Okay, that''s good. But, if she acts like she is very irrational, just let her be. Today is not a good day to argue with her," Claire started. After knowing Sofia''s situation, she could only sympathize with the next person.


    "I won''t argue with her," Stephen easily replied. And then two proceed to walk in an opposite direction.

 Chapter 191 - Views Of Gaming World, Entertainment World, And Corporate World

    "Our opponent was so good. We were outplayed for the early game.  Luckily, they did not push, so we made a comeback and defeated them," Claire narrated what happened during their first match. Sofia was also done freshen up and was already changing her bed sheets.


    "Were they in one squad? Or just random opponents?" Sofia inquired. Her hands were busy pulling the bedcover while chitchatting with Claire.


    "We played a random match. But, they were in one squad. The name is TXX.EN," Claire replied.


    Unlike Sofia who was physically busy, Claire was sitting on the couch and was checking her phone. The device reflected the rankings of the game.. Her fingers nimbly clicked some commands, and the screen prompted various information.


    Meanwhile, Sofia paused and stretched her body. She finally took off all the covers of her bed and was about to put the replacement.


    "I''ve never heard of TXX.EN," she muttered.


    "Me too. So, I am checking the rankings now to do a little digging," Claire answered. "The squad is top 12 in the overall global ranking in our server. And the two players that have good coordination earlier are TXX.EN_PACE and TXX.EN_coral... here," Claire stood up from her seat and brought her phone in front of Sofia.


    "Ohh... Top 8 mage user and Top 5 fighter user. They have decent MMR too," Sofia commented after looking at the data that Claire presented.


    "Their mage and fighter combo were very hard to destroy. But in the late game, Ms. Jing Jing suggested a strategy that was very effective... hmmm... By the way, their fighter user also asked us during the match if we will participate in the regional tournament. Then, I told them that we are still undecided," Claire added.


    "AH, that is really a good coincidence to play with them in random matches," Sofia stated and returned her business of fixing her bed. Claire also kept her phone and helped her.


    After a while, Sofia''s phone vibrated. Claire was near her device and saw that it was an incoming call from Grace. "It''s the mayor''s daughter," she subconsciously said.


    "Grace?" Sofia mumbled as she answered the call.


    "Sofia! Hehe, are you busy? I am calling about your business registration. What is the name of your business in the intersection street again? It slipped my mind," Grace stated.


    "I''m not busy," Sofia replied. "What are the requirements to register a limited company in our place, Grace?" she thoughtfully asked. She already knew about the documents needed however, it would be safe if she pretended to ask for the details from Grace. In this way, she can prevent any suspicions.


    As for "limited", it is one of the business structures that Sofia was thinking to apply in their group. But she was still hesitant.


    She planned to make the four members of her squad the stockholders of their business and she will be the registered owner. But she was not certain if her members would agree with her arrangement.


    To put it simply, the business name that she planned to register was The Chronos Ltd.


    This term "Ltd" would also indicate that the assets of her members will be protected from the future debts, creditors, and other liabilities that the business would incur. Its purpose was clearly to reduce personal risk.


    "Ah... well, I''ll check the requirements here first. Then, I''ll send it to your email," Grace responded. "By the way, about the wedding this Saturday, we have a rehearsal this afternoon. I''ll send you the location too."


    "Okay, I will wait for your message. See you then," Sofia said before they ended the call.


    At that point, Sofia completely abandoned the idea of sleeping. She went to her bathroom and washed off the tiny red taint on the bed sheet. Then, she threw all linens in her washing machine that was situated in the corner beside the sink.


    "I''ll go to my place, Sof." Claire said and continued stalking the squad members of their last opponent while stepping out of the door.


    The email of Grace promoted on Sofia''s phone, and she skimmed the details while waiting for the washing machine to finish washing. She also told her members to wait for her after their second game. But her plan was no longer to play. Instead, she would discuss the business arrangement with them.


    Half an hour later, Sofia stood in front of her members as they listened to the discussion.


    "What I have in mind is that we will start with The Chronos Ltd. Then, after that, if our profit and earnings increase, we can open another line of business but it would be under your name. For example, Clark, you mentioned that you like baking. In the future, we will also open a pastry shop or something like that, and then it will be registered under your name. We will own chains of business depending on what you want to open," Sofia made her best effort to explain all her plans to them in the simplest possible way.


    Earlier, this place contained their noise of squealing "attack" and "retreat" signals. But now, the four members were completely silent.


    "What do you think? Do you agree with this arrangement?" Sofia asked while the four members blinked their eyes in perfect synchrony.


    "I agree," Claire was the first to respond. Then, the other three boys also nodded their heads.


    "Okay, then, I''ll tell Grace to proceed with the registration," Sofia said. She then replied to Grace''s email, thanking the lady for the information she sent as well as confirming the name of their business.


    "Then, what do we need to do, Sof?" Clark asked. Sofia just told them about her plan, but, there was no instruction on what her members should do.


    "First, let''s sign an agreement to finalize what we have discussed. I will create the documents so, you just continue your practice for now," Sofia said and took her seat too.


    "I''ll make the documents of your agreement, Sofia. You can review the file after," Jing Jing presented. She had been so idle and was just playing games with these teens. Somehow, she also felt guilty for not doing anything.


    "Thank you, Sister Jing! I have a draft of the clauses here," Sofia agreed and showed Jing Jing the file.


    "You''re welcome. I got this. You can play with them while waiting for me to finish. With your draft, I can make the file easily!" Jing Jing actively responded.


    Sofia smiled and then switched her attention to her members. "How''s your shooting last time, Joey?"


    It was the summer campaign of the swimwear that Joey presented to endorse. The payment was already forwarded to their bank account but Joey did not mention anything about his photo shoot.


    "Hehe, the photographer was so hot! Guys, you should see her! She could be a model! They also said that it will be officially released on or before the end of this month," Joey said. His expression sparkled with excitement.


    "Heh!" Stephen rolled his eyes. "Why am I not surprised at all?"


    Upon hearing Stephen''s remarks, Joey playfully glared at him. "It is true! It was a pity that I had no chance to talk with her. Otherwise, I would have asked for her number," he shrugged.


    "Maybe this girl will see you in the next tournament, Joey. They said that the competition will be broadcasted widely. Do your best, eh?" Claire responded while grinning at him.


    "Hahaha, I hope there is another shooting. Sof, put me again if another photo shoot will be offered to us," Joey eagerly suggested.


    "Haha, I will. It''s good that you are enjoying this modeling job. I will withdraw the money and give it to you tomorrow," Sofia replied. Naturally, she would not keep the money for it was only Joey who work hard for it.


    But Joey wave his hand and gestured for a ''no''. "Just add the money to our budget in the business, Sof. Don''t withdraw it... after all the endorsement is under our squad." he hurriedly expressed.


    "Okay," Sofia did not argue. "Did you have fun?"


    "Yes, yes! I had fun posing for pictures," Joey replied while imitating some of his poses.


    Stephen and Clark shook their heads while looking at him.


    "Also, there was someone who asked me if I want to do some acting for a side character of a TV drama. They gave me a piece of contact information just in case I will be interested," Joey said and took his wallet to show the calling card.


    "Oh, you were scouted! Joey, you will become a celebrity! Ehh, did you accept the offer?" Claire asked enthusiastically.


    "I don''t know. I thought I would ask Sofia first," Joey said.


    "It''s a great opportunity, Joey! Just be mindful that he nature of competition in the world of entertainment is different from the gaming world. In the gaming world, our great asset is the skills in gaming. But in the entertainment world, your worth will be measured using your physical appearance, your talent, and your value on screen. If you can handle the pressure, go for it," Sofia thoroughly replied.


    "Ohh.. what about the competition in business world, Sof?" Clark interrupted before Joey could make a reaction.


    ''The corporate world is a game of opportunities,'' Sofia momentarily thought. Then she earnestly looked at her members and spoke,


    "In the business world, it''s like playing chess. Every decision we make is a gamble that can either lead our business to the path of failure or success. The competition is how we earn and profit out of our decisions. In regards to our group, the value of our business will be measured by the customer''s satisfaction."

 Chapter 192 - Brain Cells: Cmd.exe Error

    The moment Sofia finished her words, her members appeared to have expanded their horizons. They looked at one another and nodded their heads.


    Claire crossed her legs and leaned comfortably on the couch. She took a deep breath and spoke, "That is some profound evaluation you have, Sof."


    "Not really. There are many dimensions to consider too. But, I''m too inexperienced to know it," Sofia giggled. This time, her words were sincere.


    "Being a celebrity seemed scarier than I initially imagined. I think there is no need to contact that number," Joey muttered, feeling conflicted about what he had heard.


    "It''s not scary. You already know what to expect. Why would you be scared?" Sofia stated.


    "Ahh... Sof, that''s exactly why I am scared now. Because I already know that there is so much pressure on the entertainment world," Joey defended. Innocence is indeed a bliss. If he had not known the risk, he would have already decided to venture the entertainment world. But now, he was reluctant and decided not to be bothered by the pressure of the industry.


    "Guys, there is competition everywhere. It''s normal. What matters the most is where our passion lies. Anyway, we are still students, and what we want to do today may change after we graduate. Let''s choose the path that makes us happy," Sofia spoke and then she shifted her gaze at Joey, "If acting makes you happy, don''t waste that chance, Joey. The real world might be terrifying, but that makes our living very interesting."


    "Only you would probably think of it as interesting, Sof," Claire commented with a reluctant expression on her face.


    "Hehe, don''t be so skeptical now, guys. I''ll give you three situations, alright. So you will understand why it is interesting," Sofia spoke and thought deeply.


    "Yes. Tell us, Sof!" Clark murmured. Her other members also waited for a while giving her their full attention.


    "Hmmn...Let''s see... In the eyes of non-gamer, the gaming world is complicated. Do you agree?" Sofia questioned.


    "Well, that''s true. With so many commands and combinations to memorize in the game, they would probably complain to have a headache," Clark took the initiative to respond.


    "Yes. On top of that, they have to familiarize the map of the game and the right build for the character. The non-gamer will get frustrated after series of defeats and would eventually stop playing. But to us, this stuff is nothing. If we will encounter defeat, we will be excited to improve our skills. Why? Because we are enjoying the game and so we are eager to learn new strategies and tactics. It does not matter how complicated the game is. What matters is how to conquer it," Sofia said.


    "Yeah," the members subconsciously agreed. Obviously, they could easily relate to it.


    "Same goes to the entertainment world. Celebrities would not mind the pressure of standing on the stage where the spotlight is focused on them. They will continue to pursue a perfect image for the people who believed in them because this makes them feel more alive," Sofia added while glancing at the clock on the wall. She had not yet forgotten that she had to attend the wedding rehearsal.


    "And in the corporate world, businessmen would simply take the risk between gaining or losing finances when they invest. Win or lose, they will continue to strive and do their best to reach their goals. Now, what do you think are the similarities of those three?" Sofia finished her statement with a question. She looked at them in the eyes while trying to read if they had fully grasped her words.


    In the middle of brainstorming, these four teens looked slightly troubled. It was as if their brain cells had just sent a signal of ''cmd.exe error'' to their brain. They just looked at Sofia unable to utter any response.


    Minutes passed by, and Sofia waited for any of them to speak. However, it was but Jing Jing who responded to Sofia with another question.


    "What is it? Hehe, Ms. Sofia, do tell us the similarity."


    "Hmmn... Whichever field, whatever career it is... there is something about what they are doing that excites them. And this is why life becomes interesting. Because, you and me, all of us have a different thing that excites us," Sofia easily replied.


    "Ohh..." the four teens nodded.


    "Very well said, Ms. Sofia," Jing Jing said with admiration.


    "Hehe, thank you, sister Jing. By the way, guys, I will be attending a wedding this 25th. You are also invited. But, since the bride asked me to be one of her bridesmaids, I will go to the rehearsal later," Sofia announced.


    "Oh my... could it be the wedding of the young master of the Lee Family and the mayor''s daughter?" Jing Jing reacted. She had heard of the wedding when she purchased a cake. But, she did not expect that they would be invited.


    "Yes! Sister Jing, you are really from the press. Even this private event, you are aware already. They kept this as a secret to the public, but Brent is inviting us to witness their union," Sofia stated.


    "Wow, these big figures... it''s like a wedding that literally symbolizes money and authority!" Claire commented. Indeed, it was such a powerful union of two distinguished families.


    "That''s right! Brent is wealthy, and Grace''s family holds the political power," Sofia agreed and took a glance at Stephen.


    The man raised his eyebrow after their eyes met. It was as if asking her a question, ''What?''


    Sofia slightly shook her head and looked away. Even though she had already mentioned this matter to Stephen before... she was still curious about his reaction now.


    "That''s so nice of them to join together," Jing Jing commented. "I have finalized the agreement that you have discussed earlier. Sofia, do you want to check them now?"


    "Yes!" Sofia replied and moved towards Jing Jing. After checking the content, she gave her a satisfactory smile. "This is accurate. Well done, sister Jing. Let''s forward this file to the front desk and have this printed."


    The front desk of the ground floor of their apartment provides students various services such as photocopying, printing, and scanning. Since neither Claire nor Sofia owned a printer machine, they would usually use this services in the front desk if they needed something.

 Chapter 193 - Playfully Poking Fun With One Another

    "Oh? This apartment is extending such convenience to their tenants? I''m jealous!" Jing Jing expressed with a wishful expression on her face after the document was sent via email.


    "Yeah, only this apartment has the kind service. The owners are wise. They can collect money for the rental fee from their building and they also have a sideline income since students would really ask for them to print or photocopy school papers almost every day," Sofia stated.


    This was indeed a smart approach from the perspective of business. To multiply the source of income despite using the same location of the establishment was a clever move.  And this would also be adapted to the Chronos establishment soon.


    "What time are you going out for the rehearsal, Sof?" Joey inquired while wondering if they could still continue to play. Their in-game characters were still stuck in the lobby as they were caught in the middle of chitchat.


    "After we sign the agreement, I''ll go. When I came back, I''ll join playing with you guys tonight," Sofia responded..


    "My parents will be here tonight, Sof. I can''t play," Claire stated while her eyes were still on the phone. "They just sent a text message that they will come over to check on me," she added and extended her arm to show Sofia the message.


    "Ohh... are you two already on the stage of meeting each parent? That''s impressive progress, eh?" Joey teased while grinning at Clark and Claire.


    As Clark caught Joey''s statement, he looked confused. His face resembled that of an innocent child who does not have any idea what''s happening. After few seconds, he leaned forward and whispered to Claire''s ear, "Are you going to introduce me to your parents?"


    "No, they always visit me if I can''t visit them," Claire slightly smiled.


    "Ohh... but, I wouldn''t mind if you introduce me to them later," Clark smirked and gave her a suggestive look.


    "Haha, then, you stay here. Do you guys want to stay too?" Claire asked the rest of the group.


    "Nahh, I think I''ll go to Stephen''s place. It had been a while since I last visited this friend!" Joey responded.


    "What a lie. You just visited me few days ago," Stephen shook his head. Surely, Joey and him were buddies even before they meet the other members of the Chronos squad. So, they usually hang out.


    "Oh, right. Then, you guys have some rest or study. Let''s play and practice tomorrow," Sofia told them.


    "By the way, guys, are you nervous about the regional tournament?" Clark suddenly opened up another topic before they could respond to Sofia.


    "Well, there is no official list of participants that are announced yet. So, I haven''t really felt the pressure," Joey shrugged.


    "I heard that there will be several modifications on the map during the next tournament. Maybe it''s a new theme? AHHH... It would be very exciting to play," Claire also answered.


    "Ahh, Claire, that''s because you are good!" Clark commended her.


    "Ahah! Clark, you''re just biased because you like Claire! We are good too! Come on, praise us, bro!" Joey muttered to tease him. Poor Clark, he only grunted and turned away.


    Just then, a glint of a sly smile appeared on Claire''s face. She slowly stood from her seat and raised her hands in the air. She faced Joey''s direction and started waving her hand as if it was some sort of a gesture from an ancient ceremonial dance.


    "Here are your praises... god of support and god of fighter... HAHAHA, Here are your praises... god of support and god of fighter... HAHAHA."


    Clark joined her and their waves of laughter were too addicting that Jing Jing and the rest of their friends were giggling in their seats. Their voices already reached even from the outside of Claire''s place. If it was nighttime, for sure, Claire would receive dozens of complaints from her neighbors. Luckily, most of the tenants were out and had not yet come back.


    On the other hand, only Joey had a dark expression on his face. It would seem that his plan of teasing Clark had backfired.


    "Stop, stop, stop," Joey gestured them to stop. "The two of you are really destined to be together. Even this kind of thing... ahh!"


    "That''s the sign," Stephen suddenly commented.


    "What sign?" Joey asked him and had sensed that this man would also have his way of poking fun at him.


    "Hehehe... it''s a sign that you have to find your girl so you''ll have someone to defend you in this kind of battle," Stephen chuckled.


    "Psh! I don''t need a girl to defend me," Joey frowned.


    "That''s not the kind of defense that I am talking about," Stephen crossed his arms on his chest and gave his friend a challenging look.


    "Aiyaa... okay, let''s stop now. Anyway, all of you are good. I am still below average..." Clark quickly said. Then, he looked at Sofia in the eye and asked, "How about you, Sof?"


    "Nah... Sofia? Nervous? That word would never be associated with her," Claire proudly announced as she returned to her seat. She was still trying to catch her breath after the brief execution that she made, but her words were full of certainty.


    "Right, right. This is our squad leader that you are asking. Getting nervous is not part of her vocabulary," Joey quickly joined.


    "Eh, just wait a moment. I am here in front of you. Stop exaggerating your praises otherwise, my liver will explode from it," Sofia stated.


    "I also agree that you are very confident, Sof. But what are your personal thoughts of this regional tournament?" Clark murmured.


    "Your skill is not below average, Clark. There is no benchmark of what is average and what''s above it or below because you will play with us. We are a team. As long as you coordinate and cooperate during the battle, we can maximize our input and snatch the victory," Sofia said in a serious tone.


    Clark''s statement of comparison may have been just a casual remark but Sofia would not allow them to dismiss it or ignored his views. Otherwise, it might develop and cause him to gain insecurity of their squad.


    "Yes, I will do my best to practice and coordinate with you, guys," Clark agreed.


    "We have a direct invite from the organizers of the tournament. So, we will be able to skip the elimination round during the first two days of the tournament. I think by the time that we got to play our first match, we already adjusted with other gamers," Sofia told them.


    "I wonder which district the regional tournament will be held in," Claire mumbled.


    "There is no official venue yet. It''s actually odd that they had not told us the details. In pc matches, all pieces of information are already ready once the registration starts," Joey responded.


    The plan of the upcoming regional tournament was surprisingly an extensive battle that would last for one week more or less. But only the registration period was decided for those squad who had not received a direct invite. It would end on the 27th of the month.


    As for the exact venue of the regional esport tournament and the actual date it would commence, there were no official announcements from the organizers yet.


    Unbeknownst to them, the reason was not as simple as the organizer had not yet decided this matter. But, it was because the district election was fast approaching and it''s less than 3 months away.


    Mayors in every district had offered to host this tournament to boost their names to the public. Various politicians had expressed their interest to make donations for the game. It was indeed a good way to make their names appear good to the citizens.


    This made the organizers felt very troubled since they did not want to involve politics in gaming. Hence, they had not responded to the offers, making the official venue of the competition as well as its date still unknown to the public.


    While the group was immersed in talking, the front desk on the ground floor contacted Sofia and told her that the files were ready for pick up.


    "Okay, I''ll just get our documents real quick," Sofia said and sprinted out of the door.


    After Sofia left, the topic of discussion had changed once more. This time, it returned to Claire''s parents and Clark meeting them.


    "What should I buy for your parents, Claire? Give me some idea," he anxiously asked.


    "You don''t need to give anything to them. It is even better if they won''t know your family background," Claire stated.


    "Why is it? Are you ashamed of my family background?" Clark asked. Ah, but that would be the most ridiculous idea if Claire would be ashamed of his family background. Didn''t parents want their daughters to be with a better man?


    "Nah, my parents would eat your money. They are my parents and I love them. But trust me, they might act nicely but sometimes, their request is out of line. So, just don''t mention anything about your fortunes and wealth. I don''t want that matter to be the reason for our future conflict," Claire explained.


    "It won''t be a problem," Clark debated.

 Chapter 194 - [Bonus ] Clarks Worries

    "How can you be so sure? Sofia told me about the possible reaction that I get once we are in a relationship, Clark... It''s---" Claire paused. A glint of shyness sparked on her expression for just a brief of seconds before she gathered her composure.


    "Huh? Reactions? What did Sofia say?" Clark directly asked and looked at her in the eyes.


    "Hmmn, Sofia reminded me that--- ehem! Your family is rich, Clark,  And I am just a commoner. So, I have to be cautious about money," Claire anxiously answered. Her eyes moved to look on the floor before she released a long sigh.


    "Money is not an issue to my family, Claire. If you agree to make our relationship official, you don''t need to be cautious about money. We have more than enough," Clark assured her..


    Joey and Stephen sat still and secretly listened to the two. Jing Jing was also observing Clark''s confession.


    "That''s easy for you to say that! But, what if your parents does not like me?" Claire pouted.


    "Is that why you are reluctant to make our relationship official, Claire? Because you are afraid that my parents won''t accept you in my family?" Clark interrogated. He suddenly had a realization


    Claire was silent and could not help but remember her conversation with Sofia before. She knew that it was out of the concern and this made her felt wary.


    Sofia did give her a warning before about the possibility if she would agree to be with Clark. Because the boy was rich, it was fine if they are friends. But once their relationship will progress to a much serious level, his parents would see her as a threat.


    Yes, Sofia knew that in the eyes of most rich parents, their children must always be matched to the same level as them. A commoner girl matching with their perfect son will be seen as a gold digger or opportunist.


    "My parents are not like those old people who judge and criticize others easily. They will accept you, Claire," Clark emphasized.


    Claire stared at Clark with a conflicted expression on her face. She appeared to have lost in words and was in a momentary daze.


    Just then, Sofia had returned outside the unit from the front desk. She was holding five folders in her hand and halted her steps at the doorway.


    For some unknown reason, her timing was perfect that she overheard everything in their conversation right after she was about to go inside.


    Sofia stood straight. She then adjusted her grip from the files in her hand and gazed at Claire.


    A thought suddenly came in her mind, ''It''s only natural that Clark had this kind of mindset. His parents treat him well and always supported his decision. They even let him join our group. But as for picking their daughter-in-law, that''s a totally different story.''


    She slowly shook her head and could only pray that Claire would not be na?ve as she grow older.


    "I have the printed agreement with me, guys! Let''s have the documents finalized!" Sofia announced moved closer to them. She quickly distributed the folders to all of her members and they were also obliged to get their pens.


    Clark looked up and did not pursue the conversation with Claire. He started reading the content of the file inside the folder right away. The agreement was only one page but Sofia clipped two copies.


    "Man, let me borrow your pen?" Joey secretly leaned closer and whispered to Stephen. The latter just signed the contract without even reading the title of the agreement.


    "Where''s your pen?" Stephen asked with one of his eyebrows arched upwards after his signature was placed on the two copies of his folder. He then tossed his pen to Joey.


    "I forgot where I placed it," Joey answered and also signed the agreement in the same manner as how Stephen did.


    Sofia gave them a look. "That contract indicates that you will donate your kidney," she said.


    "AHH! WHAT?" Joey was completely stunned and started to find the stipulation about kidney donations. But even so, he had already placed his signature.


    "Sofia is joking," Stephen nudged his friend.


    "AHH... Sof, you --- don''t scare me! I almost panicked!" Joey complained with a deep frown on his face.


    "Hah! You should be! Why are you signing the papers without reading what''s written on it?" Sofia mumbled, ready to scold at the two.


    "Ahaha... it''s because the documents come from you, Sof," Joey awkwardly replied.


    Sofia placed both of her hands on her waist and looked domineering.


    "The two of you, remember this always. Don''t sign documents without reading it first. It''s not important who gave the documents. What''s important is your signatures and what you had agreed on the writing," she shook her head in disappointment..


    "Yes, we will! It won''t happen again," Joey said and Stephen nodded.


    "Good! Well, back to the agreement. Notice that there are two copies of the agreement in your folders. One is for you to keep that copy. The other file will be kept in our office once we have a place. Since we have no office yet, I will keep the documents," Sofia stated.


    Her members immediately complied. They took one of the two files out from their folders and handed it to her. Sofia quickly collected the documents and checked their signature, one after another.


    "It''s all good. Nice!" Sofia offered a small smile as she looked at them in the eye.


    "You may continue playing, guys, I will go back to my unit so I can prepare for the wedding rehearsal now. Enjoy the rest of your day!" Sofia added while glancing at the wall clock.


    The time had already reached 4:06 PM and based on Grace, the rehearsal would supposedly start at 5:00 PM. She had less than an hour to change his clothes and commute towards the venue.


    "I''ll send you out," Stephen quickly presented. Because of his issues with the mayor''s daughter, it was already given that he won''t accompany her.


    "Oh, I''ll take you there, Sof. I''ll drive you," Jing Jing also offered.


    "Ahh... thank you Steph. Thank you, sister Jing. There is no need to send me. I need to be alone too so that I can think clearly about the operation of our business. You guys just take a rest. Bye!" Sofia smiled at the two and continued to walk out.


    "Take care, Sof!" Claire and the rest waved back at her.


    "Wait, I have a concern to speak to  you, Sof!" Clark called. Then he glance at Claire and said, "I''ll be back."


    Sofia waited for Clark until he reached her side. "What is it, Clark?"


    "Sof, it''s about what you have said to Claire. I am hesitant to speak to you, but, I think it is better to be straightforward," Clark answered.


    "I don''t get what you mean?" Sofia responded.


    "You basically made her hesitate to have an official relationship with me! My parents are not the kind of people that you think they are," Clark said. There was a grain of anger in his tone as he confronted Sofia.


    "Ohh... sorry. It''s not my intention to influence Claire so she would hesitate to make your relationship official. I support the two of you," Sofia simply replied. Her tone was full of sincerity.


    "I just don''t appreciate that you are making up stories about my parents. And then making Claire fear to be in a relationship with me. My parents will accept Claire," Clark expressed with full of certainty.


    "Clark, you have misunderstood. Claire is my friend. I was simply giving her an idea of a possibility. She deserves to be aware of the world that you live," Sofia replied. If only Stephen was calmer, he would probably caught Sofia''s odd response. However, because he was too anxious to defend his parents, he totally did not mind much of Sofia''s words.


    "I get that you are protecting her. But, I won''t allow anyone to hurt Claire too. I won''t harm her or put her in danger. I love her, Sof!" Clark confessed.


    "I know. But don''t rush that sensation of love, Clark. Admiration and affection are two different thing. It''s better if you build a solid foundation of this feeling so that no one would be able to compete you in Claire''s heart," Sofia said. She had finally arrived at the door of her unit. She fished out the key and offered for Clark to get inside.


    "No need. I am finished telling you about what I felt," Clark said and slowly stepped back.


    "Okay. I''m glad that you talked to me about what you felt, Clark. Anyway, Claire is not afraid to make your relationship official. But, she cares for her family. And the attitude of her parents is rather complicated. It may cause to strain your relationship," Sofia stated.


    She had seen at the memories of the original Sofia how Claire''s parents trait her friend. The mother was the definition of a bad opportunist. Those kinds of people who had no qualms to use other people''s resources for their own benefit. And if a person is no longer useful to her, she would abandon the person and find another one.


    "Anyway, I will meet Claire''s parents later, Sof. I will be the judge to that," Clark firmly said.


    Sofia nodded her head and replied, "Mmn. Just take it easy and don''t rush things."


    "Okay," Clark agreed. "I''ll go back to Claire now. Enjoy the rest of your day at the wedding rehearsal, Sof!" he added and walked away.

 Chapter 195 - Last Game Of The Day: Playing Different Roles (1)

    "Let''s play one more game? Hehehe... Last game for today," Stephen said while staring at the screen of his phone.  He was checking the interface of his character stats and looked at his account inventory. His fingers were flipping through various of commands on the screen.


    "Okay! Let''s wait for Clark to return. By the way, why don''t we try a different role this time? Let''s shuffle just for fun," Joey grinned. They had been playing consistently to their roles. For some reason, the idea roused his interest.


    "I''m okay with it. How about you play as a tank and I will play as an assassin!" Stephen agreed. Then, he glanced at Claire and said, "Wanna play a marksman, Claire?"


    "Nah... I will be a cancer once I change a role," Claire complained and formed her lips into a thin line. A cancer member in competitive gaming simply meant that instead of being able to play well or carry the team, she would be their burden instead.


    It was not that Claire cannot play another role. She had tried playing different characters before.  Her reason was completely about her gaming style. Playing solo and roaming for kills in the map excites her more than clashing. She was aware that her gameplay is not suitable for other roles.


    "Ahahaha, no worries. We are just having fun. Play marksman, Claire. Then Clark can play a fighter. Ms. Jing Jing will be our mage!" Joey finished.


    "Hahaha, yes, let''s try this arrangement. Come, I''ll send invites to the lobby now," Stephen urged and the prompt message of his invitation displayed quickly to the screen of Claire and Joey.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, you are not online?" Stephen asked after realizing that Jing Jing''s account cannot be found on his friend''s list panel.


    "Wait for a while. I logged out my account earlier," Jing Jing said. Although she was holding her phone, the screen on it was still on the progress bar with a 34% loading...


    At the same time, the figure of Clark then emerged in the doorway. Joey swiftly waved his hand to signal him to move in haste. "Clark! Hurry! We are going to play now! This time, your role is a fighter!"


    Clark was initially consumed with the thoughts about his ''conversation'' with Sofia. He was a little bit absentminded. But, after hearing Joey''s last sentence, his consciousness snapped. "WHAT? Brother, I am still developing my gaming skills in the mage role. Now, you want me to switch with a fighter? That''s definitely a mess!"


    His objection was made clear. But Joey just grinned and waved a hand. "Don''t mind it, We are just having fun. HAHAHA"


    "We are not in a competition anyway. Consider this as exploring other characters ability," Stephen stated.


    "How about I pick the character that you will play, Clark? Hmmmmn, use the Thrower. That character has the ability to toss enemies and allies to a different location," Joey said.


    "Okay... I''ll try," Clark agreed as he accepted to invite that Stephen sent for him.


    "Alright, I''m inside the lobby," Jing Jing also announced.


    "Let''s go!" Stephen declared as he clicked the ''find match'' button on the screen. The countdown quickly appeared on the screen and it only took 20 seconds for them to find their opponents.


    The parameters of random matching to find an opponent is quite complicated. And like other existing online games, this game would utilize the MMR of the players to determine their best suited enemy to bring balance in the battlefield.


    Otherwise, it would be unfair for the newbies if the system will give them pro players opponents.


    The matching environment and the player''s gaming experience will surely be compromised.


    Naturally, the opponents of every team cannot be predicted. Only the system would select it for them. But, there were two possibilities to anticipate the level of their opponents skills for an unbalanced group depending on their luck as a team.


    The first possibility is that, if the MMR is unbalanced - meaning, some members have high MMR while others are low level in the group, there would be a tendency that the system will match them based on the rate of the player''s highest MMR. The system will prioritize the highest MMR.


    In their case, Claire had the highest MMR in the Chronos squad. If they are unlucky, the system would surely give them opponents who would be at the same skill set level as Claire.


    This was oftentimes the reason why some modest pro players would play using a different account if they will have a duo playing with them that is not the same level as their main account. It was the best way so that their partner won''t get stressed against high-skilled players.


    The second possibility would emphasize great luck because the chance of this to happen is very small. In the random matching of the unbalanced team, if the group is lucky, the system will match them based on the team member with the lowest MMR.


    Everyone''s attention was already on their phone. The opponents immediately flashed on their mobile screens and revealed that it was a squad too. Mighty Wrecker Squad.


    After which, the banning started from the opponent''s side before it alternately change.


    "What character should I ban?" Claire asked them as she was the first person in the squad to use the ban.


    "Just ban whatever character. Hehe, we are just playing around anyway," Joey casually answered.


    "If Sofia knows that we are not practicing religiously, will she get angry?" Jing Jing asked them. She was worried that this group was not actually serious with thier practice.


    "Nah, this is actually what she said, Ms. Jing Jing. Sofia told us to try to use other roles in the game so that... if our main character will be banned during the tournament, then, we have other options," Stephen replied.


    "Yeah, Sofia will not get angry. But this match will be a hell of a mess! HAHA... Ms. Jing Jing... you will witness me doing some cancer gaming!" Claire stated while giggling loudly.


    "Just pay attention to the map and avoid getting killed," Joey said after he made a ban.


    After the random ban, they finally got on the step of choosing their roles and characters to play. The group followed what they had previously planned.


    "I will choose the Archer as a marksman," Claire announced and locked the character on her screen.


    "Okay! I will be using the Hook," Joey stated as he picked the tank role.


    After few more minutes, everyone had selected their characters. Clark did use the Thrower character and Stephen picked the assassin role. He was using the character of a cursed swordmaster that can utilize demonic doppelgangers. Lastly, Jing Jing picked the summoner. The same character that Sofia was practicing.


    The Chronos Squad Line-up Arrangement:


    Claire - Marksman user.


    Clark - Fighter user.


    Stephen - Assassin user.


    Joey - Tank user.


    Jing Jing - Mage user.


    Claire maneuvered her Archer and it went straight to the jungle area. It was a habit for her to farm first.


    Stephen joined Claire in the jungle area since he was using an assassin. And jungling was more beneficial for him so he could quickly build an item.


    "Ahaha... sorry, sorry," Claire mumbled and her Archer quickly moved to the bottom lane.


    Since Joey was the tank user, he joined Stephen to help him farm easily.


    Jing Jing took the middle lane and Clark went to the top lane.


    By the time their characters obtained the ultimate skills, their quirkiness was instantly discerned by their enemies.


    "Let''s ambush their bottom lane! Their marksman is on solo," one of their opponents said and signaled for his team to gather. He was the fighter user and the initiator of their team.


    "The marksman is not in the bottom lane. It''s in the bush near the mid. I noticed its shadow earlier," the enemy mage player announced.


    "AHH... Yes, no one is in the bottom lane now! I will try to attack their defense tower here and push," the fighter opponent said.


    He was completely oblivious that Claire''s marksman was semi-roaming the map. She was just using the grasses to hide her presence and tried to find an opportunity to find kills. And when the enemy mage made an announcement about her location, she had actually left the mid and was moving back to the bottom lane.


    The fighter enemy relied on their creeps and was about to attack the tower. But, a rain of arrows from Claire''s second skill suddenly dropped from the sky and pierced his body. Not only the damage was high, but it also had an after effect. He was also stunned within the range of the tower.


    This timing was perfectly calculated by Claire. The fighter opponent could not move when all his allied creeps were eliminated. Putting him in a dire situation for the tower started to attack him.


    "F*ck! You said that their marksman is in the mid... why is it attacking me now?" the fighter user complained.


    "I just told you that I saw its shadow on the bush. I did not know that the marksman already returned to its position!" the mage ally defended.


    "I''ll die! Argh! How did she get the time to come back this fast?!" the fighter user expressed.


    He had accepted his fate. Even if he had his ultimate ready, since the rain of arrows took his chance to move and cast it, his HP was quickly drained.


    First Blood!


    "I don''t like this anymore! Damn, I plan not to have any deaths in this match. But now, I am the first to get killed!" he angrily said. His companions could even hear him gritting his teeth out of disappointment.


    "It''s still early to quit. Come on bro, have some respect," the mage user told him in fear that this fighter user would just go AFK.


    "Let''s target that marksman once I revived. I will definitely get my revenge for killing me!" the fighter user stated.


    On the side of the Chronos squad, Stephen curled his lips into a smile and briefly looked at Claire. "Definitely not a cancer gaming," he mentioned.


    "Nice, Claire! Assassin or marksman role, you are really a first blooder!" Joey commended her too.


    Claire only giggled at Joey and did not refute to Stephen. She did mention before they started playing that she would be a cancer in this match!

 Chapter 196 - Last Game Of The Day: Playing Different Roles (2)

    "Ms. Claire is too modest. You have taken the first kill even though you have only three items!" Jing Jing expressed while mentally clapping. Her mage character was still in the middle lane and continued to kill the last two creeps.


    This first kill from Claire had been habitual to the team. But since Jing Jing was still new, she felt very excited. Since her hands were busy, she could only make applause in her thoughts.


    Stephen''s assassin continued to roam and already got ahead of the rest. He was almost full build. Once an assassin could freely get buff and earn gold, it would naturally gain insane damage and would be advantageous to the group.


    As for Joey''s tank, since Stephen had enough damage, he decided to move to the top lane and joined Clark. Initially, he wanted to assist Claire.. But, after the first blood, he knew that Claire can play on the bottom lane alone.


    "You haven''t figured the combo of your fighter character, bro?" Joey asked while observing Clark''s attacks.


    A combo meant a combination of steps of skills to use consequently during the attack to maximize the gameplay.


    Every character in the game had a different ideal combo that a player could use depending on their gaming style. And it could also be used in a group clash such as chain stun from mage to the fighter to the marksman to finish off an enemy easily.


    "I''m just guessing here and there. Still experimenting with this character''s skills. Right now, I''m using the second skill to buff the speed and then the first skill to deal damage," Clark replied.


    Joey nodded his head. "That is also good. But you can''t kill an opponent by using that two skills only."


    "What is the right combination of skills for this character? Hehe, tell me so I can practice," Clark eagerly asked.


    This time, their enemy was missing on the top lane. So the two of them easily attacked the tower after their creeps marched forward to the territory of the enemy.


    "If there is an enemy later, the combo should naturally start at the ultimate skill to toss your enemy. Then, use the passive attack and follow it with the first skill, this way, you can immobilize the enemy for two minutes. The first skill will give one second of stun while the passive will trigger to duplicate the effect. After that, you can continue to use your passive skills until the enemy is dead. If it''s still alive, use your second skill to buff your speed and chase the enemy to finish it off," Joey thoroughly explained to Clark and even described every effect of the fighter skills.


    "Ohh... Okay, I will try that," Clark agreed.


    "Where are the enemy guys? The top lane is abnormally unguarded," Joey alerted all of them. They have now destroyed the opponent''s initial tower of defense. They pursued the second tower, and no one tried to interrupt them.


    "The mage enemy is in middle lane. But, I did not notice other players here," Jing Jing immediately answered. She maintained the defensive gameplay and was still trying to evaluate the opponent in front of her.


    "They are at the bottom lane, waiting to ambush me," Claire responded.


    For a skilled assassin player, Claire was undoubtedly the master of ambushing her target. Even if she did not have visibility of her opponents, her instinct was more than enough to determine if there was danger in her lane.


    "Let me teleport in the bottom lane. Let''s go, Clark. It''s time to apply the combo that I told you," Joey said and quickly used his teleportation skill towards the location of Claire.


    In just a few seconds, Joey''s tank stood near Claire''s archer.


    "Where are you, Clark! Come!" Joey called again after realizing that their fighter was still on the top lane.


    "I don''t have teleport. Let me just run to the bottom lane real quick," Clark stated and consequently used the speed buff of the fighter''s second skills. In the river of the map, his character swiftly dashed from the top lane to the middle lane and then finally arrived at the bottom lane.


    "Where are they hiding, Claire? Have you noticed their shadows?" Joey asked while trying to check the mini-map on the front left side of his mobile screen. His index finger tapped to several locations but there were no signs of the enemy too.


    "If my prediction is right, there should be three enemies here. They are hiding on the grass just beside that wall on the right side," Claire replied. Her eyelids fluttered twice as her archer continued to shoot the creeps.


    "I will try to hook the grass and see if I can catch! Hahaha," Joey excitedly said and cast the skill to the grass. Those three enemies quickly ran away seeing that his tank character was executing a pattern of movements that would hint to those enemies that a hook will soon be cast.


    "Ohh!!! I was too slow to use the hook. They noticed me. Sofia is really good at using this character. It''s so hard to even use the hook without the enemy noticing the animation effect," Joey lamented after his hook returned to his side empty. "Nevermind, let''s chase them. Clark, use your second skill to run fast and toss one enemy here," he quickly commanded.


    On the side of their enemy, the three players gnashed their teeth in anger. They were so excited to ambush Claire''s marksman and were waiting for her to enter the range of their tower.


    They plan to use the same attack that she utilized to get the first blood. But, who would have thought that Claire''s companion would suddenly emerge on her side?


    Their ambush plan was instantly scrambled even before they could execute it.


    "Damn! They found us!" the fighter user said while turning away.


    "This must be a new map hack!" one of their opponents accused right away.


    "Hah! That''s true! How did they noticed that we are hiding on the grass other than relying on cheat?!" the tank player protested.


    This time, game cheats started to spread but the developers of the game were also quick to ban those accounts that were caught hacking. And the gaming company have placed additional software to prevent hacking.


    However, with the numbers of users growing rapidly to play the game, new hacks and cheats were also bound to emerge.


    Clark''s fighter moved at an abnormal pace that he quickly got closer to the marksman enemy.


    "Craaaaap! That thrower''s speed will catch us up... Ah! Hurry! Hurry! Retreat!" their marksman user instantly pressed a button and flickered right away to avoid being thrown back to the enemy''s side.


    After the marksman find an escape route, the fighter was left behind.


    "Sh*t! Not again!!!" the fighter user said. His screen moved to an angle that gave him the perspective of the ground while his body was suspended in the air.


    Clark''s fighter indeed caught him and throw him directed to the side of Joey. Before the enemy could land on the ground, a chain of attacks that produced arrows from Claire''s archer followed to strike him.


    "Good, Clark! You have used the ultimate skill of the thrower perfectly! Nice!" Joey praised Clark for executing the skill well. Being the expert in using a fighter character, Joey also knew that it''s not simple to use the ultimate skill of the thrower.


    While the three of them were finishing off this enemy, Stephen''s assassin was also pursuing those two others who tried to find an escape. They had not noticed Stephen so when they turned to the jungle area, they were greeted with countless swords that quickly drained their HPs.


    Double Kill!


    "Aww, you have executed that role well, Steph!" Joey stated after the notification of two successive kills followed to appear on their screen.


    "So basic. I am full build now. Only one hit and my critical damage is enough to end their lives!" Stephen grinned and all of them laugh at this remarks.


    "You cheaters! We will report you to the GM after this match!" the fighter user that had just gotten his second death was beyond irritated. He suddenly yelled in front of his mobile phone. His eyes were glaring coldly at Claire''s archer.


    Nothing could appease him for he felt that it was too unfair to have cheaters on the game. This player even got the urge to throw his phone across his desk. His feelings were surely valid but his accusation was completely wrong.


    "Bro, calm down! This is just a random game," His companions tried to console him.


    "Hmmph! Make sure that you guys also report them for cheat, okay?" the man persisted.


    "Okay, okay.... do you still want to continue this match? I think it''s pointless to play... We can just concede. Anyway, if they are cheating, there is no chance for us to win. We will just waste our time," the tank user commented.


    "Yeah, let''s end this unfair play and teach these hackers some lesson," the fighter agreed. He then took the initiative to issue the surrender and the group quickly voted yes for it.


    "That was rather an unsatisfactory game. Why did they concede? One more match?" Joey complained and hinted to his members to play again. This last game of the day does not feel to be the last one at all if the result was too easy.


    "Uhh... my parents will be here anytime soon," Claire reminded them. Even if they were unwilling to stop playing, they had no choice.

 Chapter 197 - Temporary Suspension Of Accounts

    "That''s alright, guys. Besides, Stephen had said earlier that it''s our last game for today..." Clark reminded them too. But deep down he was starting to have cold sweat as the idea of meeting Claire''s parents started to make him anxious.


    "Last games are really bound to have another last game. Hehe, it will be a loop! But, I guess we will call it a day for now. Hehe, Clark is meeting his in-laws. Good luck bro," Joey grinned and raised his eyebrows knowingly. The air around them was very silvery. Stephen grinned and nodded his head.


    "Well, if you are envious now, then, I can try to make arrangements and introduce you to my cousins," Clark rebutted as he curled his lips into a sly smile..


    "Psh! I don''t lack girls. You don''t need to worry about my love life!" Joey pouted. Truth be told, the majority of his fans were obviously girls. And right now, he was the most famous player among all members of the Chronos squad. He even outshined Sofia and Claire in terms of the fan base.


    "Hehe, you just missed a good opportunity. This offer will surely be available anytime, in case you change your mind," Clark continued to tease him.


    "What opportunity? To be disturbed constantly by nagging rich kids? No, thanks! I can only appreciate the beauty but once they started to show their true color, it would be a major headache for me," Joey snorted and finally turned serious. After their unsatisfactory victory, they just set aside all their devices and quickly engage in conversation.


    "Hehe, so, you two will hang out together. Don''t make trouble for Sofia," Claire meaningfully said. Who knows where these two would go after. It was better for her to remind them that her friend was already handling a lot on her plate.


    "Nah... well just probably play again in Stephen''s place until we get tired," Joey brushed his hair and then took a deep breath. He started to gather his things in his bag for them to take a leave quickly.


    They just started to volley some jokes when Jing Jing''s expression suddenly looked sour. After winning, she did not join the conversation of these youths. Instead, she paid extra attention to her phone. But, out of a sudden, her screen turned gray and all the panels were unavailable to select.


    "That''s odd! It''s not functioning..." Jing Jing mumbled to herself. She could not understand why her mobile phone screen turned gray.


    "What''s the matter, Ms. Jing Jing?" Claire thoughtfully asked when she noticed Jing Jing''s expression.


    "My game interface seems not functioning! Is it my cellphone? It''s really odd," Jing Jing answered right away. There was no notification about the sudden oddness in her screen, so, she could only assume that something was wrong with her phone


    Because the other members had let the screen of their phone be filled with a VICTORY window which appeared after their opponent withdraw from the game. Their screen was stuck like this. And only Jing Jing had really known about the lack of access to her account.


    "I remember buying a phone with low storage. The game would crash every time I play on it," Joey stated.


    A few seconds later, Jing Jing was quick to exit the existing window and her screen showed an odd notification. There was a square message board containing a temporary suspension of her account.


    "My account is suspended temporarily? Huh? I don''t understand this!" Jing Jing uttered in full disbelief. It was her first time to encounter a suspension of an account, so, she was completely at a loss of what just happened.


    "Let me see, Ms. Jing Jing. I have never heard of temporary suspension," Claire shared. "I am curious how it looks," Claire mumbled and moved her head near Jing Jing to take a peek at her screen. Jing Jing leaned closer and then showed her the entire message.


    The message was written in the tiniest possible font that was crammed in the square message board. Still, its content was actually long.


    Claire stared at the intro of the message for a long time before she decided to speak it loudly,


    "Notice of Suspension!


    Your account is suspended for 23:56:04 seconds due to numerous reports of hacking activity. The game manager will evaluate your account and will send you an email with the evaluation result. We do not condone hacking and we promote fair play of the game environment."


    Clark and Joey snapped their heads in Claire''s direction right away. They were abruptly overwhelmed by the sudden feeling of anger and disappointment.


    "I just never encountered getting this type of problem. What should I do?" Jing Jing admitted and asked them.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, once this notification appears, it''s really a problem! This means you can only play the game after the countdown is finished!" Stephen stated.


    "Those chicken players must have reported our accounts using cheats! How dare they accuse us!" Joey clenched his palms in a fist.


    "But why would the game give this 24hrs suspension if the account will be reported?" Joey wondered.


    In the past, the game would usually give a 5 minutes delay for the account before it could enter to matching again. In his mind, this 24hrs suspension just for investigation was completely out of logic.


    "Yeah, normally, it''s just a few minutes to ban an account that was reported for cheating! Then, if the player is found guilty, he would be ban to play the game forever," Clark speculated.


    "Hah! They take hacking seriously. But the 24 hrs is really unreasonable! What if some random players would just troll their opponent because of defeating them and began abusing the report feature, that would be ridiculous!" Stephen stated.


    At this point, the group had not yet realized that it was not just Jing Jing who would have this notification. They were still too focused on the duration of the suspension.


    After several minutes of speaking their opinions, Joey suddenly realized something. "Wait! This doesn''t seem right! Ms. Jing Jing is only on the middle lane and did not even get a kill. How did those chicken players report Ms. Jing Jing?"


    "Hmmn, there is indeed no reason for her account to be banned? The last time we play, Ms. Jing Jing is playing smoothly. How could those opponents got to do this to her!"


    As he said this, he closed the VICTORY window and saw the same square notification board. "Ohhh... f*ck!!! They have reported all of us! Check your account!" he urged them.


    "Yeah, I am suspended too. What a bad joke!" Stephen gritted his teeth.


    Clark quickly pressed his fingers to the screen to see if his account was also suspended. His face instantly turned red in anger, "This is bulsh*t! Why is this game suspending us when we are not using a hack! It''s really an abuse of report feature!"


    "Let''s try to call their gaming service number and explain to them," Claire suggested without glancing at them. His eyes were also fixated on the notification message on his phone.


    "Even if we explain to them, they will probably just tell us to wait for the result. Never mind, it''s just 24 hours," Jing Jing stated and put her phone in her bag.


    "F*ck this! Argh! Imagine if this will happen during the tournament. What are those developers trying to think of implementing this 24hrs suspension! Are they so paranoid? Useless!!!" Joey vented his anger to the game developers and cursed the non-stop.


    "Calm down. Let''s tell Ms. Sofia about this first," Claire stated and started typing a chat message.


    "Okay, I''m too disappointed with this long suspension. It''s better if I go to my home," Joey stated. "See you around, pals! Stephen, let''s go!" Joey muttered.


    Stephen stood from his seat and place his phone in his pocket. "Enjoy, bro!" he tapped Clark''s shoulder while giving a sincere smile to him. Then, the two left while Jing Jing was trailing behind them.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, did Sofia mentioned to you the official date of our business operation?" Joey curiously asked without looking at her.


    "Miss Sofia is just waiting for the proper documents to be compiled first before we operate the business. Once she got all the legal documents needed, then, she will surely start operating the business,"  Jing Jing proudly responded.


    "Oh... Okay.  I am also excited to think of the operation of our business. And since our gaming accounts were temporarily suspended, it''s good if we can enhance a real-life skill," Stephen expressed.


    "Me too! I am excited for the first day of our business! I hope we will be lucky!" Joey chuckled as they reached outside the building.


    "Are you sure you won''t hang out with me in my place?" Stephen asked him.


    "Positive. I''d better go check my family too and if I''m lucky my parents would probably cook for me too!" Joey stated.


    "Take care, Ms. Jing Jing!" the two of them called Jing Jing.


    "Bye!" Jing Jing waved at them before getting inside her car. She then started the engine and left.

 Chapter 198 - [Bonus ] A Fist - Fight

    Stephen and Joey were about to cross the opposite road when a commotion suddenly broke just a few meters away from where they stood.


    "Fight! Fight!"


    Few people were yelling as if inciting a riot. Then, those who were in the pedestrians started to gather.


    "There''s a brawl outside the convenience store!" Joey spoke with a startled tone. He then grabbed Stephen''s arm and dragged the man to check the fight.


    "This fight is none of our business! Aren''t you going to catch a bus?" Stephen complained. He was also curious but his curiosity did not reach the same level as Joey. To resolve an argument in a fistfight was a normal occurrence in their place. Especially that there were gangs and fraternity conflicts in their district.


    "Let''s just look for a few minutes and see who is so bold to fight here.. Maybe we can recognize some of them," Joey responded. He continued to pull Stephen towards the location until they saw a figure of a man that was certainly the center of everybody''s attention.


    "What? Do you want to die? Come!" a man shouted arrogantly. He was clearly one of the students in the university.


    He rolled the sleeves of his school uniform clenched his fist. In just a blink of an eye, he threw a fist towards the figure in front of them.


    "Fight! Fight! Fight!"


    The cheering of some audiences in the brawl became louder. People were excited when they saw the man started punching.


    Then, the onlookers started to form a circle and surrounded them. These two figures looked like they were ready to kill each other but, unexpectedly, the opponent of the man was actually a girl!


    The girl was wearing civilian clothes however she was wearing an ID sling that belonged to the university. It was clear that they were schoolmates. But, as for the reason for this fight, no one had bothered to discuss it.


    "Your posture is too bad," the girl stated with a small smirk on her face.


    Just as the fist of the man reached few inches away from the girl''s chin, her body slightly moved backward and she raised her leg to kick the man in his abdomen. Her counterattack made all people gasp an air.


    "Ouch!" Stephen winced while witnessing the kick landed towards the man at a perfect angle. Even he who was just watching the scene unfolded before he could relate to the pain that the man received.


    "What ouch? You are reacting to her target? Did you feel the pain?" Stephen playfully commented with a grin on his face. But there was also a glint of admiration in his eyes after seeing the girl''s ability.


    "Hehe, that kick was damn strong. Who is that girl? Do you know her?" Joey inquired. His face showed full of interest.


    "No. Why would I know her?" Stephen raised a brow and asked him. Joey only shrugged and did not speak any response anymore.


    At the center, the man curled his body for a few seconds and pressed his hands on his stomach to ease the pain that he felt. He could almost feel the need to vomit after her foot touched his stomach. The attack was no joke! And his arrogant face was replaced with a grim expression.


    "You! How dare you kick me!" He shouted in fury and raised his index finger to the girl. "I will kill you! I will kill you!"


    The man forced his feet to move forward and punches the girl again. But his attempt for the second time had failed. The girl easily docked her head and exchange a blow. Her punch connected right on the man''s jaw. The man staggered before his body completely dropped to the ground.


    "Show is over. Scram!" a feminine voice sounded. If they had not witnessed the fistfight, everyone would think that this girl is just harmless. Her eyelids fluttered as she looked at the crowd before turning away.


    She started walking inside the convenience store and ignored the people who were staring at her back.


    At this point, everyone who watched this scene had realized that this girl was not simple. They immediately memorized the features of her face to avoid her.


    "This... wow! Knock out?!" Joey spoke and was lost in words. The man was really sprawled unconscious on the ground. It was just a single punch but the girl knew where to hit her target.


    Those who were cheering for a fight earlier quickly tended to the man and carried him on their shoulder. It turned out that they were


    "The girl can do a real punch," Stephen commented.


    The onlookers started to disperse and talked about the incident. Some groups were asking which year the girl belongs. Others were curious about her section. But none of them had actually known the details for she was wearing an item of civilian clothing.


    "I think those students in night class are allowed to wear civilian clothes?" one of the onlookers pointed out.


    "Ohh¡­ that''s right! Those students," another one mumbled.


    If Sofia was there, she would have recognized the girl right away. It was one of her classmates, Kristelle!


    Meanwhile, Joey and Stephen finally crossed on the opposite side of the road and continued to walk. Somehow, the incident had made them forgot about the status of their gaming accounts. But when they reached on the other side, Joey''s thoughts started to linger again about the suspension of his account.


    "Unbelievable," he mumbled while shaking his head.


    "Are you stunned with the girl''s fighting skills?" Stephen asked while glancing at him.


    "No! Not the girl. I''m thinking about our accounts. How could it be suspended for so long! One day without playing feels like eternity!" Joey stated in a dramatic tone.


    Stephen shook his head and forced a bitter laugh. The two of them had already walked closer to the bus stop and Stephen''s place too.


    "It''s abnormal. But if the system works that way, then, what else can we do?" Stephen said calmly. But, as he looked straight ahead, his face suddenly turned grim.


    He saw a luxury van parked in front of his place. And it was not just a random vehicle. The van was very familiar to him.


    This change of expression did not miss Joey''s eyes. He shifted his line of sight to where Stephen was looking and understood the situation right away. Stephen''s father could be in his place!


    "It seems that you have a visitor too? Maybe, today is region 7 parental visitation day?" Joey joked after seeing the van. At first, it was Claire''s parents who were visiting her. Now, there was also the possibility of Stephen''s parents. He could not help but put an emphasis on such coincidence.


    Stephen only scoffed and gritted his teeth. Then he bitterly spoke, "Tsk! It''s probably Mr. and Mrs. Ching this time."


    His tone was lack of affection and if there was emotion that could be hinted from it, Joey could tell that it was full of disdain.


    They both halted their steps. Joey could feel that Stephen was reluctant to go back to his place.


    "Bro, just face them. I don''t know your family issues but they are still your parents. If Sofia is here, she would probably push you forward to meet them," Joey encouraged him.


    "Yeah," Stephen nodded his head in agreement.


    "I''ll catch my bus here. Damn, no one is sharing a sympathy of my suspended account!" Joey muttered to lighten up their mood.


    "If you find that girl earlier, maybe she will share a sympathy?" Stephen chuckled.


    "Hahaha¡­ never mind!" Joey objected. A bus stopped in front of them. The two exchanged a quick fist bump before he swiftly got in.


    Joey picked the window seat. He waved at Stephen. But before the bus could take its leave, another figure ran inside and sat next to Joey''s seat.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me!" Joey froze on his seat for a few seconds. Then, he carefully leaned his head on the window to hide from this seatmate. The last-minute passenger was actually the girl who knocked out a man earlier!


    Joey closed his eyes and pretended to fall asleep. Unfortunately, despite his efforts, he still heard the girl spoke. "You are from that champion squad last tournament?"


    Even if this girl won''t call his name, it was obvious that she was talking to him. Joey opened his eyes and took a courage to look at the girl.


    "Y-yes," he replied.


    "I''m Kristelle, Sofia''s classmate. How is she?" Kristelle casually introduced her name and asked him.


    "AH! You are a classmate of our squad leader!" Joey exclaimed in astonishment.


    "Yeah, I was with her during the literary contest. So, how is she?" Kristelle asked again.


    "Sofia? Why are you asking? Did something happen?" Joey inquired. His fear towards her suddenly vanished when the girl mentioned Sofia.


    "Nothing really. Can''t I ask about her?" the girl asked.


    "Well, as far as I know, our leader is fine. But, did she offended you or something? Are you targeting her?" Joey pressed further.


    In an instant, the rich sound of Kristelle''s laugher filed the bus. "Hahahaha, I don''t have that kind of guts!"

 Chapter 199 - Ma-IX Corner Bus Stop (1)

    After Kristelle''s laughter tone down, Joey found himself lost in his own thoughts. The two of them settled in awkward silence as they sat in uncomfortable atmosphere around them.


    "Location?" the elder man who was the conductor of the bus took a stop at their side to ask for their destination. He was holding a ticketing device on his hand and he looked at them in the eye. He waited for them to respond.


    "Ma-IX Corner," Kristelle answered.


    Hearing this location, Joey instantly trembled but he quickly pretended to be busy looking outside the bus. He secretly took an earphone from his bag and plug it on his ear.


    The conductor also took a step back and examined the girl''s face to see if she was serious.


    "Pardon?" he asked to confirm her location..


    The Ma-IX Corner was not a place that any civilian would make a stop. Even buses in their district would refuse to drop a passenger in this location despite having a bus stop.


    It was a street that was commonly called the ninth corner mansion. Even if there was a mansion on its name, but this place was considered to be the den of the notorious criminals in the district.


    "Uncle, I''m going to the Ma-IX Corner," Kristelle casually repeated. The passenger at her back was also terrified by her response that it moved to another seat farther away from her.


    "Young girl, we don''t take passengers to the ninth corner mansion," the elder conductor finally said.


    "Uncle, which route is this bus traveling? Aren''t you going to pass at the Ma-IX corner?" Kristelle inquired. She was oblivious of all the weird glances that the people threw at her.


    "Well, y-yes. We can pass on that location but we can''t make a stop there. It''s a company policy," the elder conductor stated.


    "Why not? There is a bus stop just in front of the ninth mansion," Kristelle argued.


    The elder conductor sighed and shook his head in frustration. "Young girl, we just don''t make a stop on this area. We can drop you at the next bus stop or before the mansion''s bus stop."


    "That''s odd. The bus stop in the Ma-IX corner is not illegal. But, you don''t want to drop me there," Kristelle mumbled in slight irritation.


    "Didn''t you know of the rumors?" Joey suddenly asked her while taking off the earphones from his ears.


    Kristelle turned her head at him and frowned. Then, she asked Joey with a solemn expression on her face. "Which rumors? That the Ma-IX is where criminals took their business in that place?"


    "Exactly! That is the reason why no buses would stop in the place," Joey replied quickly without looking at her.


    "The young man is right. The place is dangerous. We cannot risk the safety of our passengers," the elder conductor quickly confirmed Joey''s words.


    "Huh? Those rumors are not true. I live there," Kristelle said.


    "Well, even if the rumors are not confirmed by others, we cannot drop you at that location. I cannot give you a ticket," the elder conductor stated firmly. His tone made Kristelle ''s frown grow deeper.


    But soon, she nodded her head and finally drew out her decision, "Please, give me a ticket for the bus stop before the Ma-IX Corner."


    Right away, the elder conductor made manual punches on the ticket to indicate the distance of her location and the amount of her fare. "Here," the ticket was hander at her before the elder conductor turned his attention to Joey.


    "Err--- I''m also going to the Fairview Street," Joey said. Coincidentally, this was the name of the location of the bus stop that was before the ninth mansion bus stop.


    The conductor did not speak a word and gave him a ticket too. Then, he proceeded to approach the passengers behind them to ask for their destination.


    "We are taking the same bus stop," Kristelle initiated another conversation.


    "Yeah," Joey replied. He felt that it was better for him not to engage with much talk to this lady, but, he also did not want to be rude. In the end, he also took the initiative to ask the girl about the incident earlier. "I saw you at the convenience store, punching someone, what happened?"


    "Ohh... that, hehe, his members were bullying me," she replied right away. But this response triggered Joey''s curiosity. Even if bullying was rampant in their school, it did not involve physical fights among students. Most of it was verbal fights.


    "How did they bully you?" he probed further.


    "I went to buy a pack of sour candies in the convenience store when they started extorting for my money," Kristelle paused and open her backpack. Then, she took the sour candies out of it to show Joey. "I was looking for this in the aisle of candies when one of their members approached me. I ignored him but then, another member blocked my way to force me to give them money," she added.


    "I did not know that students extort money from other students," Joey subconsciously stated.


    "Haha, with your group, I don''t think someone would bully you guys," Kristelle commented.


    "Maybe... but, why are they extorting money though?" Joey asked again.


    "Hmmn, They said that night class students must pay them so that we are safe to study at night. And that their group will teach a lesson to those who won''t pay them. So, I punch him. Then, the cashier kicks us out. The rest, I think, you''ve witnessed it. HAHA, That man deserved it! He can''t even throw a proper punch but he had the guts to challenge me for a fight!" Kristelle answered with a small smile on her face. A glint of mockery was evident in her eyes too.


    Then, she started to check the outside street signs to see if they had passed through their bus stop. "Isn''t Fairview Street just around this place?"


    "No, there is still 10 minutes drive, more or less before the bus stop," Joey thoughtfully answered.


    "Ohh... I see. I did not know that buses do not make a stop at Ma-IX Corner. But, it had been so long since I used public transportation," she muttered and crossed her arms on her chest.


    "Ma-IX Corner... do you really live there?" Joey asked her out of confirmation. Somehow, he doubted that a student in their school was actually living with criminals on the Ma-IX Corner.


    "I live there. That rumors about the mansion were completely absurd. There were no criminals in that location," Kristelle defended.


    Out of a sudden, a high pitch voice sounded on the other row of the seat. "Well, well, well, look who''s here? Did you find a new girl toy, Joey?"


    Joey did not need to stretch his neck to take a clear look at the girl. He only glance at her and realized that the girl was one of his ex-girlfriends during his freshman years. He had completely forgotten her name though.


    "Were not together," Kristelle sternly said before Joey could open his mouth to speak a response.


    "Ohh? That''s new! If you are not together, then, why are you sitting beside him?" the ex-girlfriend asked Kristelle.


    "Because it''s a vacant seat? And I know him. So, is there a rule that I can''t take a seat next to him? Or maybe you are one of those girls who are stalking their crushes and gets jealous over non-sense things?" Kristelle replied. Her tone was full of sarcasm.


    "Don''t mind her. She is one of my ex-girlfriends," Joey whispered as he adjusted his sitting position. He secretly plea that the bus driver would drive faster so, he could get off the bus as soon as possible. Who knows if Kristelle would punch his ex-girlfriend too if she would provoke her.


    "Your ex-girlfriend? I see," Kristelle chuckled.


    "Well, let me tell you then. That man is a player. So, you better stay away from him!" the ex-girlfriend continued her banter without any regard for the other passengers.


    "Please, stop responding..." Joey coldly said.


    "Fairview Bus Stop," the elder conductor announced. Joey sighed in relief and quickly stood from his seat. He subconsciously grabbed Kristelle''s arm before he could take a step, "Let''s go."


    "Your ex seems concerned about me. Why are you pulling my arms?"  Kristelle asked but did not also bother to snatch her hand from Joey''s grip.


    Joey immediately realized his actions and let go of her hand. He sheepishly smiled at her while scratching the back of his head.


    "Ohh... sorry. Hehe, to be honest, I''m more concerned about her welfare. If she provokes you, I don''t know what kind of fight will happen," Joey stated while watching as the bus droves off the street.


    "Mmn, I''m not that dangerous," Kristelle defended after realizing that Joey was implying something terrible in his words.


    "Yes, hehe, then take care! I''ll take this way," Joey agreed to end their conversation and quickly sprinted to a more narrow road.


    "Wow, aren''t you going to join me until I got to my next stop?" Kristelle joked. But, this comment made Joey felt guilty. He looked around at her and then started to walk back closer to her.


    "Hehe, the ninth mansion is not that far. I''ll accompany you then," he stated forcing himself to ignore all the negative feelings about the location.


    "I''m just joking. Hahaha, no need to accompany me," Kristelle told him. But Joey shook his head.


    In his mind, if something bad will happen to this lady, he would never live a peaceful life. "It''s fine. It''s not that far anyway," he insisted.

 Chapter 200 - [Bonus ] Ma-IX Corner Bus Stop (2)

    "It''s really just a joke. I appreciate the offer of you accompanying me till the next bus stop but I''ve already texted someone to pick me here. She will be here soon," Kristelle stated after Joey started to walk ahead of her. She waved both of her hands and gesture to him that he was free to go.


    Despite having the street lights along the road, the side of the road was still dim. It was because the light bulb was covered by a big leaf from a tree. Their two figures stood in the coldness of the night. Both of them had their arms crossed on their chest.


    "If someone will pick you here, that will spare some of my energy. Then, I''ll wait for your company to pick you here," Joey said and sat on the sidewalk gutter as if it was made for him to sit there.


    Seeing this attitude, she could not help but stare at him for a long time. "You don''t need to wait here," she debated..


    "Of course, I don''t need to. But, since you know Sofia, if she finds out that I left you here alone, she might kick me out of our group," Joey reasoned thinking of the possibility. But at the back of his mind, it was unlikely to happen. It''s just that, he could not think of any alibi at that time.


    "Sofia? I don''t think she would do that just because of a nonsense reason. Could it be that you are looking down on her character for you to easily draw that kind of assumption?" Kristelle interrogated.


    "I have no reason to look down on Sofia. She is our squad leader. And I know that she is capable more than anyone else," Joey said in a serious tone.


    Kristelle followed his gesture of sitting on the sidewalk and sat few inches away from him, not minding the dust on the ground. She then looked at the man from head to foot.


    "Why are you staring at me like I''m sort of a creep?" Joey asked in a conflicted expression. "Don''t make some fake issues like I look down on Sofia. If others would hear you, who knows what would be the consequences of it for my future!"


    "Hmmn, I''m just thinking... what will happen if your fans see you sitting on the ground? Don''t you have an image that needs to maintain?" Kristelle replied.


    "What image? Even if I''m sitting here, my face is the same. Besides, I don''t think the other gamers who follow the Chronos squad really care about where we sit. This is a public place."


    "Ohh, yeah... what if someone would take a picture of you right now and post it on social media with negative captions?" Kristelle queried while giving him a challenging look. She actually assumed that the members of the Chronos squad were all from a wealthy families. But Joey''s action was not how rich kids normally act. She did not expect him to seat easily on the ground.


    "Heh! If there is someone who would do that, the caption would be about you. It''s definitely not about me sitting here," Joey smirked but he quickly adjusted his expression after he remembered that the girl was capable of punching him.


    "Whatever. I have no public image that I need to maintain," Kristelle shrugged. Then, she also remembered the incident of Joey''s ex-girlfriend on the bus. "It''s better if you just leave me here."


    Joey just shook his head and took his phone from his pocket. His fingers scrolled the unread messages for a few minutes before he looked up at the girl beside him.


    "You know... as far as I could remember, there was a reported massacre on the Ninth Mansion Corner. It was said that nine people were killed. They were burned alive and as a symbol of their death, the place is called the ninth mansion? Joey suddenly spoke. The incident was not emphasized by the press as the authorities kept it was confidential. So, only a few citizens of the district were aware of such a horrific event.


    "Yeah, that rumor is true. But, it does not mean that it''s the place of criminals," Kristelle replied. She was aware of the conflict that happened behind the massacre but she had vowed not to talk it to anyone.


    "Really? As far as I know, the people responsible for the massacre were never put in prison. The police were even too afraid to get involved with the suspects," Joey pressed farther as if he dedicated himself to digging some of the dark issues of their district in the past.


    "Well, that''s a different story. But, the ninth mansion corner is not the kind of place. It was only the public opinion,  had really inflicted fear to one another," Kristelle stated.


    "Are you saying that the Ninth Mansion Corner is not dangerous? Even the elder conductor of the last bus that we took knew that the place was dangerous, and you will object his view of your place in general?" Joey inquired. Few people came to pass at them and looked weirded by their actions.


    "Are you kids going to imitate some of the TV dramas? Do not stay on this side. You might get hit and run," one of the concerned civilians called them before she left.


    Kristelle only looked at the retreating figure of the woman''s back.


    "You do agree with me that dangerous people live in that place?" Joey started.


    "Huh? There is always danger everywhere. But for the people who were born in a silver spoon, they were oblivious to that dangers," Kristelle said while looking at the stars in the sky.


    "I''m not born in a silver spoon. I''m just asking about the place where you are going if it is dangerous," Joey defended. It was too obvious to him that Kristelle was inferring that he was born rich. However, his family was actually regular workers. His father was the coach of a basketball team. So, he came from the middle class.


    "All places are dangerous. Even here right where I sat or where you are sitting, anything could happen," Kristelle plainly said and looked away.


    "I got your point," Joey bitterly reply.


    After their brief conversation, another awkward silence loomed around them. Joey took a stick and started scribbling on the ground. Kristelle was constantly checking her phone to see if the person she asked to pick her was already near.


    A sedan with almost a fade paint stooped on the side of Kristelle. "What take you so long?" she asked after the driver rolled down the window of the car.


    "I was about to go out. You are lucky, I have not yet gone to work when you sent a message at me," the driver replied. Then, she detected that Kristelle had a companion. She immediately asked, "Who is he?"


    "That''s Joey. Remember the champion squad during the last tournament? He was the fighter and support user on that group," Kristelle introduced.


    Joey stood straight and looked at the driver of the car. It was a woman that seemed to be in her mid-twenties. When they made eye contact, the woman waved her hand as a gesture of hello to him. Joey reciprocated and smiled at her.


    "Joey, this is Hanna. She is my colleague," Kristelle stated before pulling the door handle for her to get inside the car.


    "Hello, Joey! I did watch the tournament last time. You guys are all great. But, I was paying more attention to the tank user at that time. Kristelle told me that she is her classmate," Hanna stated in a friendly tone.


    "Yes. She is also our squad leader," Joey responded.


    Kristelle had comfortably sat on the passenger seat and waved at Joey. "Thanks for accompanying me," she said.


    "Welcome! Bye guys! Drive safe," Joey casually responded.


    "Bye, Joey! " Hanna also chirped before they close the car window and drove off.


    "What are you doing in this area?" Hanna asked curiously.


    "It''s a weird reason. The bus driver did not want to stop at Ma-IX Corner because apparently, they believe that the place was a den of criminals!" Kristelle replied. She closed her eyes and finally felt that she could sleep at any minute.


    "Den of criminals? But, it''s just only us in the mansion.  They are weird for thinking that we are criminals!" Hanna returned.


    "Nevermind it," Kristelle shrugged and her eyelids had really closed tight.


    "Oh, no way! I will never allow you to sleep with this kind of occasion. I am not your driver here, You better stay awake!" Hannah scolded after seeing that Kristelle was really about to sleep.


    "Nah, just wake me up after that is done. I''m lucky there is no class today," Kristelle said, and then she completely doze off.


    Hanna poked her free arm at her shoulder.


    "You better not sleep, Kristelle. Or, you will pay me, for picking you and driving you around!" Hanna directed.


    "Since when did you become so sensitive of me sleeping while you are driving?" Kristelle pouted. She shook her head to maintain awake.


    "I''ll go to my work place first. Then, you can drive the car to go home," Hanna stated. She made a left turn and when she glance at her passenger, Kristelle was completely asleep. "So much for staying asleep."

 Chapter 201 - Sofias Marketing Skills

    Meanwhile, on the second floor of the District 7 municipal hall, several prominent figures were gathered for the rehearsal of Brent and Grace''s wedding.


    The entire hall was usually allocated for events and large conferences of their district. But, it can also be used when the government hosts cultural programs.


    This hall had no particular decorations. Only some paintings were hung on the wall but even those were just common. Any civilian could buy those painting if they want to. And the interior had a design that was too conventional.


    However, at that time, this place seemed to have a different aura. The air of luxury lingered around the atmosphere while families and friends of both the Lee and Cleenne Clan were there.


    The chairs of the room were arranged on the corner to give most of the space for the rehearsal. The lady in charge of this practice politely gave instructions to everyone in the room..


    Despite being in the same room, Sofia could tell that the Lee Clan was maintaining their distance from the Cleenne Family. Brent and Grace had managed to introduce her to them earlier.


    Rich families were naturally reserved. They can socialize but they also do not show their emotions for the public to see. But, based on Sofia''s observation, she could tell that Mr. Lau Reano Lee and his wife, Mrs. Lau Rieta Lee treated the Cleenne family with blunt indifference.


    From their attitude, anyone could see that they were unwilling to participate in this union.


    Even Brent had a little interaction with Grace.


    But, the Cleenne Family did not seem to take the hint of their attitude. They act friendly and looked very satisfied while rehearsing. This made the old master of the Lee Clan more annoyed.


    Perhaps, this is the gap between a public figure and a private person. Even if they are family with powers. Their way of living was completely different. And Sofia wondered how would this soon-to-be husband and wife balance this differences...


    "A penny for your thoughts?" Grace spoke on the side when she noticed that Sofia was caught in a trance.


    The young lady stared blankly at space while they were given a five minutes break of their practice.  While others took the opportunity to mingle, Sofia was left alone sitting on one of the empty chairs on the corner of the hall. Grace was initially talking with her other bridesmaids when she noticed that Sofia was left out. So, she decided to accompany her.


    Unbeknownst to her, Sofia''s thoughts were actually about the heaviness that she felt towards the two families.


    Sofia shook her head and smiled at Grace. She then sat straight and slowly crossed her ankles.


    "I am just trying to imagine your wedding day, Grace. By the way, where is the venue of your wedding and the reception? Is it a surprise place?"


    To think that they were already rehearsing the wedding but she did not even know the final venue and reception of this event, Sofia felt a little bit awkward.


    But when Grace heard her question, a slight blush also appeared on her face. She was slightly embarrassed by the situation.


    "Err, young master Brent had not yet picked for the final location," Grace responded. She was also at a loss of this conversation since it was not up to her to pick the venue. She did suggest few places but Brent did not confirm any of them.


    As for Sofia, it did not escape to her ears how Grace had addressed her friend. How could this girl called her future husband with so much formality but lack of familiarity!


    Sofia cleared her throat and glance at Brent. He was a few feet away but she could see that he was talking with his father and mother and also with the mayor.


    "Brent will decide for your venue? Huh, the wedding is already on Saturday... But the venue is not yet confirmed?" Sofia mumbled and a small frown appear on her face.


    "The Lee Family wants to make it as exclusive as possible. So, the location is really hard to choose. But, I''m sure Brent will choose a good venue," Grace stated and took a seat next to Sofia. "Ehh.. how about you, Sofia? When you get married in the future, what kind of wedding do you want to have?" Grace added before Sofia could speak a response to their initial topic.


    "Well..." Sofia trailed and put a few things into consideration. "My grandparents are my only family. They are old and cannot travel. So, if it''s my wedding, it will be in the mountains so that they can join the ceremony. Have you heard of a camping-themed wedding?" she finished and was inwardly amused by what her mind had just come up.


    "Ohh... that sounds exciting!" Grace blurted with a small grin on her face.


    "Hahahaha, it is!" Sofia could not contain her laughter. Grace also joined her and all people inside the hall had secretly looked in their direction. Sofia did not also expect that she would be able to think of such an idea. If it was her in the past, it would be truly impossible to even go on camping.


    Brent pursed his lips and excused at the elders in front of him. He then walked towards the two ladies who seemed to have enjoyed their conversation.


    "What are you two laughing together?" he asked when he reached the side of Grace.


    "Oh, we--" Grace paused. Her face quickly changed and looked formal. "--we were talking about a wedding venue. Sofia was sharing with me what her wedding would be," she finished.


    "You will get married too?" Brent looked at Sofia with an unreadable expression.


    Sofia stared at him for a few seconds before she rolled her eyes. "I will, of course! What are you even thinking? Hehe, how about you choose my business as the reception of your wedding?" Sofia stated with a huge grin in her face.


    "Your business?" Brent inquired with a spark of interest in his eyes.


    In a distance, the elders who were talking to him had also decided to join their group and were slowly approaching to their direction.


    "Yes! My squad will be competing you in the ranking of rich companies in the future. But we are still learning. Anyway, it is located on the intersection street. That establishment that is being remodeled," Sofia quickly replied.


    "Why would I want to choose that place as the reception of my wedding? That''s basically asking for a free audience of the public!" Brent scowled.


    The elders were able to overhear the subject of their conversation and Brent''s father also nodded in agreement.


    Sofia on the other hand clasped her fingers together. She also noticed the elders getting closer at them. So, she stood from her seat and put her hand on the waist.


    "That is exactly perfect. You see, if you choose my business as the reception, there are several great things that would benefit from your decision. First, of course, your good friend, yours truly. Your support to a small business lady like me will not be forgotten," Sofia replied.


    "What else? Even if I don''t choose your business as the reception of my wedding, I will still support you, Sof," Brent responded. He crossed his arms on his chest and stood straight. His figure looked like a mountain that was too difficult to move.


    "Well, thank you for your loyalty as my friend! BUT---!" Sofia smiled. Then, her line of vision moved to the mayor and Brent''s family.


    "--the second reason is more crucial than my business. You see, the election is only three months away. This is a good opportunity for your future in-laws to gain publicity. Now before you react badly to my suggestion, you also have to consider that in our customs and traditions, your family will be united after your wedding. So, helping one another would be a normal thing to do. Why not start it on your wedding day, right?" Sofia finished.


    Grace and her family were secretly moved by Sofia''s words. At first, this was exactly what they want to happen. To use the wedding to announce that their family was tied to the wealthiest Lee Clan.


    However, when the old master of the Lee Clan firmly told them that the wedding must be private, they had not pursued the matter. After all, it was their daughter who was marrying the richest family in their district. They can only thank the heavens for this favorable union and desired nothing else anymore.


    Speaking of the old master of the Lee Clan, Mr. Lau Reano Lee''s face instantly looked dark after Sofia finished her speech. Everyone near him could tell that it had provoked his anger.


    He opened his mouth to scold Sofia. But, Brent''s pit of laughter interrupted him. Seeing his son, laughing so genuinely, he quickly swallowed whatever anger and words that he wanted to speak.


    "Hahahahaha, what the heck! Sof, I know that you are good at playing virtual games. But, I have never realized that you are also a master in the field of marketing!" Brent started.


    Even though Sofia''s suggestion was completely opposite to what his family wanted to happen, Brent was amazed at how much Sofia made her ideas so convincing to him.


    He was not too focused on the suggestion but on how Sofia had presented her business and market it effortlessly to the point that if an outsider would listen to them, they would just probably not see through Sofia''s hidden agenda.

 Chapter 202 - [Bonus ] Sofias Views In Marriage

    Sofia cleared her throat and looked at Brent with high regard. Surely, the man was worthy to be the head of the wealthiest family in the district. He had a sharp instinct more than she had expected.


    "Well, what do you say, young master Brent? Go decide now so I can make arrangements. I''m so excited to make money as well as be the bridesmaid. Haha," she playfully stated while repeatedly raising her eyebrows to hint for Brent to agree with her suggestion.


    Brent eyed her for a long time. He just shook his head with a genuine smile on his face. Sofia then knew this kind of expression. He was bound to agree with her. He was just prolonging the tension around the place.


    "Ms.. Sofia, is it? Young lady, the Lee family had always stayed lowkey and private. Do not cross the line and feed my son some  absurd ideas!" Brent''s father finally managed to speak coldly while glaring at Sofia. It was the kind of look that would surely intimidate anyone. He did not pay attention to the young lady when they were introduced earlier. He did not even took a second glance of her, at least not until he heard her suggestions.


    Even Grace and her family was bothered by the old man''s tone. They worriedly glanced at Sofia but the young lady just stood there with her clear eyes and calm expression.


    Sofia was not just anyone. And even though this old master of the Lee clan had an intimidating aura, it did not affect her. In her eyes, it was not enough to be considered a threat. She just curled her lips in a smile and slightly bowed her head to respect the old man.


    "Old master Lee, if I may ask, what is so absurd of having a wedding in my business? The place will be perfect in accordance with the theme of the wedding," Sofia stated while looking at the old man in the eye.


    "Hah!" Brent''s father exhaled in disbelief. His black eyes constricted as he formed his lips in a line.


    The issue was not about Sofia''s business but the family of Grace taking advantage of his son.


    They never liked the idea of publicly announcing the marriage.


    But now, Sofia seemed to imply that there was a problem with her business if they reject her suggestion.


    She was clearly diverting the issue to her! Even those who were not business experts understood her words.


    ''Just who is this girl!'' the old master of the Lee clan secretly scoffed while his glare towards her had intensified.


    His wife also stood next to him and gently patted his shoulder. ''This girl has guts!'' she also glared at Sofia.


    "Marriage is a fortuitous union of your families. I dare to say that Brent is lucky to have the most elegant lady in this district. The line of men that wants to pursue her is beyond my imagination. But she fell in love with Brent and that should be celebrated," Sofia said before these two elder couples could speak further.


    "Ridiculous! Don''t speak nonsense!" Brent''s mother spoke up while clenching her hand into a fist.


    "What I said is just a suggestion. My words are not the decision. There is no need to be so stressed about it. From what I understand, it''s still up to Brent to have a final say," Sofia softly spoke and glance back at Brent.


    Brent placed his hand on his pocket and appeared to be in a deep thought. Then, he gestured for Sofia to go with him on the other side for a discussion. He then excused themselves to the elders, "Give us a minute."


    Grace looked down on the floor and did not know what to feel. She somehow felt happy and also sad. Happy because Brent was clearly reconsidering some things. Sad because she was not the reason why he would be willing to compromise.


    While she felt dejected, she felt a hand touch her arm. When she looked up, it was Sofia who was pulling her to walk. In a state of confusion and mixed emotion, she followed Sofia while Brent was looking ahead of them.


    "Did you see that? Your son is being brainwashed!" the old master of the Lee family whispered to his wife while looking at the two ladies and Brent''s figure walking a few distances away from them.


    "Let''s not interfere with the matters of the youths," his wife replied and lead him to sit on one of the nearest empty chairs on their side.


    Brent faced Sofia and was slightly surprised that Grace had tagged along with them. He momentarily closed his eyes and took a deep breath.


    "I don''t want to go against my parents, Sof. We are friends but in my parent''s opinion are important to me," Brent spoke with a conflicted tone.


    Grace subconsciously shifted her other foot and took a big gulp. She maintained her head up at the level of Sofia but she knew that any minute, the confidence within her might crumble into pieces.


    Of course! She was aware of Brent''s parent''s request. They had discussed it with her parents too. She knew that her parents were already satisfied with her marrying the Lee family since she rejected the Ching family. They did not mind if the wedding will be private for it was reasonable to the Lee family.


    "Brent, in fact, this is not about going against your parents. This is about the two of you getting married soon," Sofia calmly said. In their entire rehearsal, all she could see with these two were a formality and no affection. Somehow, she was worried about their situation.


    "My marriage with Grace, we have agreed to it," Brent stated while glancing at Grace.


    "Yes, we have agreed it, Sofia," Grace supported even though there was a prior arrangement that she made between this young lady, she had to maintain their plan as secret.


    "I''m happy that you have reached this agreement. But, I think it''s still too early for you to get married. Though I am not an expert, so I could be wrong about the timing. But, when it comes to marriage, Brent, you are about to build your family outside of your parents. The welfare of your wife should also be part of your concern," Sofia reasoned. She was not even aware that with no experience of love in the past life, her understanding of the ceremony was quite impressive. Or, perhaps, it was because of this wisdom she had that she never settled down so early.


    "What are you? A love guru?" Brent raised his hand and waved it in front of Sofia''s face. He could not believe that this young friend of his would actually give a piece of serious advice about marriage too!


    "Hehe, no... not love guru. I am just trying to convince you to book my business. I just got the permit to operate and we are still redesigning the place. It would be good if the first customer that we will have is an auspicious ceremony," Sofia grinned.


    "I am not sure, Sof. My parents would be upset if this wedding will be done in public. They want to make this ceremony private," Brent hesitated. "Grace, your family understands why right?"


    Grace nodded her head but did not say a word. She just stood there and hoped that she could maintain her composure until their discussion would be over.


    "Then, I won''t force you," Sofia told Brent. However, her voice was telling him the opposite message. She then added, "Once you form your family, it is important that you can make your own decision outside the opinion of your parents. Sure, they can give you bits of advice for they know what''s best for you. But, marriage is no longer about what''s best for you. It''s what''s best for you---" her hand gestured towards Grace before she proceed to point Brent,"--and you. The best of you two."


    "You are making this hard for me, Sof," Brent blurted in frustration.


    "Marriage is hard. Hehe. But, if you put in your heart the best interest of your future family, it will be easy. Come on Brent, you have learned gaming from me. Should I still spill these kinds of stuff to you for you to realize that you have to consider Grace''s well-being too?" Sofia had really become a love guru. Whether she was still marketing her business or giving a piece of advice to this couple, she was not also sure anymore.


    All she was certain of was that she considered these two as her friends now. So, she could not help but give them such kind of advice.


    "Wait a minute, I am your friend here. Why do I feel that you are on her side?" Brent mumbled while giving Sofia a suspicious look.


    "Oh no, no, no," Sofia repeated. Then, the curl in her lips turned into a wide grin. "I am on the side of my business so I can start earning profits. But you two are my friends. Hehe, so, you know my number. If you happen to make your final decision and choose my business as your venue, I''m one call away!"


    "Unbelievable! You are really something, Sof. You know that?" Brent chuckled helplessly. He slowly looped his arms on Grace''s waist and they started to walked back to their tracks.


    "I know right. After all, I''m lightly expert of my craft," Sofia casually responded and looked satisfied with Brent''s action. Then, the three of them rejoined the elders.

 Chapter 203 - [Bonus ] Straightforward Discussion

    Grace felt very jittery the very first second that Brent held her waist. This was the first close and intimate contact that they had since their agreement to get married. She secretly wished that she could read what was in his mind at that moment so she would know how to feel.


    "Brent, son--" Brent''s father called him after looking at his son''s gesture holding intimately at the lady. As a father, he could assume that his son was just forcing himself and he wanted to tell him that there was no need for him to act against his will.


    Brent gave a him a charming smile before the man looked at the side of the mayor and his wife. Grace parents maintained their silence and waited for Brent''s instructions.


    "Mr. & Mrs. Cleenne, I have overlooked a crucial thing during our past discussion about my wedding. If it''s not for my friend that reminded me about it, I would probably neglect my duty as your son-in-law," Brent spoke. His hand did not leave on Grace''s waist as if he was ready to display his affection in front of these elders..


    "Ahaha, son, we are soon to be family, if you have some requests, just tell me directly and we will try our best to meet the standards of your family," Grace''s father replied. He thought that Brent may have other requirements in the marriage and felt completely wary.


    At the same time, he took a side glance at her daughter and could not help but smile genuinely after seeing that Brent was holding her. Whatever would be the requirements of the Lee family, he was determined to fulfill them.


    "Is it about the location of your wedding''s reception? Son, it has to be private. Don''t tell me that you''ll allow this girl to brainwash you and you change your mind?!" Brent''s mother interrupted.


    At first, she was confident that her son would never disobey their request. And he knew better than anyone else. In her mind, if the reception would be changed into public, it was equivalent to letting their family be taken advantage of in broad daylight.


    But after hearing Brent''s tone, she somehow made a wild guess that his son was really influenced by Sofia''s words before.


    "We always conduct our business within our family. This wedding should only be joined by our close family and friends too," Brent''s father also spoke to remind his son of how


    Everyone in their circle seemed to feel another level of tension around them. Only Sofia who silently listened to them had maintained her calm and composed bearing. Even though Brent''s parents were glaring at her, she only comb her hair and pretended not to pay much attention to their conversation. After all, it was a civil matter and she was not part of their family.


    Aside from being the friend of the groom and bride, what Sofia had imagined as her position right now was totally different than the elders could imagine. In her perspective, she was the person who was trying to capitalize their ceremony.


    Opportunity favors those who have guts. And the others may look at her as shameless but she would run a business soon. In her mind, every opportunity to gain profit must not be overlooked.


    "There are some changes that I''d like to make to the arrangements that we made before. The reception of the wedding will be in the intersection street," Brent calmly announced.


    "Bah! I can''t believe my son was being brainwashed in front of us!" Brent''s father snickered and gritted his teeth in anger. Brent''s statement was the very first time that he had disobeyed his parent''s request. And they could not believe that he would actually not follow their request.


    "Father, I have some realization. Even if our family had maintained low-key, this is an auspicious ceremony. Why not celebrate and let the public know about this matter openly to spread happiness?" Brent spoke softly.


    Hearing this, the mayor subconsciously grabbed his wife''s hand so he can maintain a calm composure. But deep down in his heart, he was completely overjoyed.


    Brent''s parents became silent. If the bride of their son is not the family of the Greenne, they would surely not mind sharing the news with the public. They would even let the entire citizens in district 7 join their ceremony.


    "Allow me to speak a few words, old master Lee?" Sofia suddenly said politely.


    "You have spoken earlier and had influenced my son''s mind already! You are so thick-face to ask permission now. Isn''t that a bit too late? And if my husband does not give you consent to speak here, will your mouth stay close?" Brent''s mother stated before her husband could speak a word.


    "Ah, Mrs. Lee has good eyes and perception. I am also a young girl and will married soon. So, I just want to clear something because I am a little bit confused. This is your son''s wedding, but why not make the celebration big? If I get married, I will let the whole world know about it," Sofia slightly laughed to ease the tension around them. Then, she continued, "Could it be that you are afraid that the family of the bride would use you?"


    Sofia''s words hit the right spot. No one had opened up this matter but every one of them completely understood that such was really the case.


    The issue was very obvious. But instead of discussing and resolving it, Grace''s family just agreed to compromise.


    Unfortunately, Sofia is a straightforward person and always wanted a clear understanding of things through direct and open communication. Brent was also taken aback by Sofia''s direct words.


    "It is better to discuss this matter to avoid miscommunication and misunderstanding between in-laws. Even if you are unwilling to talk about your feelings, it is necessary," Sofia continued when all of them looked dumbstruck by her first query.


    "Young girl, what exactly do you want?" Brent''s mother questioned with her eyebrows arched in an upward curve.


    "Mrs. Lee, Brent is my friend and Grace is also my friend. If one day they would split because of a misunderstanding, I would have to choose between the two of them. I hope that won''t happen," Sofia replied and maintained eye contact with her.


    "HAHAHA! Since you have mentioned personal feelings then, let''s I''ll lay it here once and for all! I do believe that the power of my family in society will be exploited through this marriage. So, I wish this to be as private as possible," the old master of the Lee family said with a glint of his eyes that indicated how he despised having such conversation.


    "You cannot blame us. The election in our place is getting closer. We don''t want our son''s wedding to be a tool of an electoral campaign," Brent''s mother said and eyed Grace''s wife.


    "Ahh, the Lee family is indeed the richest in this district. But no matter how much wealth you hold, the Greenne family has much authority in our place. The mayor can make trouble if he wants to," Sofia uttered but quickly paused when she saw the mayor raised his hand to stop her.


    "Ehh, young miss doesn''t slander me," the mayor immediately interrupted and felt wronged by her. The lady seemed to be on their side earlier. But now, she was actually speaking some opinions that can pull down their reputation too!


    "No, I don''t intend to slander you, Mayor Cleenne. I am just giving the possibility to the Lee family of your capability. Apologies but from what I have observed, Mr. and Mrs. Lee wants to impose something out of fear that you are taking advantage of their wealth and power. But, from what I can remember, the competition in politics in our district is almost non-existent. In the public''s eye, the mayor''s performance rating is so high. So, even if the Greene family will not insist on having a big ceremony, they can still win the election." Sofia took a brief pause and arranged her thoughts.


    "From every different angle that I examined, there is no negative impact on the Greenne family if the wedding ceremony is not big. They already have the support of the citizens. But, on your Lee family, the possibility of the public throwing an allegation that you don''t respect our customs and become unwilling to spend money during the union of your son, that would not be good for your business," Sofia finished.


    "That''s what I also realized, father. How we handle this wedding will be a reflection of our family. If the reception of the wedding will be on Sofia''s business, we can get closer to our patrons directly and let them join the ceremony. We can just hold the reception program in a few hours and have the place cater to the guests for the rest of the day," Brent spoke.


    "It seems that you have really come up with your decision. Then, there is nothing that we can do anymore," the old master of the Lee family shook his head three times as he did not refute the idea anymore.


    "We will take our leave now to rest early," Brent''s mother spoke. She was visibly upset but also felt helpless since her husband won''t argue anymore.


    The two elders walked away with stiff shoulders and blank expressions on their faces.

 Chapter 221 - Company Uniform (1)

    Sofia glanced at her phone and took notice of the time. "It''s almost nine. Perhaps, the tailoring shop is already open? Let''s meet the tailor."


    "Yes, they are open now," Danny said in a respectful tone. The three of them stood together and the two men let Sofia walk ahead of them.


    "I hope they can rush the uniforms. I have not considered it earlier. But I realized that this is part of the company''s identity," Sofia spoke openly.


    "This tailor is quite capable, Miss Sofia," Danny assured her.


    As they stepped outside the establishment, Sofia made sure to lock the doors before they left.


    They walked along the side of the road while observing the place. Most of the establishments in the area had a poster in front of their offices that stated that they were out of operation.


    "Aside from your group, are there other gangs that make trouble in this location?" Sofia asked.


    "No other group. This is the double sigma territory," Derek replied. He noticed that Sofia was staring at one office and wondered what she was thinking.


    Soon after, Sofia made a follow-up query, "This office is not closed the last time I came here. But now, their notice says they are out of operation."


    "Ohh... that building... Miss Sofia, the closure of this establishment has nothing to do with us. We are no longer causing trouble since you offered us the job. I heard that the owner died of illness and no one from her family wants to continue her business," Derek replied.


    Sofia nodded her head and the three continued to walk towards the next block. The place has more people staying on the corner. And when they saw Derek and Danny, most of them immediately ran away.


    Sofia raised her eyebrows and stared at the retreating figures of the civilians.


    Upon sensing Sofia''s thoughts, Danny obliged to tell her of the situation. "In the past, we extort these people for money. Now, when they see us, they just want to run and escape."


    "Oh," Sofia blinked a couple of times.


    "Will this affect your business?" Danny asked. Of course, the answer would be yes! The worker''s attitude would reflect the image of the company.


    Sofia did not respond right away. She only looked straight ahead of them. She pursed her lips and thought of the situation.


    Her silence made the two feel extremely tense. They were aware of the answer. Hence, the anxiety that they felt was very strong.


    They have faced dangers and life and death situations together. But none of it made them feel so worried. Will Sofia change her mind? What if she will cancel their employment after learning their extortion.


    Somehow, Danny regretted telling her about what he had done in the past. There was also part of him that blamed those people for staying on the streets. If they did not stay there, they would not be able to extort money from them.


    But, in his mind, he was also compelled to show honesty to her. Since she will be their boss, there is no point on telling their lied. Anyway, their meeting was already a bad image for their group.


    Derek secretly tugged the shirt of his brother. He also felt the same anxiety as Danny.


    Danny gave him a side glance. ''This time, it''s better to keep real.''


    Sofia''s expression turned serious. She opened her mouth but hesitated for a few more seconds of what to say.


    "J-just don''t extort money anymore. What you have done in the past must have been your means to survive. I am not the law so, I can''t judge you on your past actions. But---" she paused. A gust of wind swept her hair and she raised her hand to tuck it back to her ears.


    On the other side, the two men waited for her to continue. The last word that she spoke sounde more scary than the death threats that they have dealt in the past.


    Derek gulped and sheepishly smiled at Sofia. Danny also forced a small smile. They were secretly praying that this young lady would not change their mind. The members of their group were already looking forward to this job and a stable future ahead of them. If they lost their job offer, they will have no choice but to return to what they were doing in the past.


    "But, once you work in the Chronos, your actions will impact our reputation. As the owner of the company, I won''t show mercy to those who will ruin it. I will protect you as my employee. But, I won''t forgive those who would bear malice and sabotage the company," Sofia finished.


    The two almost felt the stinging of their eyes after hearing Sofia''s response. At that point, not only that they decided to follow her lead, they also secretly vowed a lifetime of loyalty to her.


    "We will remember your words, Ms. Sofia. Thank you for being so magnanimous!" Danny and Derek bowed their heads to her.


    "We can no longer change the past actions that you have done," Sofia mumbled. Then she secretly thought, ''Unless you are like me who had a chance to transmigrate!'' Along with this thought, her lips curled in a smile and she looked at the two with a smile.


    "So, you have to look forward and do great things. In the future, maybe you can compensate those people that you have taken advantage of. Work hard and be a better person." Sofia added.


    Derek and Danny nodded their heads too many times in a row. They suddenly felt the mix of emotions bubbled on their chest. "Miss Sofia, we will do our best! We will work hard! We will not slack off!"


    "That''s good to hear. Remember, if you can''t control your emotions, it''s better to stay silent. People around here might provoke you while working.  They might seek revenge. I will handle them personally. Stay calm and composed, I won''t tolerate a bad attitude," Sofia muttered to warn them of the possibility of someone seeking trouble for them.


    "We understood. We will instruct our members to stay calm all the time," Derek stated.


    The three finally reached the third block and a small tailoring shop was indeed open. There was no sign of the business name but there were displays of different articles on the glass window.


    "This is the place, Miss Sofia," Danny stated and pointed his index fingers to the shop.


    "Okay, I''ll go inside," Sofia pushed the door open and was greeted by the old man.


    "Welcome!" the old man spoke softly.


    Sofia offered a customary bow and greeted the old man, "Good morning, grandpa."


    "Little girl, why are you here?" the old man asked.


    Sofia did not mind how the old man addressed her. She could roughly guessed that this tailor is about 70 years old. If her guess was right, her age was indeed a little girl for him!


    "Grandpa, do you have available time to make 35 uniforms for a company?" Sofia asked the old man directly.


    "When do you need the uniforms? Hehe, you are lucky! We have lots of tailors on duty," the old man responded with a bright smile on his face. Even though, he had a lacking front teeth, he did not mind showing a big grin to her.


    "I need it before Saturday. The design is not that big. I need a plain white polo shirt with our company logo on the left chest," Sofia replied.


    "Saturday? Do you have the polo shirts or would you like me to provide you all the materials too?" the old man asked excitedly.


    The number of uniforms were not really that many but, it was already enough for him to feel lucky that morning.


    "Grandpa, can you give me a discount if I buy your polo shirts for the uniform?" Sofia bargained. She did not intend to ask for a discount in consideration that the old man was actually making a living despite his age. However, their money will also run out soon if she does not negotiate the prize. They had spent almost all of their cash in hand. She needed to save some digits if there''s opportunity.


    "Yes, I''ll give you five percent discount for thirty five pieces of polo shirts," the grandpa quickly agreed.


    "Then, I thank you for this generosity, grandpa. I will surely remember this discount!" Sofia replied.


    "Hehe, let me count your bill!" the grandpa responded. He then turned around and called one of his employees, "Nate!"


    Sofia watched as the other man walked next to the old man. Then, the old man instantly instructed the man.


    "Nate, come! This is our client. She will order 35 white polo shirts and requests us to embroider the logo of their company. Take the logo design from her. Quick!"


    The man shifted his eyes and faced Sofia. "May I have your logo design ma''am?"


    Sofia took her phone and showed a design of a golden brooch with an hourglass at the middle. There was also a crescent shaped beside the hourglass. It could be seen as a moon or just a letter ''C'' that signifies the word Chronos.


    The man stared at the screen for a while. Then, he looked at Sofia''s face for a long time.


    "This logo is great. Now that you show me this golden brooch design, I remember where I''ve seen you.. Aren''t you the squad leader of the champion team during the e-sports district tournament? The Chronos squad, right?" the man suddenly beamed with a wide grin on his face.

 Chapter 222 - Company Uniform (2)

    Sofia stared at the man named Nate. The man had a stricking blonde hair. But, this was not the reason why she was looking at him. In her mind, she was slightly surprised by his remarks.


    How did the man associate the logo to the Chronos squad quickly? The golden brooch with an hourglass and crescent moon design at the center was never been in public.


    No one in her team also spoke any details about it after their game.


    Although, they managed to mention it few days ago, they never had a thorough discussion over it.


    It was just a mere idea that Sofia had when the Chronos squad joined the district tournament. But now, the man easily made a connection with it towards Sofia and recognized her.


    "I watched the tournament last time. It was a spectacular game. Congratulations! Your assassin user is so fierce and aggressive. I like her gameplay!" Nate stated when Sofia did not respond to his inquiry. His face looked animated and there was excitement that glinted on his eyes.


    "You have a good eye and high perception. To think that you can connect this logo to my squad is so cool! By the way, I am that Sofia, the Chronos squad leader. But this logo is for our company," Sofia finally spoke. She could not help but compliment the man for his good observant skills.


    "Little girl, do you have your required sizes of the polo shirts? How many small, medium, and large?" the old man suddenly called from the back side of the establishment. Sofia guessed that it was probably the storage room of the shop.


    "Grandpa, I have to check the exact numbers with my companions. Please wait for a while. I won''t take long," Sofia called back. Then, she slightly smiled at Nate before turning her back and exited the place.


    Danny and Derek were casually standing outside. They were smoking cigarettes and were looking at the road ahead of them.


    Out of a sudden, the figure of Sofia entered their peripheral vision. They instantly put off the cigarettes in their hands and took a few steps on it. After ensuring that the fire was extinguished, they approached her after she stepped out of the tailor shop.


    "Did the owner agree to make the uniform, Miss Sofia?" Derek asked.


    "Yes, but I need the actual sizes for your members. Do you know their sizes?" Sofia casually asked. But, she also realized how inappropriate her inquiry was to them. In most organizations, this question was impossible to answer. The double sigma fraternity has more than a dozen of members. There was no way that the fraternity leaders would be able to remember these details.


    "Miss Sofia, Large 10 pcs and XL 10 pcs," Danny instantly answered.


    Sofia''s eyes brightened with amusement. "You can remember the sizes of your members?" she asked in full of surprise.


    "No, I am not that good. My member''s sizes are pretty much simple to estimate since we see them every day. And we work out with them to monitor their stamina and fighting ability," Danny explained.


    "Ahh... I see, thanks! I''ll go ahead and order the sizes," Sofia responded. She then excused herself and return inside the shop.


    The old man had already returned at the front desk when Sofia entered at the tailor shop once more. Nate was standing beside him and they seemed to be caught in a serious conversation.


    "Grandpa, I will take 2 small sizes. Then," Sofia paused and tried to imagine the size of Stephen, Joey, and Clark. The first two small sizes were for her and Claire. But, she seemed to contemplate if the size of the male members of her squad is medium or large. In the end, she sent a message in the group chat to conveniently ask them.


    "Little girl, I will take note the sizes first, Wait for me to take a pen," the old man said and left them right away.


    "Ehh... Nate, you have seen the members of the Chronos squad right. Can you guess the sizes of Stephen, Clark, and Joey?" she thoughtfully asked. It occurred to her that Nate was good at observing details, He could even connect the logo to her. Hence, she was positive that the boy may have something to suggest.


    Nate tilted his head and thought of the three guys. Then, his mind made several calculations about fashion. "I think that they will be in the size of large rather than meduim. Even if the three men are not so big, it would look cooler to wear a slightly oversize shirt."


    "Hmmn, then, I''ll take the large for them. It is because this polo shirt is for the job and it will be presentable if they wear the perfect sizes for them," Sofia responded.


    After a minute, the old man emerged from the storage room. "I have a pen now. Little girl, give me the sizes so I can ask my employee to check in the warehouse."


    "Grandpa, I will take 2 pcs small, 13 pcs medium, and 10 pcs XL. Then, the remaining 10 pcs... make it assorted," Sofia replied.


    "Good, good, and also, little girl, can this grandpa ask something personal?  the old man stated.


    "What is it grandpa?" Sofia inquired.


    "Hehe, Nate here, told me that you are the team captain of Chronos squad?" the old man asked.


    "Grandpa, how come you know about my squad?" Sofia asked. She was curious how a senior citizen becomes knowledgeable of people playing in esports now? Their gap of the age and technology is quiet big.


    On the other side, the old man smiled warmly. His eyes was so gentle as he peered at Sofia. "It''s about my precious great grandchild. I have a great-grandson who really follows your match. Is it okay to take a picture of you and him?"


    "A picture with me? No problem. Where is your great-grandson?" Sofia asked.


    "Felix, come here! Nate, can you assist my great-grandson please?" the tailor stated. "My great-grandson is very warm-hearted and is a big fan of yours. But, I am too old to recognize any famous people. So, I only rely on Nate''s concern."


    A young boy suddenly appeared few meters away from Sofia. The eyes of this young boy looked as if they were on the same age level of Sofia.. But because he looked pale and was sitting on a wheelchair, he seemed to have aged older.

 Chapter 223 - Handshaking

    Despite the weakly appearance of Felix, his eyes somehow cheered slightly as they met Sofia''s gaze. He swiftly raised his right hand and waved it simultaneously while looking at her and his grandfather. "Grandpa!"


    His grandfather quickly attended to him. "Little girl, our dearest Felix was born prematurely. He is still young and is homeschooled. But, he is doing better and better with his medications and therapy. It''s just that he can use his legs yet."


    Upon hearing the old man''s brief explanations about the young boy''s situation, Sofia''s eyes landed on Felix''s knees. Even if he looked weak, his aura seemed to have held a promising future. Especially how his eyes brightened as he stared at Sofia.


    "Hello, Felix! It''s nice to meet you!" she took the initiative to greet the boy with a friendly smile on her lips. She took a few steps forward slowly and slightly bowed her head.


    "H-hello, sister..." Felix trailed with a hint of shyness in his tone. Though his appearance looked frail, his voice was of the opposite. It sounded deep and well-modulated.


    The young boy copied Sofia''s manner of greeting and bowed his head. A weak yet charming smile appeared on his face.


    "Young bro, you can call me elder sister Sofia if you want," Sofia casually suggested. She then extended her right hand to offer him a handshake.


    As  Felix gripped Sofia''s palm, she immediately noticed that it lacked some amount of force. It was also too brief and the young boy quickly retracted his hand the moment they made close contact with her fingers.


    Such a gesture in the corporate world could surely indicate the person''s lack of interest towards the other. But because the young boy''s face showed a sincere expression, Sofia understood him too well.


    Perhaps, he did not know. Since he was still young and was still ignorant about the heading meaning of a firm handshake.


    "Little brother, your hands are fine, right?" Sofia asked while glancing at the young boy''s hand. In her mind, since the old man only mentioned his legs, then, this boy should be capable of doing a proper handshake.


    "Yes, it is fine. I can even play games. But, I cannot walk for a long time, elder sister. That is why I have a wheelchair," Felix pouted.


    "Then, let this elder sister share to you a secret of handshaking. This is just between us. Do you want to know?" Sofia casually asked.


    "Yes, I want to know," Felix quickly replied


    "Hmmn, this secret that I will tell you must be applied in the future, okay?" Sofia stated while a small curl appeared in her mouth. It may not be his place to point this matter to the young boy. However, Sofia could not also bear letting Felix continue his way of doing things. He was young and teachable.


    "Yes, I will remember and use it, elder sister!" Felix agreed.


    "There is a symbolic bond or alliance once you make a handshake. In business and other events, the handshake will reflect your character as a person. People can judge you just by this gesture. So, if you have a firm grasp, it also means that you have a strong character. Come, let''s have that kind of handshake. Show me your character in this second handshake," Sofia muttered and urged the young boy to take her hand for the second time.


    The old man shyly smiled on the side.


    Felix finally grabbed Sofia''s hand and held it firmly. Then, after shaking them twice, a full grin blossomed on his lips.


    "Elder sister, I am just shy earlier. I do not mean to look weak," Felix felt the need to explain his first handshake.


    "Aiyyooo, there is no need to be shy. In the future, look straight in the eye and smile too once you exchange a handshake, okay?" Sofia added.


    Felix nodded his head obediently and did not speak anymore. He was staring at the lines of his palm and appeared in a deep trance.


    "Felix, show your elder sister some gratitude," the old man urged him.


    Upon hearing his great-grandfather, Felix looked up smiled at Sofia. "Thank you for sharing this secret, elder sister! I will remember to use this secret."


    "Thank you for giving my great-grandson a hint about the etiquette, little girl. Felix has a hobby of playing computer games since he cannot engage in outdoor games. Then, he saw your broadcasted tournament and became a fan of yours. Luckily, Nate reminded me about you!" the old man spoke with enthusiasm. "Here," he paused and took his phone from his pocket. "I will take a picture of the two of you! Felix, are you happy?" he continued while pressing the camera button on the screen of his phone.


    "Mmn," Felix replied.


    "Young bro, I''m glad that you find interest in virtual games. But, make sure to exercise self-discipline. Too much of anything is harmful," Sofia stated in a serious tone.


    "HAHAHA, now that you''ve mentioned this, little girl, I will say my thanks too," the old man said. His face showed a meaningful expression on it.


    "Grandpa, picture," Felix quickly reminded his great-grandfather before hs the old man could speak more to Sofia. The young boy was actually anxious for he indeed spent too much time playing.


    "Yes, yes... I will take a picture!" The old man raised his phone and focused his attention on the screen while looking at the angle of his subject. Soon after, the picture of the two teenagers, smiling politely towards the camera displayed on his screen.


    Sofia silently observed the two and looked satisfied.


    "Hehe, good, good," the old man mumbled with a tinge of satisfaction in his voice. He then gave the phone to Felix and looked Sofia in the eye. "Thank you! We will no longer keep your time. Just leave me your contact details and I will give you a call once this is finished."


    "Grandpa, thank you for taking my orders. This is really important for there is an event this coming Saturday. We are new and our hostel has not yet opened but we urgently need a uniform. I will save your contact details too," Sofia expressed and the two exchanged their contact information.


    "Say goodbye to your elder sister, Felix," the old man urged his great-grandson.


    "Bye, elder sister Sofia! I will support you and the Chronos squad!" Felix called and wave a goodbye to her.


    "I will contact you for your order, little girl. Just pay me after we finish everything," the old man added and bowed his head.


    "Thank you! Bye-bye!" Sofia smiled at them before she turned around and swiftly exited the tailoring shop.

 Chapter 224 - Old Reputation Cannot Be Altered But, The Right Attitude Can Be!

    "Miss Sofia, how did it go?" Danny asked after Sofia came out of the door.  She spent less than an hour inside the shop. Somehow, it felt ominous. And the man assumed that her concern about their uniform might not yet confirm by the tailor.


    "Did the tailor refuse your request, young miss?" Derek inquired too.


    "No, the old man agreed to embroider the logo of the company," Sofia politely replied.


    "Ohh, then how about the layout and design of the logo? Is it finished? As far as I know, they would take time to make a good design. But you only stay for a while inside their shop," Danny mumbled with a slight frown on his forehead.


    "I already have the design of the logo. So, we were just chatting for a while," Sofia answered.


    The three of them proceed to walk out of the narrow way. Sofia glanced at the vandalized walls on each side silently.


    As they arrived on the main highway, the road was already busy. Private owned cars and public buses going from every direction filled the lanes of the street. But their numbers were not enough to summon the heavy traffic in the place.


    They were standing on the sidewalk while Sofia was staring at her phone, reading the unread messages from Brent. It was the details of the wedding organizers that she needed to coordinate.


    Danny and Derek were silent and looked from the side to side. Their tall figures were domineering. Both men were vigilant as they stood behind Sofia. To the eyes of the other passerby on the pedestrian, they might confuse the two figures as Sofia''s bodyguards... or perhaps another way around?


    At first, people did not pay much attention as they passed by at their side. Some groups of teens ignored them and continued their way. But soon some older men and women and a group of a family walking along the sidewalk gave them a weird look.


    One old woman finally took the courage to walk near Sofia and whispered at her, "Young lady, are they bothering you?"


    Sofia was a bit startled and looked up to see the face of the passerby before she smiled at the old woman and noticed that she was staring at the two men behind her. A hind of coldness and disdain can be seen in her face.


    "They are working with me, ma''am," Sofia politely replied. Somehow, she made a guess that the old woman was probably aware of the reputation of Danny and Derek.


    "AH!" the old woman took a step back and suspiciously eyed Sofia. "Are they forcing you to do something? Tell me, my son is a policeman. I will call him right away," she continued.


    "What do you mean? Granny, you cannot just slander us. The young lady is really our employer. She already told you but it seems that you are implying something?" Derek spoke, unable to tolerate the old woman''s words.


    "Then, if they are not bothering you, I''ll go ahead. I am just concerned about your safety. Those people are the thugs in this area," the old woman stated and quickly left without waiting for them to speak.


    Sofia looked at her retreating figure until the old woman made a turn on the corner and she vanished.


    "Don''t mind what she just said. Although the words are insulting, her reaction is justifiable with your past reputation. Old reputations cannot be altered but, the right attitude can be! Instead of sulking, cultivate your temper and reflect for self-improvement," Sofia muttered. She did not mention any name but it was obvious that her words were meant for Derek.


    "Yes," Derek softly said.


    "Thank you for accompanying me. I will return to the company and will wait for sister Jing to pick me. You can make preparations for our soft opening on Friday and the big event on Saturday," Sofia commanded. They continued to walk on the side road going back to their establishment.


    "Miss Sofia, we can also accompany you for the entire day. Anyway, there is not much to do for us right now," Danny suggested.


    "I''ll be fine. I am not a celebrity that needs a bodyguard," Sofia joked. But then, something within her memory flashed in her thought. It was the memory of her past life. The day when the head security personnel of the Summers Holdings suggested that she take precautions and put a bulletproof glass on her office. At that time, she also similarly refused their suggestion.


    Sofia abruptly paused her movement as the memory of her past life continued to play on her thoughts. She lowered her gaze and stared at the asphalt on the ground.


    Danny and Derek looked at each other and felt confused by Sofia''s sudden action. But, since the young lady halted her steps, they also had to stop walking and maintain standing behind her.


    After a few minutes, Sofia nodded her head repeatedly. Then, she turned around to look at them and spoke,


    "Sister Jing will accompany me. She is familiar with the coordinator that I will meet. This is for the arrangement of our venue, including the theme and motif of the design. I think I''ll be fine. It''s better if you take a rest. It will be a physically tiring day ahead of us."


    Miss Sofia, rest assured, our stamina is strong. We will not get tired easily," Danny stated.


    "I know. Thank you for the suggestion. For sure, the day will come that we will need private bodyguards. But, we have not yet reached the level. You can rest assured too that I will be fine," Sofia insisted while they continued to walk towards their company.


    The two men did not argue with her anymore. They silently walked behind her until they reached their company.


    Jing Jing was already parking efficiently in front of the building. When she noticed Sofia and the other two men were walking near her, she rolled down the window of her door and waved at them.


    "Sister Jing, you are quick to come!" Sofia muttered and hopped inside the car.


    "Goodbye, Miss Sofia!" the two men subsequently waved at her and then looked at Jing Jing, "Hello Miss Jing Jing, please take care and drive safely!"


    On the driver side, Jing Jing playfully winced after hearing them. She crossed her arms on her chest and allowed a small smirk to appear on her lips.


    "Hahaha.... I never imagine that there will be a point in my life where I can hear those words coming from our mouth, guys! Aren''t you afraid that your reputation will be ruined by saying those sweet reminders?" Jing Jing joked as she returned the gesture and wave her hand to them too.

 Chapter 225 - Appointment With The Wedding Organizers (1)

    "Miss Jing Jing, don''t ridicule us. We are very sincere," Danny spoke in a serious tone but the lady continued to chuckle on her seat.


    With Jing Jing''s former employment, there was really no need for an introduction when it comes to her. Almost all people in district 7 know her face and these fraternity leaders were not exempted from it.


    "Don''t worry boys, I will drive safely. I am not a reckless driver," Jing Jing stated but the playfulness on her expression did not fade.


    When Sofia glanced at her phone again. It was to brief but Jing Jing took notice of her movement. By now, she had completely understood that such a gesture of the young lady meant that she was looking for the time.


    "Alright, time for us to leave. Bye-bye!" She quickly bid goodbye to the two men and drove off the road, leaving nothing but a cloud of dust behind. Sofia had just raised her hand did not get a chance to say or wave goodbye at the two.


    "Sister Jing, it''s still early. The appointment is at 11 am. No need to rush," Sofia stated. She had already notified Jing Jing about the coordinator before they met. Thus, there was also no need for her to speak of their destination.


    "Sofia, there might be traffic congestion. It''s fine to drive this way," Jing Jing grinned and looked straight ahead of them.


    "This speed is also okay," Sofia muttered in agreement.


    Five minutes before their appointment, Jing Jing pulled over at the residential area, exactly in front of the gate where the Carmella Cakes was located.


    The two stepped out of the car and peered inside the balcony facing them were an elderly couple was enjoying their tea.


    The scene was quite nostalgic to Jing Jing. When she brought the celebratory cake the last time she went to this place, the husband and wife were also sitting on the same spot.


    The elder woman waved at them and gestured for them to enter. Sofia quickly stepped forward and sauntered towards the elderly couple.


    "The young master of the Lee family had informed me of your visit. You must be Sofia? I am Carmella, the owner of this event organizer company. I also seel pastries, hehe," the elder woman introduced.


    "Your cake is delicious. Sister Jing Jing brought a cake for us the past few days," Sofia commented.


    "Ohh, thank you! I''m glad you like my products! I''ve heared that you are opening a hoster with a dining place? And this will be the venue for the reception of the wedding?" the elder woman responded. She gave a subtle glance and evaluate Sofia using her eyes.


    Sofia crossed her knees when she felt that Carmella''s gaze seemed to scrutinize her.


    "That''s true. I know Brent in a virtual game. And we happen to reunite during the online tournament. His bride is also my friend," Sofia affirmed to establish her relationship with their clients.


    "Ohhh... so you are friends with the Lee and Clenne family. I see," the elder woman spoke. This time, it was obvious that she was looking down at the young lady. It was as if she was inferring that Sofia would not be able to have her clients if it''s not because of her relationship with them. Her line of vision smoothly switched towards Jing Jing and she smiled widely at her. "Miss Jing Jing, it''s good to see you again!"


    "Hello, ma''am! Here is my employer," Jing Jing said shortly and looked at Sofia.


    "Employer? You choose to give up your promising career for a young girl?" this time it was the husband who questioned Jing Jing.


    "This is also a promising career. It''s way better than the former job that I have," Jing Jing defended.


    The elder couple exchanged a meaningful glance and shook their heads in disapproval.


    "Ma''am, I am here to speak with you about the decorations for the venue," Sofia maintained a respectful tone in her voice.


    "Oh right! I can''t believe that they are changing venue! And from what I have learned, your location is not so safe? There are thugs making trouble around the area?" the elder woman spoke her worries right away.


    "The location had long been neutralized. No one is causing trouble in the area. And the place is better for the reception," Sofia answered with a formal smile plastered on her lips.


    "Heh! Since the place has their own shady background, what advantage could it give to our client?" the husband inquire.


    Jing Jing slowly scratched the back of her neck. But Sofia maintained her composure.


    "There are a lot of advantages to the location. First, the Clenne Family is the leader of our district. If we can show to the citizens that the shady location will be the venue of the wedding for the mayor''s daughter, the citizens will know that the mayor was leading our district perfectly to the point of converting the shady places into an ideal reception venue. It will prove that the peace in this district is already here. This way, the image of the mayor is favorable for the next election," Sofia explained.


    "You sounded like that political analyst. How did you come up with this reasoning?" the husband questioned further.


    "I dare not claim to be one of those political analysts, sir. I am merely trying to observe our district and help the mayor to enhance our community," Sofia responded in a modest way.


    "Ohh... but this is only a one-sided advantage. Our biggest concern is the Lee family. We don''t want to offend their clan! They are powerful and can make us stop operating if they wished to!" the old woman stated with a lack of emotion in her voice.


    "As for the Lee family? Hmm, let me think," Sofia said and blinked her eyes several times.


    Earlier, she had expected that when she would meet these couple, they would directly discuss important matters such as the decorations of the venue and the pricing.


    Who would have thought that the elder couple was also interested in hearing her opinion to the big families of their district!

 Chapter 226 - Appointment With The Wedding Organizers (2)

    Sofia lowered her gaze and thought for a while. Although there are numerous advantages that Lee family could get on their arrangement, she has to give the elder couple the most appropriate response.


    Such subtle movement of Sofia''s eyes may not be caught by the two elders in front of her but it surely did not escape in Jing Jing''s eyes who sat quietly next to her.


    Jing Jing gently tapped her shoulder. Somehow, the warmth of her gesture connected and Sofia smiled at her.


    "The old master of the Lee Family is a man that inspires the young generation. He managed to build a legacy of wealth and successfully pass it to his son. To have such wealth, it was expected that the Lee family kept their family affairs exclusive. It''s just that, I could not help but wonder. Is it possible for me to have that level of success? If I think of this question, there is one clear answer that comes to my mind. It is not yes or no. My answer is... I can try," Sofia said firmly.


    She made consideration of her words and did not forget to compliment the old master of the Lee family.


    It was understandable that they do not want to take the ceremony and reception in public. But, Sofia had a different view...


    Opposite to her, the elder couple were both stunned by the response. Sofia''s words managed to tug in their heart and it lingered briefly in their mind.


    ''It is not yes or no. My answer is... I can try!''


    The contempt that they had for her completely changed to empathy. As the two elders shared a meaningful look, their eyes seemed to convey one message,


    ''Isn''t this also our mentality before we started our cake business? To try out a business and see our luck on it.''


    But the only difference was that the one talking with them and presenting this idea was perhaps half their age when they came up with the courage to try opening their cake business.


    That''s something that greatly astonished the two elders. Is the current generation youngsters were really business-minded than them in the past?


    Both elders scoffed to hide the astonishment in their expression. They raised their eyebrows with great coordination as if they had rehearsed how to react.


    "Ehem, the old master of the Lee family is indeed great and worthy of compliments!" the wife muttered as she adjusted her sitting position comfortably. Her husband took a cup of tea and silently nodded his head in confirmation.


    Sofia looked at them and opened her mouth, but before she could speak a word, the old man had already made a comment...


    "Since you also expected that they would privately do the ceremony, how come that they changed their mind and choose your place as the reception. Heavens! Of all places, they actually agreed to choose the very dangerous location! And of all available business, how could they trust youngsters to handle such important responsibility!"


    Sofia clasped both of her hands and smiled at the old man, "Dangerous location, that is in the past. Now, the intersection street is already safe. It is really safe."


    "Safe? Only you, youngsters, do not understand what the real danger is! Those rumors about the intersection street are not just rumors. There are really thugs creating trouble there. What if they will cause a scene in the middle of the event? Can you handle them? The police would not even dare offend those thugs!" the wife questioned.


    "Ehem, ehem," Jing Jing finally made a sound by clearing her throat and then smiled sheepishly at the elder couple. "Ma''am, the thugs that you mean are employed by Ms. Sofia. They will protect the place."


    "What?! You employed those troublesome adults?" the wife exclaimed as she subconsciously leaned sideward and gripped her husband''s arm.


    "Ma''am, with all due respect, let''s not talk about this matter anymore. I know that you are busy, let''s get into the business. If something wrong will happen in the reception, I will take responsibility and face all the blame," Sofia stated while raising her hand to gesture for them to end the topic. Since the husband and wife were overly concerned about the location, she could only initiate to change their discussion and proceed to the negotiation.


    "Young lady, you are quite eloquent and full of confidence! Back then, I teach in school and met so many students but, it is my first time to encounter someone with your character," the husband said as he gave Sofia a sincere smile.


    "Thank you, sir!" Sofia expressed in a humble tone. "The Lee family is the biggest network in our district when it comes to business. I think that using our place as the venue of their reception would show the character of being modest, a perfect representation of the young master''s balance in terms of his self-presentation. A good character is the most important thing than their wealth," she finished with a sincere smile on her face.


    "Right! That''s right! Let''s negotiate then," the elder couple agreed with much reluctance in their voice. They still wanted to talk about the troublesome adults on the intersection street. However, their appointment was indeed not for such discussion.


    "Then, about the venue, I would like to ask the theme, decor motif of the wedding so we can make preparation for the reception," Sofia stated while unlocking her phone. She opened the memo to take notes of the details but the elder couple waved their hands.


    "The decorations, we will prepare it. We already have types of equipment, all you have to do is to secure the place. Make sure it is safe for every guest," the old man stated.


    "Oh..." Sofia trailed. This was something that she had not expected. But such an arrangement would also be advantageous to her. It only meant that her employment would be on the sideline and observe the staff of the elder couple to do their job. "That''s great to hear! Then, may I ask about the budget price for the venue?" she inquired.


    "How much fee do you charge for it?" the elder couple retorted.


    Jing Jing took a deep breath. They finally come to the negotiation. And it occurred to her that both these two business owners were testing the waters. One was young while the others were old. But they seemed to have struggled drawing the digits for the price.


    ''I am suddenly curious as to how Sofia would respond when it comes to the price of the venue,'' Jing Jing mentally commented while she looked at three people with eagerness in her eyes.


    Sofia leaned backward and stood straight. The phone in her hand was casually placed on the table and she looked at the elder couples with a spark of confidence and determination in her eyes. "There are two ways that I want to set the price for the venue... First, we can go the expensive way. 500, 000 dollars."


    The husband and wife gasped and were totally shocked by the price. "Young lady, are you too eager to profit and have a turnover of your business capital? Being greedy will not do good! You must set a reasonable price!"


    This reaction was within Sofia''s expectations. Even Jing Jing tensed after hearing the price.


    "This is not about greed nor eagerness to profit. This is me setting the value of my business," Sofia softly answered.


    "Bah! You are just starting! You haven''t even opened this place yet! How can you give this ridiculous price?!" the old man exclaimed. The disappointment was evident in his voice.


    "What value? That is daylight robbery! Your business has no value yet!" his wife added. Even the budget of them as the coordinator of the wedding was three times lower than what Sofia''s price mentioned!


    Jing Jing also thought of the same way. Half a million dollars was equivalent to insanity! The price was indeed a rip-off. Who would spend this kind of money on just a venue? No one!


    As the three felt goosebumps and thought that Sofia was very unreasonable, the young lady maintained her calm composure. Only she had understood the desire for a sense of indulgence that truly wealthy people want.


    "Why do you set the price so high? Little girl, you are operating a business but you seemed to be unaware of the prices for your services?" the wife suddenly questioned as she held her husband''s hand. Even if she was already successful in terms of her pastry business, she knew that the amount is very high. For someone living in district 7, such a request could be seen as beyond the level of shamelessness. Perhaps, stupidity?


    But, since they were still negotiating, she also suspected that the young lady may not be aware of the price range of an event. Or rather, Sofia was deliberately setting an expensive amount so that they can have a benchmark of their negotiation.


    This trick of giving a high price is common in business so they could meet halfway. But when she glanced at Sofia''s face, it did not look like she was eager to have the price negotiated. It looked like the young lady had already decided the amount even before they came to meet them!


    Somehow, the old woman wanted to give Sofia the benefit of the doubt. When she looked at the young lady in the eye once more, there seems to be so much deeper things that she felt they did not know.. Even though they have called her greedy, she became curious about her reason for demanding such a ridiculous amount.

 Chapter 227 - The Value Of Expensive Or Priceless

    "I don''t mean to discourage your passion... but, may I speak something that is a little bit harsher? I hope you don''t mind?" the old man paused and his tone become cautious.


    Sofia shook her head ad replied, "Not at all. I''m all ears, sir."


    "Ehem! I can clearly see the spark in your eyes, young lady. It''s the same glow of enthusiasm back when me and my wife started to sell cakes. I''m glad to see a young talent joining the business industry!" the old man started softly.


    "Thank you for the compliments. We just want to try and see how far our success could go," Sofia earnestly said while looking at the elder couple with a friendly gaze.


    "Listen here, okay? I have been in this industry for so long. And we are quite successful. So, I must tell you this. Ahhm, consider this like a fatherly words or an elder giving you some speech," the old man continued.


    Sofia just smiled and encourage him to finish his words. She could tell that the man was reluctant to speak. Perhaps, it was because she was young and he thought that the girl in front of her is fragile. That if he said something rude, she won''t be able to handle it and he might destroy the dreams of the youth.


    "Okay, I will just say it. Operating a business is a great decision. But, young lady, unreasonable cost of service will not give you a profit. Instead, it will end your business. That price you just said, 500,000 is not acceptable in this district. NOT ACCEPTABLE!" the old man said with a serious expression on his face. He was determined to change Sofia''s mindset about the price.


    His line of vision was switching from Sofia to Jing Jing as if it was hinting for Jing Jing to help him make Sofia realize his point.


    Over the years of operating his family business, he had understood the perspective of his consumer. People, in general, will neglect expensive things. They would prefer the affordable service rather than wasting money.


    Hence, the old man was concerned about Sofia''s mindset and high ambition. He just assumed that because this business owner is young, maybe she was eager to earn money.


    On the other side, Jing Jing scratched the back of her neck and felt a little helpless. She gentle nudged Sofia''s arms and leaned closer to her. "Miss Sofia, most of the reception budget in our district can go from 300 to 500 dollars..." she whispered. This was the standard amount the other places had set. But for the Lee family, perhaps they were willing to extend this price by few thousand.


    However, let alone a thousand, her young lady boss is actually setting a six-digit price! The cost was enough to make anyone pale. But the young lady spoke of the numbers casually as if it was not a high price.


    "Sister Jing, I understand. Thank you for reminding me," Sofia calmly stated in a steady tone while glancing at Jing Jing.


    "How about we adjust the cost to an affordable price?" Jing Jing suggested.


    ''In the corporate world, there is no benchmark of what is affordable and expensive. The thing is, people will spend their money willingly as long as you hook their interest,'' Sofia secretly thought. But she just pursed her lips and smiled at Jing Jing. This kind of mindset is not something that a teenager like her would speak. If she will tell Jing Jing about it, the three people at the table will be suspicious of her.


    "My husband is right. Young lady, it''s fine to be enthusiastic about your business. But, you can''t go over the top and demand a price without any consideration of the customers," the wife said to support her husband. The couple sounded sincere and they felt sympathetic to Sofia.


    "I have made my consideration, ma''am," Sofia said.


    "Ahhh... even if we will agree to your price, the Lee family will not agree to this. Do you think they are a fool to spend so much money just for the reception venue?" the wife said with a long sigh. Her husband rubbed her back and gently smiled at her. The young lady was too hard to convince no matter how they spoke to her.


    "What do you think, young lady? Ms. Jing Jing is famous and knowledgeable in this place. How about you ask for her assistant in setting a price for your business?" the old man stated.


    "The price is reasonable. Our business can provide modesty and luxury. I can assure you that I will help you facilitate the decoration of the place," Sofia spoke. In her past life, wealthy families who lived in district 2 were even more than willing to spend millions to have a luxurious wedding. The Lee and Clenne family, if she combined their wealth, would have the same net worth as those wealthy families in district 2.


    Unfortunately, the gap between district 2 and district 7 was indeed too big. And the people in district 7 had set a cheap labor cost in exchange for mediocrity. These people pay much attention to sentiments more than anything.


    It was not a bad thing, yet, Sofia also wanted to give them a different experience. Beyond the sentiments, there must be a regal gratification of the ceremony.


    Weddings in their place symbolize a lifetime union. It was more than just a contract in the paper. It involved real emotions.


    "Not reasonable at all! Young lady, I am sure that the Lee family will share the same reaction to us once they know about the price," the old man argued. This time, his wife was rubbing his back to comfort him.


    "It''s reasonable for me. But if you think it''s not, I won''t convince you to believe me. Anyway, there is a second option for us to settle," Sofia opened up while maintaining a cool composure.


    "The second option? What is it?" the old man quickly asked.


    "No payment," Sofia answered.


    The moment Sofia spoke the word, the old man was about to sip his tea. But after hearing her answer, he directly choked and severely coughed.


    At first, he was certain that Sofia was greedy for setting such a high cost for her business. But after hearing the second option, he was completely stunned. No payment!


    "What do you mean?" his wife asked while he tried to calm himself.


    "The groom and bride is my friend. Consider the reception as our gift for their wedding," Sofia answered.


    "No way! In the eyes of the public, the powerful family of this district is bullying your business if we agree to no payment," the old man forced himself to speak his opinion.


    "Young lady, what are you thinking? At first, you gave us the price of 500, 000. This amount is unacceptable. Now, you are saying there is no cost for the reception! Such arrangement is also improper! Are you here to waste time?!" the wife scolded Sofia.


    "No, ma''am. The only resources that I would never waste are my time," Sofia softly replied. "As I said, it''s not about profiting. This wedding would be my first customer. I have to build value for my business. About this price arrangement, what I have in mind is that the value could either be expensive or priceless," she finished.


    ''Expensive or priceless!''


    These two options seemed to linger in the thoughts of the three other people at the table. All their mouths were slightly opened as if the idea had just made them drop their jaw.


    Such a concept of value was indeed something that no one in district 7 had ever thought. One option was directly hitting the money. The other option was grabbing customers which were also the lifeblood of a business.


    Of course, it was more profound than the three people could ever speculate. Providing a kind of service that is too precious that it could not be sold at any price. Not every business could offer it. Such commitment was too hard to achieve.


    "Young lady, the moment you have dropped these options for your business cost, I almost had heart attacks. I told you to adjust the price but not this way! In theory, the value of a priceless service is indeed good for the customers. It''s an act of charity. But, your business will also bankrupt. It''s not also good for you since you are just about to start the operation of your business," the old man stated after taking a few breaths. His hands were pressed on his chest while he was trying to steady his emotions.


    "I will keep that in mind, sir. You may choose which one is suitable for the wedding but please don''t negotiate with the amount. This is the value of my business. As for whether the business will go bankrupt, I have my personal plans. I know what I am doing,"  Sofia muttered hinting that she was done. She would not explain further to the two elders about her decision.


    As the organizer of the wedding, it''s up to them to decide which path they should choose. But under the fa?ade of these options, the two elders suddenly came into one realization.


    The young lady in front of them had calculated the situation very well. It was not as simple as choosing between paying the reception or accepting its service freely. There was so much more to it.


    "I''ll have to make a call. Give me a few minutes," the old man spoke and stood from his seat.


    His wife also took a stand and inhaled some air. "I''ll tell the kitchen to prepare the table for lunch. Please join us," she invited.


    Sofia and Jing Jing nodded but did not speak anything.. They just look at the two figures as they entered their house.

 Chapter 228 - Fragile Path Of Success

    After the elder couple left them, Jing Jing eagerly looked at Sofia and grinned at her. She clapped her hand and giggled.


    "Miss Sofia, I don''t understand the two prices that you have set. I could not explain how I feel right now. Should I be anxious or be happy? After all, the business will control my salary. Please tell me the idea of expensive and priceless cost."


    "I am not setting a price, sister Jing. I am setting our worth. The worth of the Chronos company. We must give the clients a worthy service so that they are interested to pay the amount," Sofia answered.


    "What''s the difference between price and worth?" Jing Jing probed further.


    "It''s the same. But, in our business, we are not just selling services. It''s too easy to set prices. We can do that to our food and rooms. Remember, our business is a hostel," Sofia said.


    "Ohh... so, what exactly is the one that you discussed earlier? Miss Sofia, even if you are younger than me, I truly admired your character. You spoke well in front of the two elders. They are considered giants in district 7 too. So... I want to understand the things that you said. I might be able to use the idea someday," Jing Jing felt helpless and expressed her sentiments. She was willing to learn and no matter how she think of it, she could not get to the bottom line of Sofia''s mind. The feeling was a bit frustrating for her.


    "Hmmm, sister Jing it''s just talking. Nothing is hard about it. The Chronos company offers rooms and food. These are the products that we will sell every day. We can set a price for everyone. As for the reception venue... it''s not every day that there are important events in our place. So, we need to establish a sense of exclusivity on it. That is why we have to negotiate with them this way," Sofia answered.


    "What if they will choose the option that does not cost them money? We will lose profit, right?" Jing Jing continued to ask.


    "There is no what if. Before negotiating, it is important to calculate the result. Sister Jing, you must evaluate the situation of the client first so you would be able to predict the outcome of negotiation before it even started. Every client has a unique personality. So, this kind of strategy is not applicable for everyone," Sofia prompted.


    "Ohh... You have predicted?" Jing Jing trailed and felt another headache on her head. It sounded simple but the more she thought of Sofia''s response, the more she could sense that it was actually complicated. "How are you able to evaluate the situation and the client?"


    "To evaluate the situation, we just have to observe and know them. In our case today, the client is the Lee family. Although they are low-key, their wealth and success are evident in the public eye. So, it is easy to give the two options to them," Sofia explained and slightly chuckled.


    "I am still worried. I''m sure they are contacting the Lee family and is telling them about the price," Jing Jing spoke anxiously while looking at the main door of the house where the elder couple went inside.


    "Sister Jing Jing, don''t worry. Brent is rich. He will pay that price," Sofia replied.


    "What if his father will pick the second option?" Jing Jing inquired.


    "The second option is also good. We can convince the heart of our public to patronize us. It''s a good marketing strategy since the Lee family is well-known and has a high status," Sofia quickly said. "But with Brent''s personality, he will choose to pay us," she added with no hesitation on her tone.


    "AH!!! You are sure that the young master of the Lee family will pay 500,000?!" Jing Jing exclaimed. Then, her hands subconsciously covered her mouth as if she was worried that someone would hear her. "What if the Lee family will think that we are scamming them?" she whispered.


    "Scamming? Sister Jing, our business is legal. We have all the permits to operate the business, why would they think that we are scamming them?" Sofia was now slightly amused. A slight curve appeared in her lips but it did not resembled a smile. It was more like a smirk.


    "But-, Miss Sofia, that price is beyond the standard cost for a wedding reception," Jing Jing defended. She secretly wanted to express that the price was a scam!


    "There is no standard when it comes to the cost of service. It''s just that the people have a mindset and principles when choosing the service they want. We must grab their interest and let them realize that we are worth it more than the money they would spend on us," Sofia thoughtfully said while checking her phone. She went straight to her emails and saw several unread messages from WINS, the leader of the FAB_Gamers squad.


    ''There is no standard when it comes to the cost of service?'' Jing Jing mentally repeated.


    A long silence suddenly followed around the balcony. Jing Jing was still processing what Sofia had said while the young lady had focused her attention on her phone.


    After several minutes, Sofia looked up and saw that Jing Jing was caught in a full trance. She smiled and waved a hand in front of her face.


    "Sister Jing, don''t think too much. Our business is not mainly to offer a reception venue for events. We are a hostel. We can offer rooms for rent and the restaurant. The nature of our business is accommodation and dining. As for the wedding reception, we won''t casually accept other events. Think of it this way... the clients must meet our standards first. And for us to impose this, we must establish a solid standard for them.  This is why we needed the Lee family. Brent will understand because he is a businessman. And he will agree because we are friends and I helped him establish the Lee Gaming Squad."


    "We are using the Lee family as a stepping stone to establish our worth?" Jing Jing absentmindedly muttered.


    "Yes, we are!" Sofia directly replied. Using someone sounded ugly but Sofia had a different thought perception about it.


    Such a direct confirmation from Sofia made Jing Jing quickly returned to reality. "What?!" she instantly exclaimed and frown appeared on her forehead. "Did I hear it correctly? Miss Sofia, we will use the Lee family?"


    "Sister Jing, I know that it sounded bad to use other people. But in reality, this is how the world business works. Resources and opportunities are tied by connection. And using people is not bad when you are directly connected to them. It''s normal," Sofia stated.


    "It''s normal? Huh?" Jing Jing sighed and took a big gulp as if she was trying to swallow all these information that she had learned from Sofia.


    "Well, sister Jing, remember the significance of connection in business. In the survival of a company, the top priority of the business owners is not the customers. It is their connection to the other business owners," Sofia spoke lightly.. "Even if the business has customers if the owner don''t have a good connection with other business owners, the path of the company''s success will be very fragile."

 Chapter 229 - An Impromptu Food Tasting

    "What I mean is that without connections in the corporate world, the business is very vulnerable and would be easily swallowed by the competitors. You''ll understand this concept soon, sister Jing," Sofia said while looking at Jing Jing''s face.


    "Wait, Miss Sofia, I wanna know something. Is the Chronos company connected to the Lee family?" Jing Jing asked. It did not seem like they had a connection. From what she knew, the Chronos company is composed of the members of the Chronos squad only. The young master of the Lee family is not part of their corporation. So, what was really the connection?


    "Not the company. Connection is not limited to being in the same company. As long as the direction is aligned with a similar goal and intention, it''s enough to form a bond. The business of the Lee family has a goal that aimed to develop district 7 by providing good and innovative infrastructures. I will help them if they ask assistance from us," Sofia responded.


    A young female servant suddenly emerged from the side and approached them. She offered a customary bow and slightly smiled at them.


    "Guests, the lunch is ready. Madam asked me to call you. This way, please!" she gestured for them to follow her before she turned around and started walking.


    Sofia and Jing Jing nodded and trailed behind her. As they entered the dining area, the first thing that Sofia noticed was the large cake types of equipment that were placed on the side.


    "Come, come, let''s eat before we finalized our negotiation," the old man said.


    "Thank you for the bountiful lunch!" Sofia expressed after seeing the table full of food. And the dishes on the plates were actually exquisite.


    "This is the food that we agreed to serve at the reception. I have called the mansion of the Lee family. And the young master had told me to ask you for a favor and have a food tasting on their behalf," the old man explained.


    "These bride and groom are busy with other things. So, they said that they trust you and will not disappoint them," his wife added.


    "Ohh... It''s an honor to do this for them," Sofia smiled.


    "Hehe, young lady, I also talked to them about the cost of the reception. And I have a good news to you! The young master had agreed to pay. I asked my assistant to make a contract. Let''s sign it later," the old man spoke freely.


    Jing Jing broke into a smile and clapped her hand happily. "Yey!"


    ''Alas! Miss Sofia had really predicted correctly!'' she thought.


    "Mmn, let''s sign the contract later!" Sofia agreed and started tasting the food on the table.


    "This is the menu of the food on the table. There are total of 20 dishes. Please put a checkmark and the cross mark on the side so we will also know which food we should serve," the old man continued.


    "This is my first time doing a food tasting for a wedding," Sofia chuckled. The three other people only laughed and did not think too much of her words. After all, she was just a teenager in their eyes. How would she get an experience with a food tasting at such a young age?


    Minutes passed and Sofia indeed place four cross marks on the menu while the rest of the other 16 dishes had a checkmark.


    "I''m finished tasting and my stomach is too full. I can''t move!" Sofia giggled. "There is nothing wrong with all these 20 dishes. The taste is truly appetizing. But the four on the list had nuts and seafood that may trigger an allergic reaction to sensitive guests. So, if you will put this on the wedding buffet, be sure to indicate the ingredients to avoid any incident," Sofia explained after showing the list to the elder couple.


    "Didn''t you say that it''s your first time to have a food tasting? Young lady, you seemed to be an expert!" the old man commented. He expected Sofia to say something like ''too sweet'' or ''too bland'' for the other four dishes. But it turned out, the young lady was actually giving them an important reminder that they had overlooked.


    "Haha, no, it''s really my first-time, sir. But, since my business is also operating a restaurant soon, I am also concerned with certain precautions in terms of food. I don''t have any allergy so I can taste all of the dishes," Sofia asserted.


    "Then, we will do as you say. Thank you for reminding us about the allergy. We have forgotten that the public is included as the guest of the reception," the old man stated.


    "I''m glad to help!" Sofia replied and finished the last portion of food on her plate.


    The couple smiled at her with a joyful look. Out of a sudden, the telephone started ringing and the old man excused himself briefly.


    He went to answer the telephone and Sofia followed his movement. The old man did not speak and only listened to the person on the other line.


    "The contract is here. Wait, I''ll get it," the old man announced and walked towards the other room which Sofia assumed was the office.


    "Young lady, I apologize for any rudeness that we may have shown earlier," the wife of the old man said. Her tone was actually showing deep respect for the young lady in front of her.


    "In fact, all you have said to me was also correct. We are new and we are not even operating yet. We should be considerate and lower the price of our services. But, because Brent and Grace is my friend, I know they will agree to my price. I''m taking advantage of them," Sofia boldly admitted.


    "Hahaha, you are something, young lady! I hope to have more cooperation with you. Ehh... let me tell you after my husband spoke with the young master of the Lee family, he also proposed to increase our payment. And the young master also agreed! We have benefited greatly!"


    Sofia gave her a smile. "That''s great!"


    "Here is your copy and here is our copy," the old man said after returning to the dining table. He handed two folders to Sofia and a pen.


    "Thank you, sir," Sofia said and accepted to folders and the pen.


    The foods were not completely eaten but the four of them were already contented that they did not bother transferring to the other table for the signing of the contract.


    They just sat there while reading the content and executing their signatures on the documents.

 Chapter 230 - Two Successful Businessmen Seeing A Different Future In Sofias Strategy

    Silence enveloped the entire dining area as they proceed to examine the contract on the two folders.


    "Very well. You paid details on the content of the contract, young lady!" the old man spoke softly.


    "Yes, sir. This is the most important part of why I am here," Sofia calmly replied.


    The old man smiled and understood what she meant. Their talk would be nothing if she could not secure the contract with her. If she signed a different content of the contract, then, she might lose everything. Her cautiousness towards the documents was normal.


    While the young lady maintained her lowered face to gaze at the documents that were laid down on the table, the elder couple secretly packed a box of cupcakes for her. Jing Jing was also reading the other document and did not notice the movements of the elders.


    "The contract is exactly what we have discussed," Sofia mumbled as she finished scribbling her signature and motioned to hand a copy to the old man.


    But, when her eyes darted back at the elder couple, she saw that they also held an eco-bag and pushed it forward towards her. Both their hands were in mid-air. One was holding a folder, while the other was the pack cupcakes.


    Sofia stared at the bag for a brief second and shook her head while understanding dawned upon her. The elder couple is giving her a gift!


    There was nothing wrong with receiving a gift. But, in this situation, Sofia felt uncomfortable. If others could see them, it could also mean that the elder couple is bribing her. In which case, Sofia felt the need to reject the kind gesture.


    "Ma''am this is too much. You have treated us a lunch. It''s enough. There is no need to gift us," she quickly stated while looking at the owners of the house. In her mind, accepting this innocent gift after securing a contract may cause great trouble for her.


    "Ehh, don''t refuse us, young lady. Here. Here, have some sweets on your way," the old man stated and moved the bag closer to Sofia. His face was full of insistence that made Sofia felt conflicted.


    "It''s a gesture of thank you for helping us finalize the menu of the wedding in the reception. Take it," the wife supplied.


    With much reluctance, Sofia grabbed the bag and smiled. "Thank you for this! See you around." She passed the bag to Jing Jing while her other hand held at the folder that contained her copy of the agreement.


    "Right, see you! Take care!" the couple said as Jing Jing and Sofia exited their house. They watched them together until the two get inside the car.


    "The young generation is fascinating. What a promising character! Our district will have a bright future ahead," the old man whispered before they also went back inside their house.


    "Miss Sofia, congratulations on the first client!" Jing Jing said with a joyous tone. She put the pack of sweets on the back seat and then maneuvered her car and started driving.


    "Thank you, sister Jing. Congratulations to us!" Sofia responded. She checked her phone again and started replying to the messages on her chats.


    "Miss Sofia, have you seen the post of the Lee Gaming squad confirmation to join the regional tournament?" Jing Jing casually asked. "I thought that the young master of the Lee family would have a busy day ahead considering that he is getting married. But, he actually announced that they will participate in the regional tournament!" she added after Sofia went silent.


    "It''s a political marriage," Sofia sighed bitterly. She did not need to elaborate further on what it meant. Jing Jing was aware of arranged marriages for the sake of common interest except for love.


    The wedding reception and ceremony were not yet even formally announced to the public. This was enough proof for them to believe that the marriage was not the most priority event for the young master of the Lee family.


    ~


    Meanwhile, in the mansion of the Lee family, the senior master pushed the door of his son''s office and barged inside the room. His face was fuming with anger that it had turned into the shade of scarlet red.


    "Are you out of your mind, Brent!? You agreed to pay the cost of the reception venue? What are you thinking?!"


    With his father''s sudden entrance, Brent was startled for a few seconds. He then took a deep breath and calmed himself.


    "Pa, it''s fine. I''ve already forwarded the money. Don''t be angry. Please take a seat," Brent groaned. When his organizer called him about the cost of the reception, he was also surprised. But, he did not hesitate to pay for the amount.


    It was within his expectation. What he did not expect was that his father would get so agitated about it.


    "You really lost your mind! Why did you agree to pay 500,000?" his father continued. He stood in front of his son like an ancient mountain. His face did not show any emotion but there was anger and disappointment in his tone.


    Brent helplessly walked forward and guided his father to take a sit. "Sofia is my friend and her business is new. I have to support her so she could profit. Besides, the organizer informed me that Sofia offered two options for the cost of the reception venue. It could either be expensive or priceless. So---"


    "What does it mean? Do you know her intention for giving this scheme?" his father interrupted.


    "Ahhh... according to our wedding organizers, it means... we can also choose not to pay for the venue. But, that''s totally inappropriate, right? After all, business is business. Friendship is a separate matter," Brent replied.


    His phone suddenly lit up and showed an incoming call notification. When he looked at the screen, Sofia''s name flashed on it.


    "Look, Sofia is now calling me. Don''t be so worried about this trivial thing, pa. It''s just money, okay? I''ll answer her call first," Brent stated and was about to move away but his father grabbed his hand, completely stopping his tracks.


    "Put that conversation on the speaker. I want to hear what that girl would say to you!" his father demanded.


    "Pa, don''t be like this. I will talk to Sofia alone," Brent insisted and continued to walk away.


    His father could only shake his head and glared at the back of his son. "Young people... tsk!" he whispered while gritting his teeth.


    The reason why his anger was boiling was not the money that his son agreed to pay. It was that his son acted right away and did not even contemplate his decision when agreeing to the price. Brent had always been very good with his decisions. But today, it disappointed him greatly.


    As the senior of the Lee family and the founder of their wealth, he completely understood Sofia''s proposal. Expensive or priceless. It was not a choice at all!


    Unlike the business organizer who happened to admire this strategy of Sofia, the senior master of the Lee family scorned the idea. To him, it was a trap laid carefully to take their money and gain huge benefits.


    The image of Sofia''s face suddenly flashed on his head and he clenched his hand into a fist. He slowly closed his eyes as he tried to calm himself.


    "The young generation is already this cunning and calculative! How scary and chaotic is the future business competition of this district would be!" the senior master murmured while gritting his teeth.

 Chapter 231 - [Bonus ] Advantages Of Both Sides (1)

    "500,000! Has your conscience finally made you feel uneasy, Sof?" Brent spoke casually the moment he pressed the answer button on his phone. There was no formality in his voice and he was grinning from ear to ear while waiting for the other person to speak.


    "Huh? Uneasy?" Sofia questioned with an obvious playfulness in her tone. She slightly giggled before her face turned serious, looking straight on the road.


    On the driver side, Jing Jing glanced at her and secretly listened to Sofia''s soft voice. The tempo of their background music was also slow which seemed to perfectly fit to tune up Sofia''s sound. The two of them were coursing on the middle of the road going towards the eastern side of the district.


    "Yes! You have obviously robbed me! Don''t even try to deny what you''ve done! It''s just because I''m such a generous friend that I approved the cost of the reception. But, you should feel uncomfortable taking my money!" Brent faked his complaint and pretended to be offended.


    "Hahaha, I did not rob you. But, I must thank you for your generosity! Your cooperation will always be remembered, young master Brent. This friendship had benefited me greatly!" Sofia responded. "Not all friends had the same willingness as you, Brent. Thank you!" She added in full of sincerity. The traffic light a few meters away from her had turned red and Jing Jing slowly stepped on the brake until the vehicle stopped moving.


    "Your welcome! As a friend, it is my obligation to give you a hand and make you successful too. After all I am a senior in this industry! Hehe," Brent stated.


    "You are flattering yourself, Brent! I''ve never realized that you could do that!" Sofia exclaimed while laughing.


    "Haha, am I? Anyway, I assumed that you are calling me today so you could adjust the cost of the reception to a reasonable amount. But now, I''m kind of disappointed," Brent continued to have a dramatic sound. He even leaned dramatically on the glass wall just outside of his office.


    "Disappointed?! Young master Brent, you must be kidding, right?! You don''t sound disappointed to me at all! Besides, who in the right mind would feel uneasy after securing a profit? There''s no way I will adjust the cost," Sofia retorted.


    "Then, why are you calling? Don''t tell me you have another request from me?! " Brent said in a suspicious tone.


    "That''s right! The young master of the Lee family is indeed insightful! You have even foreseen this plan and you quickly realize that that I have another request from you! Brilliant!" Sofia exclaimed her compliment.


    "Tsk!" Brent clicked his tongue and went silent for a long time. "Now, it''s you who is flattering me! Quick! What do you need from me? Could it be that you want to increase the cost? Bah, I am a generous friend but you can''t abuse my generosity!" Brent lamented.


    "I'' m not that greedy! Anyway, you don''t lack money. Why are you acting as if the cost of our reception had harmed your financial statement?! Please, I know this is just a loose change!" Sofia defended.


    "How did you know that your reception price won''t harm my financial statement. Don''t you know how big that amount is to me? 500,000! I could have used that amount for different investments! Why should I be willing to splurge something that I cannot profit?" Brent suddenly asked.


    Sofia only laughed. What big amount? In her past life, she handled multi-million and billion deals. 500,000? Such an amount was just a matter of a few digits in her eyes.


    "Young master Brent, you have announced your squad''s participation in the upcoming regional tournament. But, you did not announce your wedding ceremony which will happen this Saturday. Are you planning on boycotting the bride and not showing up on that day?" Sofia asked. Her tone was calm but there was a hint of warning that could be sensed from it.


    "What nonsense! I will show up! How can you slander your generous friend easily?" Brent cried. "Never in my wild imagination!" he added.


    "Haha, good, good!" Sofia almost broke into a pit of laughter. Dealing with Brent felt so easy for her. Perhaps, it was because both of them were inclined in the corporate world.


    "I know that you want to establish the value of your company, Sof! Since I am your first client, if you can get a huge amount of money from me, then, your next clients would not pay you less, am I right?" Brent asserted.


    "In business perspective, my friend, you are correct. However, that''s not my only intention, though. It''s a win-win trade for you too," Sofia responded.


    Jing Jing had started the engine by now as the traffic light had flashed to green light. She drove straight silently but her attention was still directed to Sofia. Since the conversation was not on loudspeaker, she could only hear Sofia''s collected response.


    "Win-win situation? Other than the reception venue, what else can I get from this agreement?" Brent inquired. A spark of excitement suddenly burst within his chest but he decided not to continue her arrangement.


    "Young master Lee, the only advice that I can speak as if this time is that, look forward to it. The money that you paid for the reception venue is worth it," Sofia replied.


    "Why are you being secretive now? Just tell me!" Brent urged her.


    "No way! I have to keep it a secret. Just in case you suddenly plan not to show up, then, you''ll definitely miss an exciting ceremony in your life," Sofia sighed and leaned on the window of the car.


    "What''s exciting about political marriage. The interest is not in love. Only on the financial benefits of both families. We are grown up. To compromise is something part of our life. But, you are still young, I do hope, you''ll marry for love," Brent stated.


    "That sounded so sentimental. I''ll marry for love when I get into the right age. But, for now, try to imagine this.... what if the two of you are having a subconscious bonds?" Sofia mumbled.


    "AHH, enough of this conversation. What do you want from me? Do you need my help so your squad can also participate in the regional tournament?" Brent asked but suddenly paused with realization, "That''s not right. You don''t need me since you defeated us in the district tournament!" he corrected.


    "It''s not about the tournament," she slightly rolled her eyes and her expression showed the wildness of youth. It was a different sight from how she usually expressed herself.


    "Then speak?! Out time is running and my father might not be able to suppress himself and snatch my phone away," Brent commented and slightly looked at his father inside his office. The senior master Lee was now massaging his forehead as if he was being beaten by his own thoughts about the future of their district.


    "Ahh, that''s right. Then, I''ll tell you this at once. My call today is about your wedding ceremony. I''m going to tell our private press to announce in public the opening launch of my business. Then, I will include the generous client, which is you.... and Grace, and the amount that you are willing to spend on us. All in all, I am calling not to ask a favor but to inform you of this plan. Just in case you''ll get shocked by the news headlines," Sofia explained thoroughly her dispositions.


    "Tsk! Win-win advantages indeed. Once my wedding reception will be officially announced in the public, you will gain exposure on your business. More customers for sure! My dearest friend Sofia, you are really something! Both in gaming and in operating your business, you seemed to have an endless strategy! And you don''t skip all the opportunities that are laid ahead. You seize them! I''m so proud to be your friend!" Brent mumbled.


    "Excuse me?! And why would the young master Brent think that I am using you for publicity? That is totally a cheap calculation of the situation. I don''t need any help with the publicity of my business. The Chronos squad is still the top trend topic on social media. One post of me and everyone will know about my business," Sofia argued.


    "Alright, alright, even if you are younger than me, I felt like you need to enlighten me with your plans then. Your mind is too deep to comprehend sometimes. I must admit it or I will be a hypocrite! This is kind of embarrassing, but, what exactly do you want to achieve, Sof?" Brent supplied. The young lady had her point. With the Chronos squad''s social standing, they did not need to use anyone for the public to notice them. The public had already been paying attention to the squad during the championship of the district tournament!


    "Young master Brent, think. Think carefully! Who needs publicity more than us?" Sofia suddenly asked.


    Who needs publicity more than them? And the next thing she heard was a long sigh from Brent.. Such response was enough to confirm that Brent had finally grasped what  Sofia wanted to achieve.

 Chapter 232 - [Bonus ] Advantages Of Both Sides (2)

    "The Lee family has no interest in politics, Sofia. But, I have my reasons to unite my family and the family of Grace. You are still young and won''t understand me," Brent whispered. He placed his left hand on the pocket of his trousers and stood straight.


    "I can''t understand... heh! Maybe, I can''t understand indeed! Your wedding, even if it''s just a political marriage, trust me, it will be beneficial to you in the long run. In the future, you will thank me for this public arrangement," Sofia said with a meaningful tone. Her statement was vague but it almost made Brent feel anxious. The future.


    "Ehem, young lady, no one knows what the future is. Who knows what will happen in my marriage in the long run. Our parents understand. As long as there are benefits, both families will maintain civil and continue to cooperate," Brent responded.


    "I have seen the future!" Sofia suddenly joked using an animated voice. This statement was actually the same line that the summoner character of the game would speak on the battlefield. The line of the character was exactly, ''I have seen the future, thus I summon you to my aid! No mercy!''


    Before Brent could react to what Sofia just said, she cleared her throat and decided to end their conversation. "I won''t keep you away from your responsibility, young master Brent. I know that you will have to practice your squad for the upcoming regional tournament. And you also have a business to manage, so, I''m hanging up now!"


    "Ehh... wait a minute!" Brent said but their conversation was already disconnected. "How rude! Tsk!" He chuckled and stared at Sofia''s contact details that were still displayed on the screen of his phone.


    "I have seen the future...? Wait, which game character is using this line?" Brent suddenly asked himself.


    "What are you mumbling? Have you gone mad?!" his father suddenly yelled behind him.


    Since this son had left him for too long, he had lost his patience and stepped out of the office to find Brent. But, the moment he went to the door, all he could see was his son talking in the air! He could not help but think of the worst! "My son, is the pressure of marriage resulting in you being restless? I''m afraid you''ll really lose your sanity out of this!"


    "Pa, the marriage is my choice! I don''t feel any pressure at all!" Brent quickly dismissed and guided his father to get back inside his office.


    "B-but, I just saw you talking to no one! Hmmph!" his father reasoned. His hard face had shifted and displayed a worried expression.


    "I am just thinking about some game characters after talking with Sofia! It has nothing to do with my wedding ceremony!" Brent pouted while giving his father a sheepish expression.


    The senior master Lee waved his hand and shook his head several times. "Game characters! Are you planning to embarrass Grace and her family by talking about games? You are this old but you still play around with this kind of game! When are you going to retire? YOu should let the young generation have the opportunity to play!"


    "Pa, gaming is already part of our family business! Nothing is embarrassing. It''s my happiness. Even if I talk about it for the entire day and night, Grace will be fine by it!" Brent said and took a seat.


    "I should have disciplined you when you are young. It''s my fault that you are now addicted to games. Look at your sister, she is also wasting her time for these virtual games!" his father sulked and also sat opposite him.


    "Hehe, you just love us the most," Brent laughed gently and his voice turned warm.


    "What flattery! What did you discuss over the phone? Tell me!" his father stated.


    "It''s about the official announcement of the wedding ceremony to the public. Nothing that could interest you," Brent replied curtly and started checking the stacks of documents on the side of his table.


    "Ohh... son, I must tell you this. Women are capable more than you could imagine. Don''t trust them completely. A wife or a friend, you must be vigilant. Do not let them take advantage of you," the senior master Lee suddenly spoke.


    Just as he wanted to add another piece of advice, Brent signaled him to look behind. When he turned around, Brent''s mother was standing sternly with her hand placed on her waist.


    "Old master, do you have something to explain? I did not know that you are actually vigilant towards me!"


    Upon hearing Brent''s mother, the senior master Lee completely paled. He forced himself to smile and slowly stood from his seat. "Darling, I am talking about the outsiders. Not you, hehe," he reasoned.


    "Outsiders? Ohhh... outsiders..." Brent''s mother deliberately repeated and looked sternly at her husband.


    "Ahh... I am wrong! I should not say those words to our son. Darling, don''t get angry!"


    Brent chuckled while watching as his father moved his feet towards his mother. He continued to watch as the senior master Lee was attempting to massage his wife. But his mother completely ignored her husband and stepped forward and took at the empty chair.


    "Ma, you know father. He is just joking," Brent spoke and smiled at his mother.


    "Right, right, right! I am just joking. I am not serious at all!" his father agreed right away.


    "You better be joking. I am still alive and you have a daughter too. Yet, you are teaching your son to doubt his woman. What kind of father are you?" Brent''s mother rolled her eyes and scolded her husband.


    "Aiyyahh... Darling, I don''t dare doubt you. You are the most trusted person in my life. But, we belong to an era where dignity and integrity are as precious as gold. Now, the era of your son is different. There are so many people who want to use trickery and abandon integrity just so they could profit," the senior master Lee hurriedly explained.


    "Enough!" Brent''s mother raised her hand to stop her husband. Then, she stared at her son for a long time. "Are you sure you will pay the cost of the reception? That is just a place. We can find other locations that are cheaper."


    "Sofia is my friend. She had helped me a lot in the past. It''s time for me to return the favor that I owed to her," Brent calmly replied.


    On the side, his father had an expectant gaze on his wife and son. He was secretly happy that Brent''s mother was also opening the discussion about the cost of the reception. He had assumed that his wife would not agree with Brent.


    But, little did he know, the woman just smiled and gave her son an approving look.


    "Good! Don''t listen to your father''s nonsense! Members of our Lee family must give value to people, relationships, and connection more than money."


    Brent''s father helplessly sighed after knowing that his wife was not on his side of the argument. He took a big gulp and swallowed all the words that he wanted to say.


    The senior master Lee did not bother speaking out his opinion and just silently frowned at the overall situation, casually nodding to avoid provoking his wife.

 Chapter 233 - Sofias First Prospect Of Future Subsidiary Company (1)

    "Sister Jing, do you think my goals are too high?" Sofia suddenly asked.


    Hearing such a personal query, Jing Jing slowed down her driving speed and slightly bite her lower lips. Her gaze barely lowered before her attention returned to the road signs on the streets.


    "Why do you suddenly ask me? Miss Sofia, did someone make a comment that your goals are too high?" she inquired.


    "The outsiders can say what they want... I can do what I want. So far... I think, no one has known about my goals. But, you have accompanied me, so, you must have figured out some of my plans, right? What do you think, sister Jing?" Sofia implied. Her clear eyes shifted towards Jing Jing''s face to see her expression. She quickly perceived that Jing Jing became a little cautious towards her question.


    "Hmmn, I am not that capable of reading someone''s goals just by accompanying them, Miss Sofia. You think highly of me but I have not really figured out your plans. I can only see that you want to start the business. But as to why you choose this business or what you want to achieve behind this, I am not sure," Jing Jing smiled.


    In her mind, it was not as simple as opening a business or earning a profit. She had observed and speculated Sofia''s plans but understanding the reason behind the young lady''s decisions was a different matter that Jing Jing would not dare to do.


    "Ohh... o-okay," Sofia replied. Unlike Jing Jing, she could completely comprehend the cautious nature of Jing Jing. Sofia knew that such character was one of her best qualities. The lady would not easily jump to conclusions nor assume unless there is a certainty.


    "Miss Sofia, let me help you with the publicity of the wedding ceremony. I shall contact Boss Wang directly later to arrange the promotion of the grand occasion. With this information, he would be ecstatic to publish the news to the public!" Jing Jing told Sofia without glancing at her. She focused her eyes on the road and continued to drive.


    "Yes, thank you, sister Jing," Sofia said, completely dismissing the earlier question that she had asked.


    "Haha, in terms of age, I can be considered as your big sister! Yet, you handled most affairs of the business, Miss Sofia. Just by listening to your phone conversations, I felt guilty to see you doing these arrangements that I could do too. You can just tell me to do it, you know? After all, I''m your employee!" Jing Jing chuckled and reminded Sofia of her role. Her hand gripped the steering wheel and as they speed up straight ahead of the street.


    "Mmn, it''s not that much to do. But, once I have too much on my shoulder, I will surely ask for your assistance to carry some company responsibilities, sister Jing! Especially in the future. There will be a lot to oversee," Sofia agreed.


    "In the future... yes! I look forward to that! Anyway, now that you have secured the cost for our venue, what''s your next plan?" Jing Jing curiously spoke.


    "I wish for our business to launch an app to showcase online customers too. It''s a wide market and more convenient. Sister Jing, there is a small post in the 4th block from this street. I''ll have a meeting with the experts in software development to create the online application," Sofia answered.


    "Experts?" Jing Jing wondered.


    "Uhm.. yes! I wonder if you are familiar with them, sister Jing? Their names are Franco and Riel."


    "Riel... Franco... Hmmn... I remembered these names back in my college department but they are not experts at all! How shameless of them to call themselves experts in front of you! They are pretending to be experts to find a job," Jing Jing grimaced. Several lines had appeared on her forehead as she frowned at the idea that someone had actually scammed Sofia.


    "Oh, it''s not what you think, sister Jing" Sofia pursed her lips.


    She did remember when she initially chatted about developing an application to the two men. They did not claim to be experts indeed!


    But, Sofia also remembered some fragments of memories in her past life, these names would become well-respected in the software industry.


    They will gain recognition in encryption and decryption not only in the local and national fields but the in international arena. A multi-billion software engineers that had sold so many codes in the famous online sites.


    It was a fortunate encounter that she meet them before they have established their status. Hence, she would never let such an opportunity to build a connection with them be slipped away from her grasp.


    On the other hand, Jing Jing still felt that someone was taking advantage of Sofia because of her lack of experience. This made her upset.


    "Are they scamming people now? In district 7, there is no expert when it comes to software development. Miss Sofia, please reconsider your meeting with them," Jing Jing paused and thought for a while. "Well, if you want to look for software developer experts, I could make a suggestion now. You should hire the developers in district 4. They are well known in this field. I can contact them too," Jing Jing offered.


    "It''s fine. I remembered that they did not really describe themselves as experts. I just think that they are experts. Since developing software and programming are hard to do, those who finished this degree must be called experts! Besides, we must support our local talents," Sofia answered in a clear voice.


    Jing Jing could only nod her head and did not argue anymore. As she pulled over the side of the street, she saw two men dressed casually in jeans and shirts. It was the location that Sofia had told her to meet the so-called experts.


    "Here we are, the fourth block. I should come with you and meet them. In case they will exaggerate their skills when talking to you, I will definitely intervene, hmmmph!" Jing Jing stated and swiftly stepped out of the car before Sofia could reply to her.


    The young lady could only shake her head while looking at Jing Jing, who was glaring at the two men.


    Sofia then grabbed a brown envelop from her bag and pushed the car door open.


    "Hi, young boss! Good to see you again. The famous Jing Jing is here too. Hehe... Hello! Hello! Young boss, have you really finished the design?" Franco chattered and waved his hand at Sofia and Jing Jing. He was grinning from ear to ear which made Jing Jing secretly roll her eyes.


    "Yes, I have made a draft. But, I have to require the two of you to sign a non-disclosure agreement and exclusivity of this software," Sofia casually replied and pulled a different set of papers inside the envelope.


    "No problem. Let me lend your pen and we will sign this!" Franco affirmed.


    After Sofia handed a pen, the man turned around and went to his companion.


    ''''What''s so great about her design that we must sign this agreement? I think that she is thinking too highly," Riel whispered to Franco.


    "Just sign the papers! I have placed my signature. We are lucky that this kid is willing to hire us. Without her, we have no more means of earning money!" Franco stated.


    "Fine!" Riel compromised and took the pen. He quickly scribbled his name and signature before handing the paper back to Franco.


    "Young boss, we have signed the agreement!" Franco said and returned the paper to Sofia.


    "Okay. Here are the drafts that I have created. I also researched some coding commands but I''m not really an expert. So, the drafts might be confusing, These are the designs," Sofia answered and hand the envelope to the man.


    "Designs?" Franco repeated while opening the envelope and pulling out the papers from it.


    In just a single glance of the content, his eyes suddenly dilated and his mouth slightly opened. A shocked expression slowly formed on his face.


    "Young boss--- this... this is very detailed! Wow! You even make some descriptions on the side of your drawing! Ehh?! there are three designs? For a short time, you managed to make this?! Young boss, you must be kidding! Even us cannot do it in such a short span of time!"


    "Of course, Sofia is amazing! How could you compare your capabilities to her!" Jing Jing interrupted.


    "Amazing! It is amazing! Young boss, you are more capable than us! You are a genius!" Franco clapped his hands while complimenting her.


    "I just researched some functions but I don''t know how to code. So, I can only make these drafts. Well, look at this, the first design is for the room accommodations of the hostel," Sofia said and pointed at the particular page where only rectangles, squares, circles and, various arrows have been drawn to connect the shapes.


    If it is seen by ordinary people, the content can be considered as an artwork of a child that started to learn to draw. But because there are descriptions and labels, Franco had easily imagined the app that Sofia wanted them to build. The shapes signifies the buttons and it''s commands. Some other explanations were also written on the side of it.


    "I hope the commands that I wrote can be discerned easily. Basically, that page will show the available rooms and the rates. The second design is for the dining services. It should display the menu and prices of our products. The bottom portion should allow them to make online reservations," Sofia continued.


    "It''s clear, young boss! Very clear! I can imagine the layout and the environment for this application," Franco supported.


    "That''s a relief. As for the last draft, it is for the user profile. This will contain all profiles of our customers, Names, birthdays, and even their bank details if they want to add such information. Make sure that this must have the highest level of encryption to protect the data,"  Sofia told them while pointing the documents simultaneously.


    "Riel, come and take a look at this," Franco yelled at his companion who maintained a few meters distance away from them. When the man did not move right away, Franco glowered at him with wide eyes, a gesture that could be seen as a warning.


    The man reluctantly took a few steps near them and finally looked at the designs.


    "Young boss, Riel is good in encryption. You can rest assured, we will do our best to complete this project. With your detailed design, we can start coding and follow this blueprint right away," Franco stated.


    "He is good in decryption," Riel stated and gestured his hand towards Franco but his eyes were still looking at the contents of the papers. After a while, he looked up and stared at Sofia''s face. "Great descriptions! We will follow the instructions that you have written here. If there are certain modifications of the design, we will inform you right away."


    "No need to inform me," Sofia instantly waved her hand.


    As if she still had a time to facilitate these two!? She had an upcoming tournament and her business is about to start its operation, plus her school works and responsibilities too. Even if she wants to split her body, it would not be able to oversee these two people''s job!


    "Just do what''s best and make it simple and user-friendly. I have no proper education in the field of programing or any software-related courses, so my knowledge right now is limited. But, I trust your skills can create the app that is needed for the business," Sofia said in a sincere tone.


    "We will not disappoint your trust and we will work hard to create this. Young boss, rest assured, we will dedicate our time to finish this project," Franco vowed and nudged Riel to speak.


    "Yes, we will finish coding your app as soon as possible. But, there are only few of us. So, it may take time for this program to be completed.. I hope you don''t forget the initial agreement about our payment," Riel directly said.

 Chapter 234 - Sofias First Prospect Of Future Subsidiary Company (2)

    "The Chronos company will rely on your ability in software development. Once you complete this application, I hope you would also get the necessary registration and license to formally be the developer and launch the project," Sofia casually expressed. There were no changes in her expression, and she maintained a firm tone while talking to them.


    However, the two men widened their eyes, and they looked at each other for a long time...


    "Young boss, what did you say?!" Franco was the first to find his voice. He subconsciously grabbed Sofia''s arms and shook it with disbelief in his eyes.


    "Hey! Back off, what are you doing?!" Jing Jing smacked his hand and pushed him, but her force was too little that the man only smiled and stand properly.


    "Sorry, I was just too shocked. I think there is a misunderstanding?" Franco hurriedly apologized.


    "What misunderstanding? Miss Sofia wants you to develop an app for the business. Is it hard for you to comprehend this simple task?" Jing Jing questioned. She pointed her index finger and poke the envelope that the man was holding several times.


    "Ehem!" Seeing Jing Jing''s aggressive gesture, Sofia cleared her throat and took their attention back to her before they starts to bicker. She just had no time to spare for watching her subordinates argue.


    The two of them shifted their attention and looked apologetic as they faced Sofia once again. But they did not make any defensive comments from their actions either.


    "We are here to discuss and sort things. Please, let''s concentrate on this matter. I still have a class to attend later. The sooner we finish this meeting, the better it would be for me," Sofia stated with a pleading tone.


    The two who were about to argue could only look up in the sky and stared at the white clouds covering the sun.


    They turned silent after Sofia''s reminder. Perhaps, a little embarrassed that they were older than her, yet they had displayed a temper that was no better than a child.


    "In my understanding, you asked us to develop an application for your business. This, we have no problem completing your request. Once the app is developed, then, we will give it to you alone since we signed the non-disclosure and exclusivity agreement," Riel suddenly spoke. He looked at Sofia in the eyes, as if he was trying to read what she was thinking at that time.


    "I want you to develop an app and manage them for us. No, I hope that you could start not only a business in developing this app but also to start a company for software development. Make this app as your starting point," Sofia corrected.


    "Manage? Start a company?! Hah! We can create the software but being an admin of the app is a lot to do," Riel stated and gazed at his companion with a conflicted look.


    "Young boss, what we do right now, we can develop software, do certain programs and codes and sell them. We have no capability of launching and managing an entire app. It''s complicated that what you are thinking," Franco supplied.


    "Don''t you want to start your software company?" Sofia inquired and looked at the two men with seriousness in her eyes. Jing Jing who was still looking at the sky suddenly turned her head and stared at Sofia with a surprised expression on her face.


    Who would have thought? Sofia actually wanted the two men to have their companies! All along, they assumed that she was just requesting for the two to create an application for her business. It was indeed a great misunderstanding!


    "Start a software company? Hahaha, we can only dream of that. But this is reality. It''s not easy to start a company," Riel laughed at the idea. He just never imagined that he could own a company. All he aimed was to have a stable job to earn a good income in his lifetime.


    "We are not that ambitious, young boss. We thought that this is only an employer and employee arrangement. Not something as big as starting our company," Franco also shook his head and shrugged his shoulder.


    "What do you lack for you to doubt yourselves? You have the degree and knowledge. I can see the confidence when you told me that you can create the application. With the right skill, you can form a company and succeed in the industry too!" Sofia challenged.


    Upon hearing her words, the two men went into a long silence to ponder her ideas. Slowly, they made a self-evaluation of their initial reaction. It''s not that they lacked skills. It''s just that no one had really pushed them beyond their comfort zone. And Sofia had just done it, just by mentioning the idea to them.


    Developing an app was easy for them. They have done selling codes and computer programs even before when they were still students. They will just face their screen and do coding all day. It was their comfort but to start a company was a different thing. They have to make proposals and engage in business talks with their clients.


    They were confident to create a code. But they were not confident to develop a company.


    "We lacked everything!" Riel replied to Sofia.


    "If you think you lacked everything, then why are you still here? Why are you standing and talking with me?" Sofia asked him.


    "Maybe not everything... j--just almost everything," Riel stated softly.


    "There will always be an area for improvement."


    "..."


    "There will always be an area for development. "


    "..."


    "There will always be an area for growth."


    "..."


    "Everyone has their own starting point."


    "...."


    "So what if you lacked almost everything?"


    "..."


    "You don''t need to be an expert to start something big."


    "..."


    "But for someone to become an expert, they must have the courage to start at something that possessed right now... You must have the guts to start dreaming big to become big!" Sofia responded with long pauses in every sentence. She deliberately waited for them to speak however, in every sentence that she said, there was only silence from the two men.


    "Don''t waste your talent and education. There is nothing wrong with being employed by others. But, I think, the two of you are suitable to be an employer instead of an employee. If you have no confidence in starting a company, you can associate with the Chronos squad first.. Start a company and become our subsidiary," Sofia finished.

 Chapter 235 - Sofias First Prospect Of Future Subsidiary Company (3)

    ''This teen... Miss Sofia, you are really something...'' Jing Jing trailed in her thoughts while Sofia faced the two men, persuading them with her idea of starting their company.


    To watch someone as young as her lecturing about growth and development, it''s almost as if Jing Jing could see her professor back when she was still studying. The same manner and the same tone. But the gap of age was too big.


    It was not her first time to see Sofia having such a firm bearing. She had seen this kind of attitude before. The young lady''s strong sense and belief of her belief... In her eyes, it would always be an incredible scene to see.


    If the two men were characters in the game, then, Sofia had completely silenced them with her lecturing skills. They just opened their mouth and find no more words to say.


    "Are you sure about this decision, Miss Sofia? We have not yet started our operation. Can we offer them to become our subsidiary?" Jing Jing whispered behind her after not hearing any response from the other side. She had never heard of such an arrangement where a starting company took in a subsidiary. The risk was unimaginable. They had not yet earned a stable profit. If they share their resources, there was also a tendency for them to lose big time even before they could profit!


    "I am sure. Sister Jing, we can make adjustments in our organization, later on. As long as they agree, it''s doable! Anyway, once they got their licenses, our company is already in operation," Sofia softly answered.


    "Young boss, we just want to earn money," Franco reluctantly said after noticing that Sofia and Jing Jing were secretly exchanging a conversation.


    "Believe me, if it''s just money that you want to gain by getting a salary from constructing computer systems. Then, my idea will give you tremendous profit! There is so much opportunity in the area of owning a company in software development. With the right attitude and skills, your pockets will not go dry. Money will only overflow!" Sofia answered and tucked her hair behind her ears.


    She was no longer aware that her way of talking to them had gone beyond her current age. Fortunately for her, the three people around were also too surprised that they have no time to notice or question her way of talking.


    Despite standing on the side of the road for a very long time, the other passerby has not bothered to pay attention to them.


    At that time, Sofia was like a vendor. But instead of talking about a certain product to make sales with the two men, she was actually marketing them the idea of starting their own company. And Jing Jing could tell that her words had almost convinced them.


    "If we open our company and become your subsidiary, what will happen to us?" Riel questioned.


    Because most citizens in district 7 had really no objectives of starting their company. These two men only pay attention to getting money by working.


    So, for Sofia''s suggestions, they really had no idea how to even start. Heck, they did not even bother knowing about the licenses needed for their line of work!


    Creating a series of codes and selling them were easy tasks. Even students who had access to coding could do it.


    Based on the law of district 7, this kind of job does not need them to get any license. They were not bound by any legal responsibility other that their the agreement between employer and employee.


    Only the company or the employer that would launch the programs must have the license to ensure that the content of their software programs would adhere to the humanitarian guidelines and the internet legal protocol.


    "You don''t know where to start?" Sofia asked.


    "We don''t want to start a company!" Riel reacted with a helpless tone of voice. He even stomped his feet to make an emphasis on their situation.


    "Why not? If you are scared of the responsibilities, then, I will help you and give you the resources needed. Within a year, the Chronos company will assist the two of you to meet clients," Sofia offered.


    "Huh?!" Riel crumpled his face and looked lost in Sofia''s persistence.


    "Just do what I say. I''ll guide the two of you," Sofia calmly answered.


    "And--- young boss, what will you get from giving us guidance and your resources?" Franco also inquired while scratching his head.


    "Profits! But that''s for a long-term partnership," Sofia stated.


    "What''s the deal really?" Riel sighed.


    "Hmmn... Our deal would be... The Chronos will help you and we won''t claim any profit in your initial year. You can have all the money. But for the next succeeding years, the annual profit will then be split into 50/50. As for the ownership, 50% should be owned by the Chronos company. If you have enough money in the future, you can also buy this 50% share from us and be an independent company," Sofia explained.


    To put it simply, the Chronos company will be obliged to assist them to find the necessary resources to start. In exchange, the company will give Sofia 50% ownership of them since she is the registered CEO of the Chronos company.


    It would be a collaboration but the advantage was really more on the part of Sofia.


    ''Alas! If these two did not hesitate to start a company, they would probably become richer than my Chronos company. But, since they are unwilling, then, I can only push them by offering support,'' Sofia mentally commented while waiting for the two to respond. But she could not blame the reluctance of the two men. After all, they were not like her.


    To become a subsidiary of the Chronos company, it was only reasonable for such an arrangement to let Sofia have 50% ownership. This is the absolute rule of their corporate world.


    "We came here to provide you an app, we did not expect that we would discuss a much serious plan. We are not fully prepared," Franco sighed.


    "No need for any preparation. I will handle the rest. If you want to waste your talent, I can''t bear to see it being wasted. I won''t allow you to waste your potentials either. All you need to focus it to get the necessary license and, I will give you the resources. Don''t think too much, it''s not that complicated as developing an app. Contact me or sister Jing anytime," Sofia commanded.


    Without waiting for their response, she looked at Jing Jing and signaled them to leave.


    Jing Jing nodded her head and they turned around and started walking towards their car. After sitting comfortably inside, Sofia rolled down the window and waved goodbye to the two men.


    Not long after, they left the two men who were still in daze while staring at the empty road.

 Chapter 236 - [Bonus ] Career Focus (1)

    "It''s better to have this arrangement with them too," Sofia murmured while her mind drifted towards the first company that her group would take.


    She was 101% confident about the great future in programming and software development. The industry in district 7 may have not reached to this point. But, it would soon happen.


    She knew based on her previous life that those who had real skills in the software industry would be game changer. Businesses in the district would soon shift from having a physical store to virtual stores in the next years to come.


    Shopping products and making orders of purchase would one day be switched to online... and this  would dominate the business industry. And majority of the customers would always choose this kind convenience.


    In fact, there was a moment after Sofia''s transmigration where she was also contemplating whether to learn the programming skills. It did occur on her mind. She would have enrolled it, after her high school.


    But because the desire for gaming had been enveloped in her mind, no - rather, it was the original owner of her body''s desire to just play games, so, she never really made thorough consideration and plans about learning programming and software design yet. Her attention had still been focused mostly on gaming and her squad.


    But now that she had met Franco and Riel, she decided to continue what she always wanted and forget the idea of engaging her skills in software.


    ''A career focus is a key to maximize the progress of my plans in the company. Avariciousness is stupidity. It might just ruin my new life if I possess more. she secretly thought.


    After all, even though her situation is special, she is still human. If her attention in managing her business would be divided, she was afraid that it would compromise the degree of success that she expected. She completely understood that being greedy to have everything would also bring harm to her and the people around her.


    It was enough for the Chronos Company to maintain a connection and partnership with the two men. More than enough since she planned to make them their subsidiary.


    "Ms. Sofia, which location do we go to now?" Jing Jing suddenly asked her. They had already reached the uptown road of the district.


    "Sister Jing, find a place for us to grab a drink. I''m thirsty. We can also contact Boss Wang while grabbing our drinks," Sofia prompted.


    "Alright, there''s a caf¨¦ in the corner. Let''s order there," Jing Jing responded and slowed down the speed. Soon, she glanced at the side mirrors, left and right, before making a safe turn to a vacant lot, where she would park her car.


    On the other side, Sofia briefly shut her eyes. She lifted her hand onto her head and subconsciously pressed them to massage her forehead. The feeling of slight fatigue and pain in her head started to overcome her senses. After all her appointments, her body seemed to have been drained.


    Jing Jing finally parked the car then turned off the engine. She pulled the key and looked over at Sofia.


    She noticed the young lady''s movement of holding her head and frowned. Jing Jing gave a long sigh and scratched her hair while Sofia had her eyes closed.


    "Are you having a headache? I''ll give you a painkiller," she said and pressed a button to open the front drawer of her car.


    Once it opened, the drawer revealed a lot of medical kinds of stuff and medicines in different shades of colors. Some were white tablets, others were red capsules. And there were also placed in small orange bottles. "Just choose which medicine you want to use," Jing Jing casually offered.


    Sofia gazed down and randomly picked the tablets that were packed individually. She carefully read the label before placing them in her pocket.


    After getting her medicine, she carefully closed the drawer and smiled at it.


    "Thank you, sister Jing. You have a small pharmacy inside this car," she joked while her eyes were still in the drawer.


    She momentarily remembered, although it was vague memories, she recalled that during her past life as CEO, Jing Jing - her secretary, had also stuffed first aid kit on the drawers of her car. Wherever they go, Jing Jing had everything prepared. Seeing the insides of the drawers now had gave Sofia such a sense of nostalgia.


    Jing Jing slightly laughed at her comment. Indeed, the drawer was full of medicine. It was exactly what Sofia had described - a small pharmacy!


    "It''s because my parents kept reminding me to bring medicine when I was young. So, I have them as a habit. Let''s go inside so you can take that medicine," Jing Jing responded and the two of them stepped out of the car.


    Minutes passed and Jing Jing continued to walk towards the entrance of the caf¨¦ but, Sofia made a pause of her steps and take a look at the vacant lot. There was a plastered sign written in a piece of broken plywood that indicated the lot was for sale.


    It was within the high way, but this location was almost deserted. There was only a caf¨¦ in the middle side of the road and then its mostly old trees before the residential houses. Sofia gave a meaningful look to the area before she fasten her pace to catch up with Jing Jing.


    The front desk was vacant when they went inside the caf¨¦.


    "Huh? No employees?" Jing Jing commented and looked around. Strangely, the door was opened already to invite customers to come in but  other than them, no one was actually inside!


    However, when they approached nearer the counter, they saw a female staff sitting down on the floor, almost as if hiding in her secret base. She was leaning on her desk for the support of her back and with just one look at how she held her phone, Sofia and Jing Jing could tell that the female staff was busy... busy playing!


    Despite them entering the caf¨¦ and standing in front of the desk, the female staff was still immersed with her phone and did not even notice them.


    Sofia did not say and only took out the medicine in her pocket.


    "Ehem!" Jing Jing took the initiative to make their presence known to the ''busy'' female staff.


    She cleared her throat and then faked some coughing sounds. This startled the female staff and looked at their directions, swiftly placing her phone in the cabinets. It was a subtle move almost as if she was an expert in hiding what she was doing.


    But there was a shocked expression that was evident on her face. However, after a few seconds of looking at the faces of her new customers, this female staff''s expression shifted from shock to surprise and excitement while staring at Sofia''s face.


    "Oh my gosh! OMG!!! You are that squad leader of Chronos squad! CEO UNRIVALED user! AHHH! I''ve seen your group play the district Esports tournament! Good Game!!!" the female staff squealed loudly.


    "Ahh..." Jing Jing pursed her lips.


    Based on appearance, this female staff was almost the same age as Jing Jing or perhaps a year younger. But she was actually jumping in her feet full of enthusiasm after she recognized who was standing in front of her.


    Such a reaction made Jing Jing raise a single eyebrow and look at the staff with amusement.


    "Hello, yes, that''s me," Sofia gave the female staff a friendly smile and gave confirmation of her identity.


    "CEO UNRIVALED, can we have a picture together?! Are the other squad members of Chronos will be here? OMG!!!" the female staff asked and grabbed her phone from the side and waved it to Sofia.


    However, her device was still displaying the battlefield on her screen when she looked at it.


    Alas, when the customers arrived, she just hastily threw her phone to avoid being caught playing while on duty. Now she felt a little bit conflicted that the match was not yet finished and the screen displayed her AFK warning!


    "AH! hehe, well...." the female staff made an awkward laugh after noticing that Sofia was also observing her phone screen. She then pressed the home button of the phone and completely abandon the game. Well, she had already abandoned the match after hearing Jing Jing''s coughing sound anyway.


    Sofia did not say anything and just watch the female staff maneuver the screen of her phone until she opened her front camera.


    "OMG! I never imagined that I will have this opportunity to take a picture with you! I am your fan!" she continued as if the battlefield on her screen was never shown to Sofia. Then, she tilted her phone to take a good angle of Sofia for their picture.


    When their faces appeared on the screen, Sofia looked at the camera with a nice curve on her lips.


    On the other hand, the female staff grinned widely. Then, she clicked the middle button on her screen and finally took their picture. Sofia''s smile was a combination of friendly and formal. While the female staff''s smile displayed her full-frontal teeth... like that of a happy kid.


    "Thank you for your support to our group," Sofia stated in a sincere tone.


    "I am surely your number one supporter! By the way, where are the other squad members of your Chronos squad?" The female staff exclaimed and was clapping her hands. She looked at the entrance door with an expectant eyes.


    "The other members are not with me. They have classes to attend today. I am with sister Jing," Sofia answered and gestured at Jing Jing. The female staff quickly waved a hand at Jing Jing.


    Jing Jing could not help but take a step back and look at the two. She just stared at them and did not join in the brief picture taking. While watching them, she mentally commented, ''One was surely an adult but act like a child who had seen her favorite celebrity. The other is a teen, yet, it was standing with poise and formality. AHHH...''


    Her thoughts trailed to an end when she heard Sofia speak to the female staff once more. This time, there was a tone of seriousness in Sofia''s tone....

 Chapter 237 - Career Focus (2)

    "In terms of gaming and in terms of career..." Sofia paused and arranged her words so it would not sound as though she was criticizing the female staff. She stared the the lady in front of her with full of sincerity and in her eyes. Then, she continued to speak, "Hmmn... you can make gaming as an official career. Just like me and my friends. There are a lot of ways to earn in gaming. Some gamers sell equipment in RPG games. Others like us, joins tournaments and sponsored matches. Then, you can also have your channel and stream your gameplays... or there are also pilot gamers who are paid to enhance gaming character attributes and stuffs. But if you already have a career, it is not good if you are distracted by gaming while working."


    Whilst Jing Jing had known Sofia''s character, she did not expect the teen to speak and reprimand the female staff about work ethics. First, the female staff had announced to be her number one fan. She even asked for a picture with her.


    But since Sofia had lectured the female staff about her working attitude, the fan might probably change her mind and hate Sofia instead. Not just this, the one lecturing was younger than her. In any case, seniority must also be observed, right?


    It did not sounded like a criticism, but the message of Sofia''s words came out and clearly meant that the female staff''s action was indeed inappropriate. And Sofia even listed the options for her on how she would make gaming as career!


    "What I mean is that... it''s not good to be distracted at work. I personally love to play, so I kept it as my focus. If you love to play, you would actually enjoy more if you focus in gaming. But, if you love your job, customers might complain to your boss if they saw you playing while on duty. And your job would be compromised," Sofia added after not hearing any response from the female staff.


    Jing Jing shifted her right foot uncomfortably while listening to Sofia. She then took a big gulp and peeked at the female staff to see her expression.


    However, after Sofia''s side comment about her working attitude, she only waved a hand and did not seem to take any offense from it.


    The female staff continued to smile and sheepishly replied, "You are so right! Ah, I am so ashamed by my actions. What I did was wrong. Actually, if there is an opportunity, maybe next year, I will also join the pro scene. I''m just playing the game because there is no customer yet. Sorry."


    "Phew!" Jing Jing breathed in relief upon hearing the female staff admitted that she was wrong.


    Sofia nodded at the female staff and turned her head to look in Jing Jing''s direction.


    "What do you want to have, sister Jing?" she asked after noticing that her companion was actually tensed.


    Jing Jing lifted her eyes and quickly scan on the menu that was on the wall behind the female staff. After a few seconds of reading the lists, she noticed a side note: Only Lemonade is Available.


    "Ehem, just lemonade?" she asked to confirm the note.


    "Sorry for this. Our supplies have not yet arrived. It will be here soon. Right now, we only have lemonade for our beverages," the female staff answered in a respectful tone. But she was still giving side glances at Sofia with admiration.


    "Okay," Jing Jing nodded and mumbled her orders, "Hmmn... let me have an extra-large ice lemonade and wrap me a chicken sandwich please."


    The female staff took note of her order and waited for Sofia to speak.


    "I''ll have a small lemonade. Thank you!" Sofia quickly told the female staff.


    "AH! Miss Sofia... Aren''t you thirsty? Why...?---" Jing Jing wanted to ask why did Sofia only order a small lemonade. But she stopped at the middle thinking that it may sound inappropriate to ask such preference. After all, this is her employer!


    The female staff turned on the other side and started preparing their orders. Sofia smiled at Jing Jing and mumbled, "It''s fine. I am okay with small lemonade."


    Since there was no line going to the front desk, their orders were served immediately. They paid the amount tendered and strode at the table near the exit area.


    "Miss Sofia, you actually scolded the staff! It almost gave me a heart attack! I thought the staff would retaliate!" Jing Jing secretly whispered with an anxious tone. Her hand was carrying a tray that contained her extra-large lemonade and chicken sandwich.


    "I did not scold anyone. Sister Jing, why do you say I was scolding her?" Sofia inquired looking bewildered.


    "Well, you did scolded her! When you told her that it''s not good to be distracted! Poor girl, she even said that she is your number one fan..." Jing Jing immediately answered.


    "Ahh... no, its not like that," Sofia defended. "It''s because she might get fired if her boss would see her playing. I am just concerned with her job. Since she is our fan. It''s my responsibility to remind her."


    "Ohh... I see... responsibility... I see, I''ll contact boss Wang," Jing Jing stated before she took her seat. She then unlocked her phone and scanned the contacts and searched for the particular number. Once she saw the contact details of Boss Wang, she swiftly pressed the call button and the screen of her phone instantly displayed the progress of the attempt to make a call.


    The two of them sat down on the opposite seating and drank their lemonade. Sofia also took the medicine and easily swallowed the tablet easily.


    "Sister Jing, just give boss Wang a hint and message him the other details," Sofia suddenly said in a low tone that only Jing Jing could hear.


    There was another group of five customers that had entered the caf¨¦ and she was afraid that they might overhear the news from Jing Jing.


    "Yeah, it''s better not to talk here. Miss Sofia, I know what to do! Leave it to me," Jing Jing agreed while listening to the ringing sound of her device. Sofia nodded and looked at the newcomers as they approached the female staff.


    The wedding of Brent and Grace must be formally announced to the public. And it must be done professionally.


    Sofia and Jing Jing knew that this formal announcement was necessary to make so that they would be able to control and neutralize the public opinion towards the ceremony. Or at least, they would be able to influence the public to have positive views on it for the benefit of their clients.


    Obviously, this was not just a wedding. It was a sensitive topic for the bride and groom have their differences in social status. They may be wealthy families but one family had been low-key of their riches while the other family is a public servant.


    If other people would know it before the formal announcement, they might leaked the news and give nasty opinions against Grace or her family for they are engaged in politics.


    If such a case would really happened, then it would not do good for both sides: Sofia''s business or her clients.


    Hence, they needed to avoid bad impact and handle the formality of the announcement using professional means. It was tricky and they were like treading in a fragile bridge. This fragile bridge, would lead them to success. And if they are not careful with their steps, it may shattered and would make them fall.


    In line of this publicity, there was other image apart from the two big families that was important to Sofia. And that is the image of her Chronos company. It would be the first official announcement of their business to the corporate world.. They must not make any mistake.

 Chapter 238 - Dealing With Boss Wangs Stubborn Attitude (1)

    "Ohh... T-this... Boss Wang... he actually canceled my call!?" Jing Jing stared at her screen with disbelief in her tone. Her eyes blinked a few times and a frown creased on her forehead.


    Sofia looked surprised too. "He may have accidentally pressed the reject button on his screen? What do you think, sister Jing?" she supplied.


    "I doubt that. But let me try and contact his number again. Maybe he did accidentally reject my call," Jing Jing agreed. Then, out of nowhere, a realization suddenly occurred to her. She exhaled and clenched her fingers that were holding her phone.


    "Damn! If I know better, I think Boss Wang was still probably bitter with my remarks and warning about the scam investments last time?! Ha! This old boss is sometimes unreasonable! Mixing business and personal issues!" she added and attempted to ring the contact number for the second time.


    Sofia finished her lemonade and put the empty cup on the table. She did remember about this investment that Jing Jing was talking about. It was also the reason why Jing Jing was fired from her previous job.


    "Even if boss Wang is upset and does not want to speak to you, he is still obliged to open his line of communication with us. His company is the private press of the Chronos squad. He is bounded by a contract with us." Sofia emphasized.


    "Right... But sometimes this old boss is too stubborn. Miss Sofia, his character is actually hard to deal with," Jing Jing said and then waited for her call to be answered. However, just like the first attempt, the man declined her second attempt. Now there was no chance of the man to have accidentally clicked the reject button on his screen. It was clear that he really did not want to speak to Jing Jing!


    "Really unbelievable!" Jing Jing sighed and took a sip of her lemonade to cool off her temper.


    "If we cannot reach him using his number, then, let''s pay him a visit to his office. There is still enough time to go there," Sofia started glancing at the wall where a vintage wall clock was conspicuously placed.


    The wall clock that was hung in the caf¨¦ had pointed towards 3:15 PM. And she would go to her class at 4:00 PM. She still have a spare of 45 minutes which was a lot of time in Sofia''s mind.


    "I don''t know... the last time I spent to the press company, all my colleagues were angry at me too. They really think I was slandering when I told them that the investments that they were doing were a scam. I''ve really enraged them," Jing Jing bitterly reported her experience on her last day at work in the press company. She had even vividly remembered the faces of her angry colleagues.


    "They are angry at you right now because they have high hopes with the investment plans. And since you told them that it was a scam... it was indeed infuriating. But, it is a fact that it was a scam investment and soon, it would destroy really them. Good thing you have distanced yourself as early as now, sister Jing," Sofia started. ''Just wait until the payout of this investment and they would learn a great lesson,'' she mentally added.


    "I don''t know. Miss Sofia, when you warn me that it was a scam, I was convinced. But, when I told my colleague about it, I have not convinced persuaded them to stop putting in their money. Instead, they were furious that I speak ill of the investment," Jing Jing loudly exhaled.


    "It''s not your fault, sister Jing. Once the promoter of that investment runs away with their investment money, their anger would be directed towards their own selves for trusting too much," Sofia said and grabbed her empty cup.


    "You are right, Miss Sofia. They would learn their lesson for not listening to my warning," Jing Jing nodded her head in agreement.


    "Yes. It would be an expensive lesson that they must pay with their hard earned money and experience it personally. Such an investment scheme was too good to be real, too good to be true," Sofia said and stood from her seat. Since they were seated near the exit door, she easily threw her empty cup in the recycle bin that was located on the corner.


    "Some people like me could learn from the experiences of others. I know you are right about warning me of that scam, Miss Sofia. But other people would still want to experience the same situation in order to learn the lesson," Jing Jing commented. She also finished the last bite of her chicken sandwich and took the cup of her lemonade. Then, they exited in the caf¨¦ quietly.


    Meanwhile, the female staff was still bragging about meeting Sofia and having a picture with her. She had told the group of customers that had entered and approached her desk. But when she pointed at the table where Sofia left, it was already empty.


    "I''m telling you, they were the customers that sat there! I really met CEO UNRIVALED user!" the female staff insisted with full of confidence in her voice.


    "AHH... you are just bluffing us to get someone to buy in this caf¨¦! That''s shameless!" one of the customers complained.


    "No! Why would I bluff at you guys? Look at this picture!" the female staff stated and showed them the picture of Sofia and her together.


    "Ohh... it is really CEO UNRIVALED!"


    "Wow! You are indeed lucky to meet her in person! Why did you not point it earlier where she was still sitting on there! We could have a picture with her too!" another customer commented.


    "Well, you have no luck. She was with Ms. Jing Jing but, I did not notice that they already left. Maybe the group of you had scared them away!" the female staff playfully said and kept the phone back to her side.


    "We are still customers right now! How can you be rude to us!"


    "My my my, what customers? Where are your orders? Come, tell me your orders so that I can consider you as customers. Otherwise, you and you and all of you..." the female staff said and pointed at the group members one by one. She made a pause and gritted her teeth. " You are all gossipers here if you don''t give your orders!"


    "HAHAHA... so what if we are gossipers? We came here to meet CEO UNRIVALED. If we have met her, then we would definitely order on your menu!" one of them reasoned out.


    "Nevermind. Let''s just pre-order the ticket to the regional Esports tournament. Then, we can definitely meet a lot of pro players!"


    "Yeah, I have pre-ordered my ticket already. Some fans also urged the organizers of the tournament to make the participants have a showdown match. I hope it will happen! If you have not voted for a showdown special, go to the website. There is an ongoing voting poll for that event!"


    "Ahh... but the list of participants for the regional Esports tournament had always been public on the game website. And every time I looked at the list, I did not see the Chronos squad on it! What if they won''t join?"


    "If they don''t join the regional tournament, then, it''s actually understandable. Those gamers are students. And studies for exams in March must be their priorities. Their parents must surely be against them playing at such an important time!"


    "That would be so sad! I want to see them play the ban mode in the official tournament. It would be interesting gameplay if they join!"


    While the group started to make their speculations among themselves, the expression of the female staff who were listening to them had become darker and darker.


    "They will participate for sure!" the female staff announced in a loud voice.


    "Ohh... oh... did CEO UNRIVALLED tell you about their participation?" one of the group quickly questioned.


    "No. I just know that they will join. Now, if you won''t order don''t loiter in here!" she snarled at them with an intimidating look.


    "Aiiyyaa, how can you get a customer if you are like this," another customer grumbled before the group started to exit the caf¨¦.


    The female staff glared at the retreating figures until they vanished from her sight.


    "Based on their squad leader''s attitude, I''m sure they would participate and join the tournament! I''m certain that they will participate! If you don''t believe me then why not make a bet?" she uttered even though no other person can hear her anymore. Not long after, she posted her picture with Sofia in her social media account and sat below the counter where Sofia had first seen her.


    ''My idol says not to play while on duty. I will follow her advise. So, I can only check what''s trending now and play game after my shift.'' she reasoned in her mind while taking comfort in her secret base.


    If Sofia could hear her thoughts, she would definitely lecture this female staff again and put emphasis on her point about avoiding being distracted while working!

 Chapter 239 - Far Considerations (1)

    "How long is here and going to boss Wang''s office, sister Jing? I need to be in school at 4 PM," Sofia queried and told Jing Jing her next schedule.


    "Hmmn, I almost forgot about your class. Is your headache gone?" Jing Jing asked back.


    "Yes, I feel better now. The pain had finally left. Thank you for asking!" Sofia smiled then waited for Jing Jing to respond to her first inquiry. But, in her mind, if she would come late in her first subject, it would not really be much of a problem. Students in night class usually arrived late.


    They hit the road again, going in another direction. Few cars bypassed their speed but Jing Jing did not seem to be in a hurry.


    "Don''t worry, I know a shortcut. We will take a right turn on the second corner," Jing Jing said and pointed to the location. Sofia followed and saw that there were luxurious cars that had turned in the direction already.


    "There is an exclusive subdivision in there but I have an access card to their private road. We can take their road. It will lead us to the district''s subway that would lead us to the central. We will arrive at our destination in less than 15 minutes," Jing Jing explained calmly. She smiled and give a glance at Sofia before she give her an assurance, "You won''t be late in your class."


    Sofia smiled back and did not speak anymore. She was not familiar with the streets in their district and could only rely on Jing Jing.


    "Here we are," Jing Jing notified and Sofia saw that there was a boom gate blocking the road ahead of them.


    Just like what Jing Jing conveyed, they did make a right turn towards the corner and stopped just a few meters away from the boom gate. On the side, there was a fancy gate for pedestrians too.


    A guard sauntered towards the driver''s side and Jing Jing rolled down her window.


    "Good afternoon, ma''am! AH! Miss Jing Jing, it''s you! Good afternoon!" the guard of the gate said. He switched from his initial formal tone to a more friendly voice once he realized that it was Jing Jing in the car.


    "This place is Maxwell''s subdivision. He rent the houses here. He is Rica''s boyfriend. The two friends I introduced to you before," Jing Jing gave Sofia a quick background of the private place before turning her attention to the guard of the gate. "Chief, I am heading to the press company and is planning to be using this way."


    "Yes, I remember Maxwell and Rica," Sofia softly replied and observed the infrastructures ahead of them. The design was indeed within the elite standards.


    The guard of the gate gave Jing Jing a thumbs up without even asking for her access card. She had been using this private road countless times and the guards had remembered her face easily.


    After the quick signal, the man ran back towards his post and the boom gate that blocked the road was rolled up, allowing their vehicle to proceed with its entry.


    Jing Jing did not waste time and drove off.


    "Your friend Maxwell... are you close, sister Jing?" Sofia suddenly inquired. Her curiosity about Jing Jing''s relationship with the man suddenly peeked high.


    "Maxwell? Not that close. I am more close to Rica. But Maxwell and I are cool! That man is soo humble and won''t complain about all my requests. If I ask him a favor, he always does it. So, I approved him to be with my friend Rica. He is a good guy!" Jing Jing casually replied.


    "Ohh... Maxwell... did he not show any interest with you in terms of a romantic relationship, sister Jing?" Sofia probed further.


    "He would not dare have a romantic interest towards me! I have a boyfriend at that time. That scum of an ex! Besides, Rica has a huge crush on him," Jing Jing recounted. Then, she contemplated a bit before she asked, "Miss Sofia, why do you ask about me and Maxwell?"


    "There is no reason, sister Jing. I am just curious about relationships," Sofia replied.


    "Ohh... speaking of relationship, how are you and Stephen? Are you together officially now? I think Claire and Clark are official," Jing Jing excitedly made a comment about the couples.


    "Claire and Clark... Me and Stephen... it''s hard to be certain if our relationship would last. It would be challenging."


    Sofia''s response suddenly made Jing Jing flustered in confusion. "W-what? Pardon me, Miss Sofia but... I have never imagined that I would hear you say cynical words. But now, you actually have negative thoughts about your relationship!?"


    "Ohh... well," Sofia said but soon stopped mid-way.


    When Jing Jing sensed that the young lady was hesitating to speak, she could not help but make another comment. "You know, I see your confidence in playing games. I admire your confidence when speaking about business. But, for your relationship... you should have confidence about it too! Why are you doubting?"


    Sofia rubbed her hand. The gaming and business fields are her expertise. So, her confidence was never questionable. But in terms of relationship, she had her own considerations.


    "Sister Jing, Stephen is from a wealthy family. I am only from the mountains of this district, raised by my grandparents. I have no mother and father anymore. So, it would really be challenging for us. The same situation is with Clark and Claire. Clark has a respected social status and good family background. Claire is only average... maybe, this year, our relationship would be good. But once the parents interfere, it would eventually become challenging."


    "Your consideration has gone this far?" Jing Jing was completely shocked to hear Sofia''s response. In a sense, she could not find a way to refute what the young lady had also said. She just spoke of the reality.


    "Whether it is gaming, business, relationship, I''ve always made consideration and calculate the situation properly, sister Jing. This way, I am prepared for the outcome," Sofia calmly answered.


    "I don''t know what to say. Miss Sofia, you amazed me every time you give explanation," Jing Jing admitted with a sigh. She was really speechless and lost in words. When she was in a relationship, she had never thought of these things. She did not even bother to know her ex''s family background!


    ''No wonder, the outcome of my last relationship was very ugly! I should have made my considerations at that time!'' Jing Jing secretly thought while looking at Sofia using her peripheral view.

 Chapter 240 - [Bonus ] Formal Discussion About Publicity (1)

    The remaining minutes of their car ride were in complete silence. The place was empty when they stepped into the lobby building of the press company. Sofia looked around and examined the interior design of the company.


    She then took a quick look at the time on her phone and saw that they just spent eleven minutes on the road.


    It was earlier than their expected time of arrival. This also means that she could chat longer with boss Wang if necessary.


    "The subway is the quickest path to go here," Jing Jing told Sofia when she noticed the young lady was looking at her phone.


    "We were quick indeed! Thank you, sister Jing!" Sofia exclaimed and returned her phone inside her bag.


    "What are you doing here, Jing Jing? Didn''t boss Wang fire you already?" one of the company staff suddenly asked as they walked near the entrance and were heading to the elevator.


    "I am not here for my employment," Jing Jing responded with no emotions shown on her face. She did not even glance at the staff and just continued moving.


    "The hostility is indeed intense. Why are they so angry? Even if I expected them to react madly, I did not expect to be this way!" Sofia commented. The anger of the staff to Jing Jing was actually evident in her face.


    "Yeah, all of the workers here are now hostile to me. To think that we were eating on the same table for so many years. They have really cut our bonds as friends! Don''t be surprised of the other''s reactions later," Jing Jing smiled bitterly. She pressed the button of the elevator and the door instantly opened. After entering, she pressed the number 3 again and the elevator closed with only the two of them inside.


    "So, this is the rank 1 press company of district 7 looked like," Sofia commented.


    "The employees are mostly on the field. So, there are only a few that are in the company," Jing Jing explained. Sofia nodded her head and stared at her reflection in the elevator. She casually combed her hair using her hand and tucked them behind her ears.


    The elevator quickly stopped on the third floor and the door opened. They exited and walked in the left direction.


    "Miss Sofia, come this way to the office of boss Wang. He should be there today," Jing Jing spoke.


    Out of a sudden, a loud thump of foot sounded from behind.


    "YOU! You jinx my profit! Get out!" the voice of boss Wang suddenly demanded when they entered his office. His index finger was pointing at Jing Jing and his eyes were glaring at her in anger.


    "Jinx my profit? AHH..." Sofia mumbled in understanding. She had recognized that the man was actually those types of people who believed that earning profits would be affected by negative opinions. Whilst it was true that negative image had a bad impact on the business. But, it was not applicable in all situations.


    For instance, Jing Jing tells him that the investment that he was involved is a scam. Sofia realized that if the investment would really become a failure, boss Wang would not blame anyone other than Jing Jing.


    This kind of people, she had met many of them in her past life. Those people who could only blame others even though they were responsible for their failures.


    "Boss Wang, good afternoon!" Sofia greeted the man and her expression looked professional.


    "GET OUT!" Boss Wang yelled at Jing Jing and completely ignored Sofia.


    Jing Jing only looked at the man without blinking her eyes. She was analyzing their situation and was also waiting for Sofia''s order.


    "No one is getting out. Sister Jing is my employee now. And it was me who told her that the investment you have joined was a big scam," Sofia asserted.


    Hearing her words, boss Wang finally looked at her. But unlike his reaction towards Jing Jing, he seemed to be hesitant about what to do. He could speak with no regard for anything to Jing Jing since he had known her and she was once his employee. But in front of Sofia, the young lady is not his employee. Their connection must be taken with utmost care.


    "AHHH..." boss Wang spoke with a defeated expression on his face. He then gestured for Sofia to take a sit on the empty chair. "Have a seat, young lady! It is my honor to have you visit my company!"


    "We tried to contact you through your phone, but you have rejected our call. We have no choice but to come here. Boss Wang, apologies for not giving any prior notice of our plans," Sofia stated but did not take a sit.


    "AHH... I don''t one to speak with the certain someone. Please have a seat!" Boss Wang spoke and offered Sofia the chair.


    Yet, Sofia shook her head and declined. "No need, boss Wang. Our stay won''t be long to avoid disturbing your working time. I came here to give you the greatest scope you could ever have!" Sofia started.


    "Greatest scope. That sounds intriguing! What is it?" Boss Wang asked. He leaned his back on his chair and clasped both of his hands while looking at Sofia intently. He was trying to observe Sofia''s expression if she was lying at him or not.


    "Boss Wang, what do you think about the mayor''s family and the Lee family? Which family is more wealthy and powerful in our district?" Sofia questioned.


    "Hmm... Not that there is bad news but as far as I am concerned, we cannot publish a piece of news against those families. Otherwise, it would be the end of my business!" Boss Wang answered.


    "Right. They are families that people and business owners would not dare offend," Sofia nodded.


    "So... about the great scope you said... did the two families have a conflict? Young lady, it may be a piece of interesting news, but, if they are really in conflict, we should not meddle it and publicize those kinds of stuff," Boss Wang said.


    "Contrary!" Sofia clapped her hand and smiled. Then, she continued, "Not a conflict but a union. Boss Wang, on Saturday this week, the young master of the Lee family and the daughter of the mayor will have their wedding ceremony!" Sofia revealed.


    "Huh?" Boss Wang suddenly froze, as if his mind was not able to process the information that Sofia had shared with him. After several seconds, he forced himself to say, "Could you repeat what you just told me, young lady? I think, there is a problem with my ears!"

 Chapter 241 - Formal Discussion About Publicity (2)

    "It is exactly what you have heard, boss Wang. The young master of the Lee family and the mayor''s family will unite in marriage. We are here to discuss if you are interested in this scope. Give formal publicity of the details of their wedding ceremony?" Sofia questioned.


    "YES! Let me handle the publicity! How much should I pay for this scope?" Boss Wang confirmed. He did not even forget to ask Sofia for the payment of giving him the details.


    "This news is very important. Boss Wang, other than the wedding, there are details that I''d like to highlight too. Sister Jing Jing will give you the information later and you can finalize the news together with your team before announcing it to the public," Sofia stated.


    "I don''t like to speak to her. She is giving bad luck to my profit!" Boss Wang directly refused and shook his head several times.


    "Fine. We can also look for other press companies outside the district to seek their interest," Sofia muttered.


    "NO. NO. NO." Boss Wang uttered. And before Sofia could move her feet, he swiftly jumped out from his seat and dashed forward right towards the door of his office. He then extended his hand to block them from leaving. "Don''t find other press. It should be me that is more fitting to announce this news in public. Besides, we have a connection and working relationship already. I am your private press... Just tell me the details directly."


    "Ahh... Boss Wang, it is good that you have recognized our connection. But, sister Jing is more expert in public news than me. So, she could help you tailor the information into the most favorable statement to the public so we could gain great benefits from it," Sofia responded calmly.


    "Fine! Jing Jing, let''s discuss the publicity," Boss Wang sighed, he shrugged his shoulder and slowly pulled his arms down. Then, he dragged his feet back towards his seat.


    Sofia and Jing Jing watched him push himself to walk as if he was a child that was forced to do something by his parents and he had no choice but obey.


    "I could only pray that you don''t rub bad luck to me," Boss Wang sulked before taking his seat.


    "..."


    "..."


    Jing Jing only raised an eyebrow and did not bother to argue with her former boss. As for Sofia, she had decided that it would be best if she would not indulge with the man''s attitude.


    "Boss Wang, I have to go to school first to attend my classes today. When are you available so sis Jing Jing and you could discuss the details properly?" Sofia inquired after a moment of silence between them.


    "I can go back later," Jing Jing offered.


    "You stay at the entrance lobby and don''t come to my office. I will come to you once you come back," Boss Wang coldly said.


    "Ahh... whatever is more comfortable for both of you," Sofia finally said. The man was really serious about his anger towards Jing Jing. Since it was a matter of income and luck, there was no way for her to pacify him.


    ~


    "Miss Sofia, my idea about the publicity, I wonder if you want to hear them?" Jing Jing spoke while driving the young lady to her school.


    "To be honest, I am confident that your idea will do best, sister Jing. There is no need for you to inform me. But, if you have uncertainties, let me hear it," Sofia replied.


    "So, there is the wedding ceremony. Next, the cost of the venue. Then, the Chronos company," Jing Jing quickly said. Her attention remained on the road and their speed did not slow down.


    "The wedding ceremony, put emphasis on the family of the mayor. This announcement should be done in a subtle way. I have an idea too. The first announcement should be about lady Grace. Use an image of her and put a headline like "Mystery groom of our mayor''s daughter." In this way, Brent''s identity won''t overshadow the news."


    "I''ll take note of that, Miss Sofia," Jing Jing responded. "You have a point. If we reveal the young master of the Lee family directly, perhaps, the bride and her family would be overlooked by the audience."


    "Yes. Or the bride will be bashed and accused of using the Lee family. We have to be sure that this will not happen. Then, the audience will normally focus on the wealthiest Lee family because they had been very private about their family affairs. So, we have to give lady Grace the first highlight," Sofia explained.


    "That''s true. I will make sure to do that," Jing Jing confirmed and was secretly amazed by Sofia''s explanation. It seems like this young teen was also knowledgeable on how to control the interest of the public!


    "The next would naturally be about the identity of our groom. With the groom''s revelation, you must also emphasize the price of our venue. In this way, the people would definitely be moved by how much young master Brent is willing to spend his wealth just to give a perfect wedding for his bride. At the same time, we would stir the curiosity of the public about our business by highlighting the cost of our venue and the idea of the perfect wedding," Sofia followed through her ideas.


    "Wow. Okay, I''ll follow that too!" Jing Jing nodded her head with a full of enthusiasm in her expression.


    "The third topic should revolve around the candidacy of the mayor. But, we must be careful on this so it would not be obvious that the announcement was a campaign," Sofia''s eyes moved to the left and she tilted her head. She was in deep thought and tried to make considerations of the third topic. Her mind was weighing all the pros and cons of the possible statement that they would be releasing.


    "Politics is really hard to deal. But, if I may suggest, Miss Sofia, we can use the guests of the wedding as leverage to promote the mayor. Since this wedding is open to the public, the statement should highlight how they are willing to share this important event to all the constituents? No discrimination and everybody is welcome to join?" Jing Jing suggested when Sofia paused for a minute.


    "Yes! That''s brilliant, sister Jing!" Sofia agreed. "It could be like this. But, if boss Wang had his ideas too, just pick what is more appropriate and had a good and positive impact. I trust you on this matter, sister Jing! When it comes to media, it is really tricky. I am not so great with conducting business on this field.. I only know the basic."

 Chapter 249 - The Wristwatch Sofia Acquired

    "Don''t worry... all boarders in this building are considerate. By the way, my name is Sofia. If it does not bother you, we can exchange names. But if you wished to keep your identity secret, it''s fine by me," Sofia said in a friendly tone.


    "How rude of me. Sis, you can call me Heiz. My baby, I named her Hazel Ash," she prompted.


    "Heiz... Hmm. Sis, you have a unique name," Sofia commented. "This is my unit. Come in!"


    After the door was pushed open, Heiz looked around and felt relaxed with the ambiance of Sofia''s place.


    ~~


    On the same night, at Ching''s mega-mansion in district 4, two servants kept knocking on Stephen''s room.


    "Young master, please come out and join the dinner table. Please, young master, open the door... or your parents will scold us for not convincing you to join them," one of the servants spoke with urgency.


    Stephen was just gazing at the lonely sky and ignored the servants outside his room. The rain had started drizzling and flashes of lightning illuminated the dark clouds.


    ''Tonight is the best time to get out of here. With the lightning and rain, everyone would probably rest early,'' Stephen thought.


    Despite his decision of ignoring the two servants, their knocking sound did not stop even though a few minutes had passed. Stephen groaned and opened the door.


    "Tell them not to bother. I am not in the mood to have my dinner," Stephen ordered while the two servants respectfully bowed their heads.


    "Young master, Mr. & Mrs. Silveri is here. You have to join the dinner table. Your parents even flew back from overseas just to show respect to them," the other servant explained.


    ''Aunt and uncle are here?'' Stephen asked himself. To be precise, Stephen''s father and Mrs. Silveri were half-siblings of the same father but different mothers. Still, because the now called Mrs. Silveri was capable of joining a more wealthy family, the Chings formed a good relationship with her.


    "Young master, the madam has told me to tell you that you must wear presentable clothes before you join them," one servant reminded him.


    "No need," Stephen frowned and closed the door. He was wearing an oversized white V-neck shirt and black shorts. In his opinion, his appearance looked presentable already.


    However, when he arrived at their expansive dining area, he realized what the servants meant when they mentioned presentable clothes. His aunt and uncle as well as his parents were all wearing a stylish three-piece suit. They were all wearing a formal attire!


    "Good evening, uncle and aunt! Hope you enjoy the food," Stephen greeted the two without giving his parents a single glance. He then continued to approach the vacant chair and sat properly.


    "Ohh... your son Stephen has really grown tall! What a great resemblance of the both of you!" Mrs. Silveri said to her brother.


    "Indeed," Mr. Ching agreed with no sign of emotion on his tone. He was scooping a soup into his bowl. "Where are we?" he asked Mr. Silveri after taking a sip of the soup.


    "Anyway, as I was saying, it was really our fault for we have disowned her," Mr. Silveri sounded gloomy. He only gave Stephen a forced smile when the young man took his seat.


    "Ahhh... She had brought shame and disgrace to our Silveri family! Having a child at such young age. TSK!!! She was lucky that I only let her leave our house!" Mrs. Silveri interjected with raw anger on her face.


    Stephen had just held the glass of water. But the anger in his aunt''s voice made him stop his tracks. And instead of drinking, he returned the glass back to the table and leaned his back to the chair.


    ''Why am I called to join here when I don''t even know what they are talking about!'' he mentally complained.


    He had a bad feeling. These old people around him seemed to be talking about their daughter that caused disgraced their family. This was a serious matter indeed.  But, he had never got a chance to meet any of his uncle''s children for he also ran away during his first-year high school. By their standard, he was also a disgrace himself!


    "Calm down. After all, we have agreed to forget about her existence. Hmmmn, when the private lawyer of my late mom talked to us this morning, he explained about the procedure of my mom''s assets," Mr. Silveri continued.


    "Ohh... so, the late madam Silveri''s assets has been computed? In this case, I must congratulate the two of you," Stephen''s mother smiled towards Mrs. Silveri.


    "Not yet. The procedure of asset transfer is quite odd. According to my late mother-in-law''s lawyer, only the one who possesses the ''Devourer'' could use her assets. And it can only be used if he is mature and capable," Mrs. Silveri recounted.


    "I think you lost me with the possession. I''m confused. What is this devourer?" Stephen''s mother questioned.


    "It''s a stupid wristwatch that is older than my late mother-in-law. This thing is passed down to the young generation. What a weird tradition," Mrs. Silveri answered with a tone of mockery.


    "A watch! It''s my first time to hear that watch has actually a name!? Is this watch some sort of magical object like that in movies? Why do your family call it devourer? Can it devour all our problems in business?" Stephen''s business playfully pried.


    "Ahh... what are you talking about. This is not some fantasy movie. A watch is a watch. Simple," Stephen''s father spoke, and secretly glared at his wife. He was suddenly annoyed by how ridiculous his wife had thought about an object. ''What a superstitious woman!'' he mentally added.


    "My brother is right. It is just an object with no special power. The reason why it is called ''Devourer'' is that at the back of the watch, there is a special carving of a serpent eating its tail. It formed the horizontal figure-eight shape of a snake enveloping itself," Mrs. Silveri easily described the design of the watch.


    "Yes, it is exactly what my wife said. There is an exquisite Ouroboros symbol forming the infinity figure at the back of the watch. So, the watch had been named ''Devourer'' even before it was passed down to my late mother," Mr. Silveri affirmed.


    "I see, I see. So, my guess is that the ''Devourer'' is in the possession of your disowned daughter?" Stephen''s father inquired.


    "That''s right! My later mother-in-law gifted the watch to our unfilial daughter, Ash Heiz Silveri. This was given before she died. But, we have no idea about how important the watch was at that time. Without the watch, we will lose our right to the whole assets. And it will be my unfilial daughter who would be the rightful heir of it. So, we ask you to help us find Ash before she could take away all the assets," Mrs. Silveri confirmed.


    "Let me clarify if I still follow you. Sister-in-law, the money of the late madam Silveri can only be taken by someone who had possessed the ''devourer?" Stephen''s mother asked them.


    "Yes. you are still following clearly. Their lawyer said that they won''t be able to transfer the asset if we don''t have the watch.. We must take the watch from Ash!" Stephen''s father said.

 Chapter 250 - Clark & Joey Picking Up Stephen

    "Finding your daughter is probably more scandalous. You have disowned her. Why should you look for her when you can just order a similar watch and engrave the symbol on it?" Stephen''s father suggested. "Since you know the symbol, it''s easy to make a copy of it."


    His opinion seemed easier indeed and his wife clapped her hand. But, Mr. and Mrs. Silveri shook their heads.


    "If only that is applicable," Mrs. Silveri grunted. It was evident that she only cared for the watch and not her daughter.


    "Why not? I can have my assistant call the most famous store that sells watch and ask them to create a copy of that particular watch. How about it?" Mr. Ching offered right away. He raised his hand in the air. In an instant, a servant quickly approached his side, handing him a mobile phone.


    "Brother-in-law, the Devourer is considered an antique object that is only exclusive to the Silveri family. Even if you call the most genius or famous watchmaker, once he will see the design of the Devourer, he won''t dare make a copy of it. And my late mother''s lawyer won''t be deceived either. This is the reason why we came here. We want to ask for your help us to find Ash," Mr. Silveri calmly stated with a blank emotion on his face.


    "Then, I''ll just call notable private investigators and hire them. Wherever your daughter is right now, they would surely trace her whereabouts!" Mr. Ching stated and focused his attention on his phone. Soon after, he started calling his connections in the corporate world.


    "They say that we are living in such a small world. But, it''s been more than a month since we also hired investigators to find the whereabouts of Ash. They never gave us good news," Mrs. Silveri sighed.


    Stephen who was pretending to eat and was just listening in his seat suddenly stood. "I''m going back to my room," he said and quickly left the dining table before anyone could oppose him.


    His parents seemed to have taken much interest in the matter of hiring private investigators that they did not bother calling their son. They continued their discussion and plans as the young man made his way.


    Stephen was walking in haste with a satisfied smile on his lips. Some servants standing on the corner of the dining room saw the ominous expression in his face but they did not think too much of it. They only looked at one another and feign ignorance.


    The moment he arrived at his room, Stephen made sure to lock the door. As if he was not satisfied with the locks, he also dragged his wooden study table to block the entrance.


    After a few minutes, he quickly went to the side of the room and opened the window. Some droplets of rain that were carried by the wind brushed past him and entered his room.


    ''HAHAHA... This is good timing! This arrival of uncle and aunt tonight is the best decoy for me to escape!'' he excitedly thought, not minding the rain that had invaded his room.


    He easily slipped out of the window and managed to come out of their mega-mansion without anyone noticing him.


    In the darkness of the night, Stephen''s figure molded into the shadows as he casually sprinted towards the highway. He may have been born rich and raised with servants around, but in the past couple of years, he got used to running. His stamina was not weak but the rain did give him a rough time.


    Still, after several minutes of being soaked in the rain, he handled the difficulty and emerged on the side of the highway where most vehicles running along the road were all privately owned.


    Earlier that evening, he already texted Joey of his plans. This was after their video call. He told him to pick him up in the corner street going towards the HyperMalls.


    Stephen continued to run and cross intersections until he reached the location. There was indeed a car parked on the side of the street that looked familiar to him. It was the car owned by Clark.


    ''Perfect! They must have utilized the subway for them to come here this early!'' he almost whistled in joy thinking of his two friends. In this region, there were privately owned subways in each district that are interconnected with other districts for easy access. Only wealthy family and private organizations could use it. But, with Clark''s family background, using private subway was just a piece of cake for him.


    Stephen did not need to knock on the window of the car.


    Joey''s head suddenly appeared as he pushed the door open. "Hurry! It''s raining hard yet you are not using an umbrella! I thought you are rich. How could it be that you could not even bring such a simple tool to protect you from rain?!"


    "Tsk! I have no time to hold an umbrella. Bro, can''t you see? I''m escaping! It will only slow me down," Stephen rudely pushed Joey to the side for him to have a space to sit.


    "Ohh... you have a point. Umbrellas are useless," Joey mumbled while adjusting his sitting position.


    "Sorry for the trouble, Clark. I appreciate you helping me," Stephen told Clark who was on the front seat.


    "No troubles. We are one squad. It is natural to help you," Clark responded and looked at his reflection on the side mirror. "But, we did not anticipate you to come here in such a messy state. We did not bring spare clothes. We only brought snacks."


    The rain had completely drenched Stephen''s clothes. And Clark was worried that he would get sick. But, he could not also offer anything for him to change his wet clothes. Joey was also wearing a long sleeves and shorts. If only one of them was wearing a jacket, then, they could have lend it to Stephen. If only!


    "Ehem. Young master Clark, if your friend does not mind, he can use my coat. That is if he can tolerate wearing a servant''s cloth for a little while," the personal driver of Clark suddenly spoke. This old man was wearing a formal uniform with a name tag on the chest. A long coat was indeed draped on top of his uniform.


    "It''s better than my soak shirt. Uncle, sorry for the trouble but please lend me your coat. I am feeling chilly," Stephen quickly said. He had already felt the cold as the aircon inside the car was abnormally high despite the weather.


    "It''s my honor to help my young master''s friend," the driver said and quickly took off his coat then handed it to him.


    Stephen instantly discarded his shirt and wore the coat. "Thanks!"


    "My pleasure, young man! I will adjust the temperature of the car for you not to feel cold. Ehem... Now, where is our next destination?" the driver inquired.


    "Let''s go back home. James is staying with his squad members overnight and my parents are away on a business trip. We can continue to play at my home," Clark stated. The driver quickly turn on the engine of the car and started driving.


    "Nice!" Joey chirped. "Wait, I think Claire is still waiting for us in the lobby room!" he added and looked at his phone.


    Speaking of Claire, when the two of them were waiting for Stephen to show up at the location, they have decided to play. They managed to win two matches and were about to go on to the third match.


    But, Stephen arrived before they could enter the lobby for the third match... completely interrupting them.


    "She is still in the lobby," Clark said and quickly typed a message to explain the situation to Claire. After the message was sent, Claire also responded right away...


    "Claire said that we can continue to play later. She will need to charge her phone and check on Sofia," Clark reported after reading Claire''s reply.


    "Sofia is in her class right? Or did she have an early dismissal? Damn! Sometimes, I envy the night class students," Joey commented and his two friend could only shake their head and chuckled with him.

 Chapter 251 - Creating The Chronos E-Sports Club

    "I''ve brought my old phone with me. This also has the app of the game and is... ehh---?" Stephen paused while holding a black phone that was dripping from the rainwater that also drenched his clothes. His right thumb repeatedly pressed the power button on the side however, the screen of the device did not light up. "---I''ll just order online for a new one," he finished after realizing the condition of his phone.


    "Is it reliable to buy gadgets online? I''ve seen posts about scam products being sold," Joey pondered.


    "Not just products, there is also bogus seller. They will send products that are different. I''ve experienced it before. But, if it''s on the official store, it''s reliable," their driver joined the conversation.


    "I can make the purchase transaction online. Which brand do you want to have?" Clark spoke while scanning some various images of phone models.


    "Yeah, buy in the official store to avoid getting scammed. Help me, bro. Just check good specs. I''ll pay you once I have cash," Stephen expressed and put his old phone inside the pocket of the coat.


    "Choose the one that is suitable for gaming," Joey emphasized. "Ohh... Clark, that phone you are using is the latest released mobile device for gaming! I saw the ad for that model during my photo shoot session. Nice! Nice!" he added.


    "I''ve brought this online too. I pre-ordered one after the championship last time," Clark grinned.


    "Ahh... rich people can order whatever is the latest gadgets. How nice to be rich! I want to be rich too!" Joey playfully nudged Clark''s shoulder before he glanced at the phone models on the screen. He then look at Stephen and noticed that he was not moving. "Bro, it''s your phone. You should look here!"


    "Just get me whatever is nice," Stephen stated. He then closed his eyes as the vehicle entered the subway. "I''m so tired from running," he yawned.


    "Aiyooo, are you okay? Just sleep there. We will wake you up once we arrive," Joey gave him a sympathetic look before he joined Clark.


    "Hmn," Stephen hummed and leaned the side of his head on the window.


    ~~


    Back in Sofia''s apartment unit, Heiz settled on the sofa in the living room when she heard someone calling Sofia outside the door.


    "That''s Claire, Heiz. We are great friends and study in the same school," Sofia said. "I''ll get her before her noise wakes up Hazel."


    "Thanks! That is so considerate of you,"  Heiz gave her a weak smile and watched as Sofia walked towards the door.


    "Shhh... I have a guest. Her baby is sleeping," Sofia half-whispered the moment she realized that Claire was about to speak loudly.


    "Ahh--- oh-kay," Claire nodded her head before covering her mouth with her hands. "Sof who are your guests?" she carefully asked while entering the room.


    "This sister is named Heiz. Her baby is named Hazel," Sofia said while Claire waved her hand.


    "Hello, I''m Claire! Nice to meet you," Claire''s soft and friendly voice followed.


    "Nice to meet you too. I''m Heiz! Hope I did not cause too much trouble."


    Sofia shook her head and went straight to her kitchen area. She took a bottle of water and offered it to Heiz.


    "No trouble, no trouble," Claire chuckled. She was clearly confused about who the stranger was but she did not also dare question Sofia directly about their relationship. "Don''t mind me, Heiz. I always come here. My unit is just below."


    "Okay," Heiz politely responded before she checked the large plastic bag. Then, she took out some of the baby clothes and blankets.


    Claire observed at her briefly before she went next to Sofia.


    "I''m here to ask if you want to play, Sof? I''m still charging my phone and Clark and the others are having some secretive errands tonight. They say it''s boy''s night. But, they will probably be available to play after an hour," Claire stated.


    "Let''s play once they are online. Ahh... let me tell you something interesting! Our class was observed by the chairman of the DAO! But, he was there to invite us to play under their organization for the upcoming tournament," Sofia shared.


    "Ohh... yes! HAHA... Now that you mentioned that, he was also in our class this morning and he sat beside me. He asked the same to me. But, I told him that I''m just a member and he has to talk to you! Hehe," Claire slightly laughed.


    "Ohh... wow! He was indeed sincere of his invitation," Sofia commented while remembering the offer of the elder.


    "I think so. Did you agree to play under the Department of Academic Office?" Claire curiously asked. "In fact, I don''t really mind whoever is our backer for this coming tournament. It will be easier for our exposure if they help us."


    "I refused his offer. Although he was sincere, we will be playing under our squad," Sofia said.


    "Ah! But, we will need a club to list in the registration. Have you seen the participants that have registered? They have put the names of their clubs too," Claire responded.


    "I haven''t seen the lists of registered participants," Sofia answered. She then went to the mini table where her phone was placed. "Let me see first," she muttered and took her phone.


    Heiz attended to her baby and pretended not to listen to Sofia and Claire. Even if she could hear their conversation, she seemed to have no knowledge of what they were talking about.


    On the other hand, after opening the official website of the game, Sofia pressed the link to the participant''s list. Then, a table of data appeared on her mobile screen.


    She skimmed all the information on it and then casually said, "Hmmn... it seems like the listing of the clubs is just for formality and promotion. They did not indicate that we have to join clubs. And even the email that they sent to officially invite our squad in the tournament, there is no instruction of joining a club."


    "So, we are not going to list a club under us? We will only play under our squad?" Claire inquired.


    "Hmmn... If we won''t place a club under us, the other participants may look at us and think that we are too arrogant. And it would also not be good for the organizers if they collect lacking details to our group. Let''s just list our squad as a participant. And the club is also us," Sofia said.


    ''Squad Name: The Chronos Squad


    Active Club: The Chronos E-Sports Club''


    "Is that okay? Are they going to allow us?" Claire smiled.


    "Of course! We have sister Jing. We can put her name as our Club manager and also our coach!" Sofia quickly replied.


    But then, she suddenly looked at Heiz''s direction and another idea came to her mind. "Sister Heiz, are you interested to join E-sports with my group?"

 Chapter 252 - Lets Win!

    Heiz gaped at Sofia with a puzzled expression on her face. "E-Sports? I''ve never played virtual games. I''m not fit to join your group, sis."


    "Oh, this position does not necessarily require for you to play virtual games. We need an assistant manager. There is a regular salary and you can stay with me in this unit with your baby so that you can earn money. Once you are capable of finding a new place, you can go anytime," Sofia answered.


    "Ahhh..." Heiz hesitated. She lowered her gaze and briefly thought of the offer. ''Assistant manager! Less than an hour after our encounter... yet, she did not even bat an eye to take me as assistant manager?! Such an offer seemed to be the answer to my prayers!''


    Claire was also taken aback by the sudden proposal of Sofia. She could not help but stare at Heiz and silently wondered who the lady was. ''I''ve never met her before. And if she is not a gamer, then how did Sofia meet her?''


    "Is it hard to work as assistant manager in gaming club? I have no work experience of this job," Heiz questioned in a soft tone. Her eyes shifted from her sleeping baby, then to Sofia and Claire.


    "We are forming our E-Sports club to comply in the tournament. As far as I am concerned, there are no strict requirements to manage us. Our squad has a bare minimum of five members including me and Claire. At most, what you will be going to do is check our social media accounts and respond to necessary inquiries," Sofia described.


    "I see. From what I have heard earlier, your squad can play without any club backing your group?" Heiz mumbled.


    "That''s right. We can participate in the tournament without listing a club," Sofia answered. Somehow, she could guess where their conversation is going.


    "Then, there is really no need to form a club," Heiz stated.


    "We need the club as a protection for our group. If we don''t list a club and become the champion of the tournament, those opponents that were groomed and trained by the clubs would be insulted. And they may cause unnecessary trouble in our group. Or, they might complain to the organizer of the tournament," Sofia said.


    Claire and Heiz felt like they have widened their horizon as they listened attentively to Sofia''s explanation. Somehow, they have lost the words that they were about to respond to her.


    "Besides, we are close friends that share the same interest in playing games and pursuits. So, we can train at our own pace and form strategies to win the competition. If we join a club now, there is a chance that the management would separate us. If the club demands that only selected players can play, we have no choice but to obey their arrangement. That''s not what we want. We want to play together and enjoy every battle we fight," Sofia added after the two did not say a word.


    "Yes, I agree! We enjoy playing games because we have familiarized our habits and gameplays," Claire nodded.


    Sofia smiled and looked at Heiz. "What''s your decision?"


    "I... sure! But, I have a condition. I don''t want to reveal my real identity. Is that okay?" Heiz asked.


    This question garnered different reactions from Sofia and Claire. On Sofia''s side, her eyes landed on the baby and she gave her a considerate look. "That''s fine!" she agreed.


    Consequently, on the other side, Claire instantly frowned and looked suspicious to Heiz. She also managed to speak, "Why not?"


    "I just want to live a life away from the limelight. My baby needs a peaceful life," Heiz shrugged.


    "I don''t see any problem with your condition, sis. You can keep your identity hidden. Clubs are an internal matter. If we don''t want to reveal personal details of the staff, the tournament organizers won''t force us," Sofia said.


    "Sof, you just trust her easily? If she wants her identity hidden, there is something wrong with her! Where did you meet her? When did you become so trusting?" Claire leaned on Sofia''s ears and whispered worriedly.


    "It''s okay, Claire. She sold me a watch, earlier. And I trust her," Sofia said as she remembered the first time she had eye contact with Heiz. The sense of desperation that is reflected in this single mother''s eyes is still fresh in her mind. She was not na?ve to trust a stranger that easily. But, for some unknown reason, she felt that Heiz had earned her trust despite their too short encounter.


    "Okay," Claire said and stood straight. She took a deep breath then forced a smile when she looked at Heiz again. "Sofia is our squad leader. In other words, she will be your boss if you agree to be the assistant manager of our club. She is not strict so it''s better if you agree to her offer, sis."


    "Really?" Heiz''s face lit up.


    "Of course! Even if you make mistake, she will not fire you! And Ms. Jing Jing, the one we mentioned who will be the club manager, is also friendly. You are lucky to meet Sofia!" Claire chuckled.


    "Ahh... what a sweet-talking! I did not know you are capable of overly complimenting me, Claire!" Sofia joked.


    "She is just modest. Sofia is not strict. She is a reliable boss," Claire told Heiz in defense.


    "Not strict? Hmm...that depends! When it comes to regular rules, I am reasonable. As long as my kindness is not taken advantage of and used against me or the people I value, I''m fine. After all, we are protective to the people and things we love," Sofia slightly laughed.


    "True. For the people we value, we protect them unconditionally." Heiz said and glance at her baby with gentle expression on her face. "When can I start?" she inquired.


    "We have scheduled appointments and have not registered in the tournament. Maybe, by next week, we can finalize our arrangement as well as your salary," Sofia answered.


    "You don''t need to pay me as assistant manager. Since you let me stay here in your place, I''ll take this as my salary," Heiz stated but Sofia was quick to shake her head twice about her idea. No way!


    "Sister, if I don''t give you salary, how are you going to earn and save money for your baby? Don''t worry, this world does not lack money. My squad will find a way to gather them for us to afford your salary. Hahaha," Sofia playfully said and suddenly became excited about the opening of their business.


    Claire joined her and laughed too. "Hahaha... Yes, I will give my best in the tournament to be the champion again. Then, we can pay your salary Heiz! It''s unfair if we don''t pay you!" Unlike Sofia, Claire''s mindset was simply on the prize money.


    "That''s a good motivation, Claire! Let''s win!" Sofia giggled and clapped her hand.


    "We will win! Our squad leader is great! Heiz, if you have time, I can teach you how to play online games too! Hahaha," Claire grinned.


    Hearing their stifled laughter, Heiz''s shoulder also vibrated as she tried to contain her laughter. If only gathering money was just as easy as Sofia said!


    ''Insisting to pay.... What an odd character! If this is the new form of selfishness, may this kind of character multiply,'' Heiz secretly thought while she remembered the scene when Sofia said she is being selfish when she invited her to take a temporary shelter.

 Chapter 253 - Rainy Night (1)

    As the night went deeper, the rain also poured harder. Most people had switched off the lights in their units and had gone to sleep. It was just too easy to feel sleepy with the kind of weather they have.


    "Heiz, you should sleep. Don''t mind us. We are used to staying up over midnight. Your baby might wake up later," Sofia spoke after realizing that it had been past 10 PM. She just noticed the time after reading the chat message from Jing Jing confirming the publicity of the wedding ceremony and their plans. Everything was settled and Boss Wang will start the formal announcement tomorrow.


    "Okay. I did feel a little sleepy. My baby would usually wake up at 1 AM," Heiz agreed and spread a blanket on the floor, just next to the sofa. She was indeed forcing herself not to sleep yet as she felt rude to sleep early that the owner of the place. Now that Sofia thoughtfully suggested for her to rest, she felt relieved.


    "How about you transfer your baby to my bed? You can sleep together there comfortably. I can sleep on the sofa," Sofia offered for the second time. But, Heiz was not thick-faced and only shook her head.


    "Are you sure you are okay to sleep on the floor? It''s raining and the floor is cold. Even if you have blankets, you can still get sick from the coldness on it," Claire emphasized as she watched Heiz placing her blankets on the floor. There was no problem with the baby for the little girl was safely tucked and placed on the sofa.


    "Just use my bed. Don''t be shy. Bring Hazel with you. Come!" Sofia insisted and gestured for Heiz to pick her baby to follow her.


    "It''s inappropriate, sis. I''m fine here," Heiz said.


    "It''s just the four of us. Your baby and you. Claire and me. There is no standard of what is appropriate. Come!" Sofia sternly spoke.


    "That''s right. Just use the bed, Heiz. Sofia rarely sleeps. You''ll never know, she might just stay awake for the rest of the night," Claire added.


    "Ahh... I will sleep on the sofa. My pimples will triplicate if I don''t sleep," Sofia sighed. Her hand subconsciously touched her jaw and massaged the area where small pimples exist.


    "I''m really fine here. Staying inside a roof is already a huge favor. Thank you very much! I don''t think I will be able to sleep in your bed. Good night, guys!" Heiz reasoned and quickly laid down her body on the pile of blankets.


    Seeing that they can no longer change the mind of Heiz, Sofia just nodded her head. "Okay, suit yourself."


    "I think my phone is fully charged now. Where do you want to play, Sof? Do you want to come with me?" Claire suddenly asked.


    "Yeah, I''ll come with you. Good night, Heiz. I''ll bring my key and will lock the door. Don''t open the door if someone will knock later," Sofia said. She grabbed the key to her unit, her phone, and charger as well as a bottle of water. Then, the two of them exited the unit.


    When the lock of the door in Sofia''s apartment clicked, Heiz immediately sat up and stared at the empty space.


    ''For the first time in forever, I have felt safe and peaceful! It had been so long since I experience to live in a decent place,'' she thought.


    After a while, Heiz looked around and saw a notebook and a few books that were placed on the mini table.


    Heiz reached the notebook and flipped it open. But, on the first page, what she saw were sketches of maps in the battlefield that Sofia had drawn to form a strategy for their gameplay.


    "What are these drawings? I did not remember having this kind of lesson in my school," she muttered.


    She looked at the sketches with much interest but no matter how she tried to understand the details written on the notebook page, she could not comprehend its content. She continued to flip in another page until she felt like her eyes were about to close.


    Before she knew it, she had fallen asleep with the notebook in her hand.


    Meanwhile, Claire stared at the bottled water in Sofia''s hand. It was raining, and it''s rare for someone to feel thirsty.


    "Did you eat dinner, Sof?" she curiously asked while they continued to walk down the staircase.


    "I did not have a cash to buy food. But, I''m fine," Sofia easily replied.


    "You have no money?" Claire stopped in her tracks. How could it be? With so many plans that we have, it never occurred to her mind that Sofia would be out of money.


    "There is money, I just don''t have cash with me. I prepared a paper bill for my food but I''ve used that money to pay for this watch. I can live with water, tonight," Sofia said and raised her wrist for Claire to see the watch.


    "Ohh... then, tomorrow?" Claire raised her eyebrows and glance at the watch. She wanted to ask if Sofia would have a cash for tomorrow or none.


    "I have money, Claire. I did not bring them when I left with sister Jing this morning. And it''s not convenient to go out and buy food. It''s raining harder," Sofia giggled.


    "Okay, well... Clark and Joey are out. I might as well tell them to come over and bring food?" Claire suggested.


    "There is no need. I am fine doing water therapy," Sofia replied.


    The two finally reached Claire''s apartment and Sofia settled on the chair.


    ''Unexpectedly, this body is more energetic when I thought of playing games!'' Sofia pondered. She had been so busy the entire day and was sure to fall asleep early. But, after Claire told her to play, her sleepiness vanished right away!


    Sofia unlocked her phone and logged in to her account. After entering the game, she collected the daily benefits of her account and checked all her in-game mails.


    "Ahh... it''s not yet fully charged," Claire spoke on the corner after checking her phone that was still connected to the outlet with its charger. She then started to compose a message and quickly sent it.


    ~ To: Clark <3


    If it''s not trouble, will you come over and bring us food? Sofia did not eat her dinner. Only if it''s convenient for you to come.


    "It''s okay. Just wait for it to be fully charged. They are not yet online," Sofia told Claire but her attention was still on the system mails.


    "Alright. What are you checking?" Claire inquired and went behind her.


    "There is another upcoming update in the game again," Sofia said. "Look at this mail. The game will adjust all the skills of the summoner character. How odd!"


    It was indeed odd for Sofia. She had recently paid a lot of time to study the current skills of the summoner character. But, the update says major changes and revamp of the character will happen.


    "I can''t really relate to summoner character. I don''t know how to play it. And no one really picks that character, Sof, except you!"  Claire commented and did not bother to read the mail.


    "That''s true. I might be the only player who would take notice of the update.. Others will for sure ignore this mail," Sofia agreed and continued to read the information on her screen.

 Chapter 254 - Rainy Night (2)

    "Sof, I have a weird vibe with your guest. Don''t you think it''s suspicious that she wants to hide her identity?" Claire questioned with a deep lines on her forehead.


    "It''s for ther privacy of her baby. Since she does not know how to play games, some people might bash her in the future," Sofia casually stated.


    "Ahhh... but she did not remove her facemask even though she is already inside your room! It''s not just about basher! She does not want us to know her look also!" Claire spoke feeling uneasy. Indeed, the lady never showed her full face to them. Sofia was also waiting for her to reveal her face but Heiz only laid down on the pile of blankets without removing her facemask.


    "Hmn... Her family disowned her because of her baby, Claire. In fact, I also felt wary of her identity. She let her baby sleep underneath the small wooden cart. Heiz has no home. But, since we meet her in her lowest point in life we should help her. Who knows? If one day we would be put in a similar situation... It would be nice if there is someone willing to help us too. Ahhh... Let''s just see how this arrangement goes," Sofia replied. The fact that Heiz had a valuable watch in her possession, her identity was not simple.


    But, whatever her identity is, Sofia was not really interested to know. She just want to help her.


    Claire suddenly felt a deep sentiment after knowing the situation of Heiz. She lowered her gaze and was silent for a minute.


    "Don''t worry," Sofia smiled at her before returning her attention to the screen of her phone.


    Claire released a long sigh and looked up, "I can''t help it. I am really worried... you know, there are reports about underground syndicates using young teens to let them pretend to be beggars to collect money in the streets for them. The government news had warned us about that modus. What if your guest is part of it?"


    "Mmm... She is genuine. I can feel her sincerity. Maybe she has other reason to hide her identity," Sofia stated.


    "Okay, Sof. Do you think she is the same age as us? I think we are the same age. Why would her parents disown her? That''s cruel!" Claire mumbled.


    "I don''t know," Sofia sighed. But, in her mind, she could speculate a few reasons.  She just does not want to judge Heiz and her family. After all, it''s not her business to meddle with civil matters.


    Half an hour passed with the two of them talking about Heiz and her baby. Suddenly, Clark and Joey''s voices called out from outside of the door.


    "They are coming over? It''s late," Sofia reacted and went to open the door.


    "Yeah, it''s more convenient to play in the same place," Claire followed behind her.


    As they pushed the door open, they saw Joey bringing two plastics of take-out food containers. Sofia glanced at the food container with amusement in her eyes. "You''re bringing food?" she asked.


    "Hahaha, Sof--" Joey smirked but suddenly noticed Claire placing her fingers on her lips. ''Shhh...'' They exchanged a silent message in a split second before he continued, "-- we went out and brought some food. Stephen is with us too. Bro, hurry! You walk like a snail!!!"


    Sofia looked behind him but it was Clark who was the first to come next to Joey and he was also holding another transparent plastic containing wrapped snacks. "His, Sof!" he said and switched his line of vision to wink at Claire.


    Claire stepped forward and took the transparent plastic bag from Clark. Their hands slightly touched. "Come in! How did you get so many snacks?" she asked while checking the contents of the bag.


    "My legs are so numb," the weak voice of Stephen suddenly followed. But he managed to smile cheekily after he made eye contact with Sofia. His face brightened and he stood straight right away.


    "What''s up with your clothing?" Sofia gave him a scrutinizing look.


    "My shirt got drenched by the rain. This is the coat of Clark''s driver. I''ve borrowed it! Hehe," Stephen chuckled as the group stepped inside Claire''s living room.


    Joey carefully set the food container on the table while the rest of the group went to the couch. Stephen was the first to take a sit followed by Sofia. Then, Clark sat beside Stephen and Claire occupied the next space.


    "We coincidentally pass by at my favorite restaurant on our way home and  we thought to bring their specialty for you to taste them. Try it," Clark spoke and moved the food container towards Sofia and Claire.


    "Thank you!" Claire quickly said and opened the lid of the container. It contained buttered chicken that was cut into eight pieces. It really looked salivating that Claire suddenly felt hungry. She clipped one cut and almost moaned of the tasty flavor.


    Sofia only stared at Claire before she also  took a bite.


    "Sof, eat more. There''s another container with vegetable salad! Here," Joey spoke and gestured for her to open the other.


    ''Vegetable salad and buttered chicken?'' Sofia looked at their faces with suspicion. But she did not say a word.


    "Is it good?" Stephen suddenly whispered from her side.


    "Yes. It is," Sofia answered and casually offered him a piece of buttered chicken. "You''ve managed to slipped away from your parent''s watch?" she asked.


    "They had something to focus on. Some sort of antique from my aunt''s daughter. My aunt and uncle went to see my parents. They are after some huge assets that her mother-in-law left," Stephen chuckled. But his eyes landed on Sofia''s wrist where the watch was strapped on it. He momentarily paused and stared at the watch.


    Sofia sensed him staring with curiosity. She smiled and said, "I''ve bought this today. It looks good, right?"


    Stephen nodded and looked away. "It suits you!"


    Alas! If only he had just listened attentively to his parent''s conversation about the antique that they were looking for, he could have recognized the watch that Sofia was wearing.


    But, since he did not pay much attention to them and was too caught up with how he could escape, he did not think too much about Sofia''s watch.


    After they finished the food, the four of them proceed to log in and play the game. Stephen had no device to use and could only watch at Sofia''s mobile screen.


    The fifth teammate was a random player in the game.


    "I''m going to use a tank," Sofia said.


    "I''ll pick assassin. Hehe," Claire followed.


    "Then, I''ll go with mage," Clark stated.


    "I will adjust whatever this fifth player would choose," Joey mumbled.


    "Good for you bro! I''m sure that the fifth player would use mage. Look at his in-game name!" Stephen chuckled. The name of the player was ''only_mage86''.


    "Try to use the marksman, Clark. Just follow me," Sofia suggested after the fifth player showed its pick.


    "Okay. I will use mage on our next match," Clark agreed as he understood that it was essential to balance the characters for them to win.


    Soon, their lineup was settled and their characters were deployed on the map of the battlefield. They quickly scattered in different lanes after spawning on their base...


    But this first match had not yet even reached ten minutes, Sofia felt Stephen''s head fall on her shoulder.. She only adjusted her sitting position for them to sit comfortably and continued to play.

 Chapter 255 - Rainy Night (3)

    As the group focused their attention on fighting their opponents, only Sofia noticed that Stephen had fallen asleep. She did not mind him leaning on her but her movement was indeed restricted by his weight.


    Only after the first match was finished with victory on their side did she feel that her shoulder was numb. The weight of Stephen''s head was straining her full control of her character that she felt her gameplay was a little off from her usual.


    But, it was not just the heavy weight that she felt uncomfortable. When Stephen snuggled closer to her neck, his uneven breaths touched on the side of Sofia''s ear. And she sensed that his breathing was abnormally hot. It was in the literal sense that told her that something was seriously wrong.


    "Next game?" Claire asked and directly sent them an invite. Clark and Joey quickly accepted her invite and waited for Sofia to join.


    "Wait," Sofia whispered and placed her phone in her lap. Then, she raised her hand and pressed the back of her palm on Stephen''s forehead. "He''s hot."


    Hearing Sofia''s calm voice, the three who were just waiting for her to come inside their virtual lobby for the second match instantly snapped their attention away from their phone and looked up at her.


    "Ohhh," Clark reacted, not sure what to say. He only glanced at Stephen and was not able to comprehend what Sofia meant. ''What hot?'' he stared in confusion.


    As for Claire, a small yet teasing smile rose from her lips. "Isn''t he?" she mumbled.


    "Ahhh... I''m envious! I hope everyone can sleep and look hot like Stephen!" Joey joked.


    "..." Sofia paused for a few seconds and took a deep breath. "Ehem! He is burning. I mean, he has a fever," Sofia quickly rephrased her words after realizing that her companions misunderstood her.


    "Stephen has a fever?!" the three exclaimed in unison.


    Just now, they really thought that Sofia was complimenting Stephen''s innocent appearance. He did look handsome despite his messy hair and peaceful bearing. The coat he had borrowed from Clark''s driver actually had given him a vibe of a respectable boss.


    Joey quickly followed the gesture of Sofia and checked Stephen''s forehead. "He is really burning. AHHH!!! This is because of the rain. Now, he is sick! If only he had used an umbrella!" Joey frowned and spoke anxiously.


    "What do we do?" Claire stood and put aside her phone.


    "Do you have a medicine for fever, Claire?" Sofia asked as she was trying to maintain a calm composure. It was her first time dealing with someone who had a fever. Something like this was not in forte.


    "Let''s check his body temperature first and see how bad his fever is," Clark stated before Claire could respond to Sofia''s query.


    "I don''t have a thermometer or medicine!" Claire panicked.


    As their dreadful feeling grew bigger, Stephen stirred and opened his eyes. "Are you done playing?" he weakly murmured as if he was not aware of how serious his situation.


    "Bro, you still think of our playing when you are actually in fever!" Joey also stood in front of him and placed both of his hands on his waist. His height was already towering so Sofia waved her hand and gestured for him to return to his seat. "We are so worried about you," he grumbled and took a sit.


    "You have a fever," Sofia softly old Stephen.


    "Ohh," Stephen sat straight and blinked his eyes a couple of times. The side of his eyelids had become misty as he felt a tear start to gather to roll down his face.


    Before he could wipe the tear that was forming on the side of his eyes, Sofia extended her hand and brushed her fingers to it. "Don''t sleep. You have to take medicine."


    Stephen smiled and yawned. He resembled that of an innocent child. He stretched his arms and legs comfortably and looked Sofia in the eye.


    "Okay. It''s probably the rain. I do feel like my body is so tired. Do you have a medicine?" he gently nodded his head and leaned his back on the sofa.


    "I have no medicine for fever. I''m sorry," Claire helplessly replied.


    They were just teenagers. No matter what, it was not something that they had anticipated. Even Sofia who had more experience in life was sure that she does not have any fever medicine in her place too.


    "It will be fine. Calm down, Claire. I will call my driver to get us the fever medicine. What else do we need?" Clark presented and rubbed Claire''s back to comfort her.


    ''What else do we need? Bring Stephen to the hospital?'' Sofia mentally asked. "Other than medicine, thermometer, uhmm... we need hot compress... and..." she trailed and felt like she really does not know everything in this situation. It was her first time taking care of someone who felt sick! After a few seconds of pause, she continued, "...search on the internet how to handle a patient with fever at home. We might miss something."


    "Okay, okay... I am searching here. There are many results. Let me read the answers first," Joey spoke and quickly scroll down his phone. Claire and Clark followed and started typing too.


    "Do you want to go to the hospital?" Sofia asked Stephen. The hospital was indeed her most appealing solution.


    On the other side, Claire was quick to grab a glass of water and hand it to Sofia. "Maybe we let Stephen drink water first to keep him hydrated. Here is the glass of water, Sof," she said.


    "This is indeed necessary," Sofia agreed and accepted the glass. She then moved the glass next to Stephen''s mouth, "Have a drink, Steph."


    Stephen subconsciously grasped the glass but it was Sofia''s full hand that was already holding the glass that he grabbed. "No wonder I felt the chilling coldness. It''s probably the fever."


    "It''s better if we go to the hospital," Sofia said feeling bothered by his response. But she did mind that Stephen hand covered her hand with his as he drank the water.


    "No, no, not the hospital. I just want to sleep. I think I will be fine after I sleep," Stephen responded after finishing the glass of water. His eyes were half opened and his voice sounded like he had contracted a flu.


    "Okay, wait for the medicine. You have to take medicine before you sleep," Sofia repeated and returned the empty glass to Claire.


    "It says here that he needs to have medicine and take it every six hours if the fever is not gone. Then, we will monitor his temperature. If it''s abnormally high, we must send him to hospital," Joey summarized all the information he had managed to search.


    "Fever is a normal reaction of the body from our immune system to fight foreign bacteria. Especially that he was running at night and exposed in the rain for who knows how long," Clark read loudly the information he saw on the internet before he dialed the number of his personal number. Then, he moved farther to speak his instruction to the man.


    "I''m fine guys. I''m not going to die. What''s up with all your gloomy tone!" Stephen chuckled and tried to lighten up the atmosphere around him. But soon, he did felt nauseous. "I''ll be fine," he said and closed his eyes.

 Chapter 256 - Rainy Night (4)

    ''I will not be fine! You have a fever! Health is a serious matter!'' Sofia wanted to speak the words but, something suddenly dawned upon her... ''This is the second time,'' she thought.


    A sudden flashback of her conversation with Heiz telling her the same words and in the same manner came to her mind. She could not help but make a comparison.


    ''I will be fine.''


    Now that she remembered Heiz, it was really the second time that someone told her that they would be fine. But, the assurance does not feel like it was spoken to console her. Rather, it was for themselves.


    ''How odd... the similarity of the way it was spoken was uncanny! Even the expression of their faces...'' Sofia pondered while staring intently at Stephen. Somehow, Sofia suddenly realized that his eyes had the same shape as Heiz. Perhaps coincidence?


    "Do you feel a headache or are there other pain you are experiencing right now?" Sofia questioned and looked at the time in her watch. It was just about to go midnight, 11:47 PM.


    "Bro, we have to check if there are other symptoms! Maybe this is not just a fever. It''s better to be sure. Now, tell us if you feel hurt in other areas of your body," Joey stated. His attention was still on the search results on his phone.


    "No, I don''t feel pain. I''m just sleepy. Hehe. Come on, it''s just a fever, guys. I had experienced worst than this," Stephen told them feeling a little bit concerned by how worried they were towards him.


    "It''s good if you are not in pain," Sofia exhaled. Then, she looked at Clark in the eyes, "How is it? Is there medicine available in the convenience store?"


    "Yes, there is. My driver is on his way. He already had the medicine and other stuffs," Clark spoke after reading the text message from his driver. He casually place his hand over Claire''s shoulder and guided her to sit.


    "Good thing we are all here," Sofia said. "Or else, I would probably insist on bringing him to the hospital if it''s just me."


    "Haha, please, no hospital. Sof, I''m really fine!" Stephen insisted with stifled laughter.


    Minutes passed and Clark''s driver did arrive bringing everything they need in one plastic bag.


    "Thank you," Sofia did not forget to express her gratitude to the man after he handed the bag.


    "You''re welcome, miss," the man respectfully replied before he went out of the room.


    They quickly checked Stephen''s temperature and let him take the medicine. The man maintain his silence and only spoke a word of ''thanks'' to them after taking the medicine.


    "Bro, we will monitor you. If your temperature becomes high, we will have no choice but to drive you to the hospital at this ungodly hour. My gosh! Your immune system is so weak to catch fever easily," Joey jokingly commented.


    "Alright, don''t bully me, bro. I can''t defend myself right now! Wait until this fever is cured and I will show you who is weak!" Stephen grumbled but a small smile did not leave his face. "You guys don''t need to guard me. Just sleep and have your rest too. We have classes tomorrow," he added to remind them.


    "Aissh... just rest, bro. We can attend classes tomorrow. Just worry yourself," Joey glowered.


    "Who would have thought that the almighty Stephen who managed to scare the other students in our school was actually this vulnerable," Claire joined and teased him. With Stephen''s reputation, almost everyone would not even dare to offend him. Yet, at that moment, the man looked harmless in front of her.


    They let Stephen lay his body properly to sleep on the sofa while the rest of them transferred on the floor, just beside him. They have long forgotten the second match and were completely focused on Stephen.


    "Okay, I have told my driver that I won''t go back home tonight. I''ll sleep here," Clark stated. Because he had his driver, he did not intend to stay in Claire''s place. He just planned to play games and go home later with Stephen and Joey. But now, he was also bothered by Stephen''s condition and decided to stay.


    "If you are not troubled to sleep here," Claire said and pointed to the floor.


    "Well," Clark hesitated.  He was from an upper-class family. Such experience suddenly felt new and... exciting to him?!


    Sofia chuckled at Clark''s reaction. "There''s always a first time of everything, Clark."


    "Yes, there is," Clark grinned and understood what she meant. He then crossed his arms around his chest and tilted his head, pretending to think of some good ideas. After a while, he spoke again, "Unless Claire is willing to share her bed with me? What do you think, Sof? I won''t do anything illegal! I''m a good boy!"


    "Good boy!" Joey could not help but repeat his words. But Clark only laughed at his tone and did not take offense.


    "Hahaha, why ask me? Ask Claire directly?! It''s her bed!" Sofia responded. "Wait, are you officially boyfriend and girlfriend? You two in a relationship?" she suddenly questioned and looked at their faces to check their reaction.


    Claire quickly shifted her gaze and avoided an eye contact amost as if she looked timid. But Clark boldly raised both of his eyebrows up and down repeatedly.


    There was not a single verbal confirmation from these two but it was enough for Sofia to get the response she needed.


    "Really? Well then, you sleep on the floor, Clark," Sofia commanded with a hint of playfulness in her voice.


    "Let''s all sleep on the floor. I will get my mattress and pillow," Claire forced herself to speak. Then, she quickly went inside her bedroom.


    "It''s also fine by me," Sofia said and watched at the retreating figure of Claire.


    "Me too. I can sleep wherever. My family used to go on camping in the mountains when I was young. We would sleep outdoor and watch the blanket of stars," Joey sounded while he reminisced his childhood memories. Then, he nudged at Clark, "Congrats!"


    Clark''s grin even became wider, "Thanks!" And the two exchanged a friendly fist bump.


    Claire returned to her living room. She was effortlessly dragging her mattress and pillows. Clark and Joey moved their feet and quickly helped her. They push the mini table on the corner and set the mattress at the center.


    "Sof, you must be exhausted too? We can monitor Stephen''s condition. How about you sleep in your place?" Claire suddenly expressed still bothered about her guest. She also remembered Sofia and Jing Jing had been doing errands the entire day.


    "Right! Sof, we will take care of Stephen. You should rest too," Clark supported.


    Sofia did not tell them about all of her whereabouts that day. But, Jing Jing had been occasionally chatting with them in their group chat. Hence, they were actually aware of how busy Sofia''s entire day was.


    "It''s fine. I''m not really that tired," Sofia replied while she slanted her body on the leg of the sofa. Stephen''s hand brushed her hair and gently patted her head. Sofia glanced at the man however, his eyes were already fully shut.


    Their conversation and her response was the last thing that Stephen listened to before his consciousness fully went to slumber.


    "Alright, let''s have our rest. We can play tomorrow. I will try to contact other squad leaders if they are willing to have a practice match," Sofia told them. But then, she suddenly remembered the list of participants that had been able to register for the tournament. "Or, we can study and analyze the dynamics of our opponents and formulate a strategy against their gameplays," she added.


    "Okay, Sof!" the three of them agreed.


    "Good night, guys!"


    The rain seemed unstoppable. It continued to pour heavily, watering the entire land, beating the leaves of the trees. And there was occasional lightning that would flash on the sky. But the teens had settled peacefully in one place and slept.


    They have settled in this position: Stephen was on the sofa. Sofia was next to him however she was laying on the mattress on the floor. Then, Claire was beside Sofia. Clark positioned beside Claire but with a pillow in between them. And Joey was on the other end of the mattress.


    At dawn, Sofia woke up to monitor Stephen''s temperature. She also checked his forehead as if not satisfied with the numbers that the thermometer produced.


    "Is he still burning with fever, Sof?" Claire whispered behind her as Sofia''s movement awakened her from her sleep.


    "His temperature is back to normal. Thankfully, the fever is gone. Go sleep, Claire. It''s still early," Sofia softly replied and put down the thermometer on the side.


    "Mmn," Claire hummed a response and rolled over until her body moved out from the pillow boundary she had placed. Without thinking too much, her hand reached to hug Clark, filling her senses with the scent of him....

 Chapter 257 - Jing Jing Meets Heiz (1)

    The last beads of dew dropped from a wild grass leaf as the sun rose the next day. Because of the heavy rain, the environment of district 7 looked crisp and green as people inhaled the clean air.


    The azure sky was ornamented with a blast of glamorous sunlight. And the newly awakened residents were treated to a spectacular scene as a few birds danced about the clouds, chirping happily as they flew around.


    The remnants of the rainy night started to evaporate as the people starts their new day.


    Thursday, 23rd of February


    As early as 6 AM, news about the wedding ceremony started to spread around.


    "BIG NEWS! LOOK!!!" the delivery boy repeatedly yelled on the street as he distributed the newspaper.


    Boss Wang had a sleepless night as he made sure that such an article would be able to publish as headlines in the local newspaper. On top of that, he also made an announcement to the local channel on television and radio.


    People who were still holding a mug of coffee began to gossip with their neighbors and family. Some of them were able to read the news while cooking their food for breakfast.


    Various speculations quickly circulated on the streets about the bride. "The mayor''s daughter is getting married! Woahh... best wishes to her family. But, who is the groom?"


    "Why is this news not complete? Useless! The press should put all the information about this wedding!"


    "I''ve never heard of the mayor''s daughter having a boyfriend? Have you seen her dating?"


    "Which family would tie a knot with the mayor''s sweet daughter?!"


    While the news stir all the curiosity towards Grace, it did not concentrate on her family. But still, it was enough to give the spotlight to her.


    Amidst the release of the first news, Sofia''s mobile screen had been flashing non-stop. The device was placed on the floor, just above her head. There were four people that subsequently called her: Jing Jing, Grace, Brent, and boss Wang.


    However, Sofia and the others were still asleep and the volume setting of her phone was in silent mode. All missed calls were displayed on her notifications.


    Among the four people, boss Wang was the one that had persisted in calling Sofia. He had not left home and stayed in his company for the entire night. Just as he planned to go home early to catch some sleep, he suddenly caught the complaints of the citizens about the news.


    The complaints were mostly directed to his press company. Because they had not revealed the full detail of the wedding ceremony, people ridiculed them and dubbed his article as written by an incompetent reporter.


    "Jing Jing, you really bring misfortune to me! Look at what the people had been saying in the news! They are bashing my company!" Boss Wang angrily scolded Jing Jing. After he failed to contact Sofia, he could only call Jing Jing and vent his anger.


    "Boss Wang, it is early in the morning. Why are you so angry? That''s bad for your health!" Jing Jing responded. She was also bothered by the reaction of the other people as it was her former company that was targeted. But now that boss Wang was scolding her, she started to feel that her worry was not necessary. "I think Miss Sofia is still asleep. I will contact you once I discuss this matter with her."


    "Hmmph! You jinx! You brought me bad luck! It''s really you! You better tell your new boss what her plan is! If I don''t hear anything from you, I will release the information of the groom!" Boss Wang threatened.


    Initially, they planned to control all the attention of the people. So, they decided to make a time interval of the announcements.


    The 6 AM was about the mayor''s daughter. This news was intended to be spread using every means available. Then, the identity of the young master of the Lee family will be announced at 10 AM. They planned to use the local magazine to announce the news. And by noontime, they will announce the last news, which was about the venue of the ceremony and the cost.


    There were still several hours before the second announcement should be published. But, boss Wang suddenly wants to put all the information out to the public in order to save the image of his company!


    Jing Jing forced a smile and took a sip of her coffee. "Boss Wang, you better follow what we have discussed yesterday."


    "AH! I do want to follow what we have arranged. But, the reputation of my company is at stake! People are calling my employees ret*rded for publishing a piece of incomplete news!" Boss Wang reasoned.


    "There is a purpose why we have set a time interval of the news. If you want to act like a willful brat instead of a grown man, I cannot help it. Now, I will finish my coffee. Boss Wang, please have a great day!" Jing Jing said and ended their conversation. ''I''ll just go to Miss Sofia''s apartment and talk to her personally.''


    While Sofia was asleep, Heiz left her place and went down, carrying her baby. At the lobby, she looked around to see her wooden cart.


    ''Where is it?'' she nervously asked in her thought when she could not see the cart at the corner of the lobby.


    Her face was still covered with facemask as she walked carefully towards the exit of the building and approached the guards.


    "Hi," Heiz called one of the guards in a friendly tone.


    "Good Morning, ma''am. Are you here to get your cart? I placed them at the back," the guard gestured for her to follow.


    "Who is she? Who allows that homeless to come in and out of this property?" the other guard whispered to his colleague. But his voice was actually loud enough for Heiz to hear his question.


    "This lady is Miss Sofia''s companion last night," the first guard answered. Then, he smiled at Heiz and said, "Don''t mind my colleague. This way, ma''am."


    As the guard took his step, Heiz quickly waved her free hand. "Sir, I came down to inform you if it is possible for my cart to stay on this building? Miss Sofia hired me as her employee." She was just there to inform the man that she won''t take the cart for the time being.


    "Well, okay. But I won''t take any responsibility for your belongings this time. If someone steals stuff in your wooden cart, don''t put the blame on me. My suggestion is for you to get the things that you left in the cart," the guard stated.


    Heiz nodded her head and understood the man. "Thank you."


    "Hmm... Come! My shift is over anyway. I will help you pack your things," the guard offered while glancing at the baby in her arms.


    The things in the wooden cart were the merchandise that Heiz was selling on the street. To other people, it may not be that valuable. But, for Heiz, she had put all her penny to but those merchandises to retail it.


    Even if Sofia had offered her a job, she was unwilling to discard them.


    The guard guided her to the back where her wooden cart was placed.


    "To be honest, the owner of the building does not allow anyone to leave their belongings to us. I have transferred your cart here so that no one would notice it," the guard explained as they continued to walk.


    "Thank you, sir," Heiz repeated, unable to think of other proper words to say. She did not expect that the man would go that far and hide her wooden cart safely. It had been so long since someone had acted her in her favor. Such a gesture made Heiz feel moved.


    "No need to thank me. You are Miss Sofia''s employee now. Are you a cleaner?" the guard inquired. He assumed that Heiz might be there to help Sofia clean her apartment unit.


    "AH, something like that," Heiz vaguely replied.


    "Then, we will probably see each other often," the guard commented.


    Since Heiz was holding her baby, only the guard was doing all the work. He put all the merchandise in one bag and volunteered to carry them.


    One man was still in his uniform, carrying a huge bag, and one woman carrying a baby in her arm. Such a sight greeted a few boarders of the apartment.


    The two casually walked side by side towards Sofia''s apartment unit. But as they were a few meters away from the place, they saw a woman standing at the door.


    Heiz paused her steps but the guard continued and even smiled at the woman. "Hi, Miss Jing Jing!"


    It was indeed Jing Jing. She just arrived at the place and was about to knock on the door when he heard the guard call her name.


    "Hello, chief! I''m checking Miss Sofia. I have an important matter to discuss with her," Jing Jing said.


    "Okay. Well, I am helping the employee of Miss Sofia to carry her things," the guard stated with a grin on his face.


    "Employee?" Jing Jing slightly raised her eyebrow and looked at the lady behind the guard with a small smile on her lips.

 Chapter 258 - Jing Jing Meets Heiz (2)

    "Ms. Jing Jing, the lady, and her baby accompanied Miss Sofia last night. I was on duty when they came together," the guard prompted when he noticed that Jing Jing was staring at Heiz. For some unknown reason, he could sense the doubt in Jing Jing''s expression.


    On the other hand, Jing Jing slowly moved her feet closer to the Heiz and peeked at her baby. The small child was wrapped in an ordinary blanket.  "The sun is up. It''s perfect weather for a morning walk," she said and glanced at the sky.


    "Yes, ma''am," Heiz agreed while looking in the direction of the sunrise too.


    ''This girl is not chatty,'' Jing Jing thought.


    The quick and short response of Heiz made her stare at the girl once more.


    Such expression on her face while gazing at Heiz was actually misunderstood by the guard.


    In fact, Jing Jing was not doubting Heiz. Whether she is really an employee or not, she was not bothered by it.


    Sofia could confirm the lady''s employment status eventually. But, what she felt odd was that there was almost no emotion in the eyes of Heiz after seeing her.


    "Alright, ladies... I shall take my leave. Enjoy the rest of the day!" the guard suddenly interrupted the growing silence between them and place the plastic full of merchandise on the side of the door.


    "Thank you, sir," Heiz looked in the direction of the guard and slightly bowed her head.


    The man only waved his hand and maintained a smile on his face before he turned around and walked away.


    "Is Miss Sofia still asleep?" Jing Jing suddenly asked when only the two of them had remained standing outside the unit. She caught the baby stirred and yawned in her peripheral vision before she completely opened her eyes. "What beautiful eyes!" Jing Jing exclaimed as she gaped at the coral green eyes of the baby.


    "Thank you! Uhhm, Sis-- I mean... Miss Sofia offered me to stay for the night in her place because it was raining. Before I sleep, she went out with her friend. She has not come back yet," Heiz replied but her attention was now on her child.


    "Oh... I see. Then, she must be with Claire playing games all night," Jing Jing speculated.


    "Yes, I think they mentioned it," Heiz mumbled.


    "I''ll just go down to check on them. It''s nice to meet you. The name is Jing Jing. I''m actually an employee of Miss Sofia too," Jing Jing stretched her hand and offer Heiz a handshake.


    "Ah, yes. I''m Heiz and my baby is named Hazel. Miss Sofia offered me the job but we haven''t really discussed the full details of it. I hope she does not change her mind," Heiz shook her hand and quickly clarified her status. Technically, she was not yet an official employee for they only have a verbal discussion last night.


    Seeing Jing Jing''s formal attire, she could not help but compare her own clothing. ''It had been so long since I used to wear branded and authentic clothes. But now, it would seem so impossible to wear that kind of clothing.''


    After her pregnancy, her situation had really shifted from the pampered lady in an upper-class society to a nobody with a baby. She could not help but sigh and felt sorry for her baby to grow up with a different childhood experience.


    "What''s wrong?" Jing Jing suddenly asked after being stared at by Heiz for a long time.


    "Oh, no, nothing is wrong. Your clothing is fabulous!" Heiz responded.


    "Ohh, thanks! Actually, you don''t have to worry about Miss Sofia''s decision. Since you have talked about employment, Miss Sofia must have her plans. She won''t change her mind about hiring you," Jing Jing said. "You are not from this district, are you?"


    Hearing Jing Jing''s last question, Heiz shivered and stiffened. It was actually obvious that she was not a citizen in district 7. Because if she is, she would have recognized Jing Jing right away.


    Luckily, she was wearing a facemask, or else, her pale face would totally be seen by Jing Jing.


    As for Jing Jing, it was just a casual remark, and she did not mind the question. It was more like a habit that she managed to acquire on her former job. The question just came out of her mouth out of curiosity.


    Yet, the lady actually looked tense. She was scared of the idea that people would find out about her family background.


    "Nevermind my question. I''ll go check Miss Sofia now or else the press boss will explode his anger on me. See you later, Heiz!" Jing Jing added after realizing that there were urgent matters that she needed to attend to. She quickly left without waiting for Heiz to speak a word.


    Heiz was relieved and stared at Jing Jing back as she suddenly ran towards the staircase until her figure was gone.


    After a while, she remembered the name Sofia mentioned as the manager of the club that they were planning to open. Jing Jing.


    ''AH! So, that is her? She would be the manager and I am her assistant?! How rude of me to not recognize her quickly!'' Heiz panicked. She stood straight and adjusted Hazel in her arms. For a long time, she stared at the empty space where she had last seen Jing Jing.


    Only after Hazel started to grab the neckline of her baggy shirt did she snap out of her thought. She glanced at her merchandise before dragging it inside Sofia''s unit.


    At Claire''s apartment unit, Stephen was the first to react when he heard the knocking sound on the door. He was half-awake as he walked towards the door and open it.


    "Stephen?" Jing Jing was surprised to see the boy.


    "Oh, Ms. Jing Jing, you are here early. Come in," Stephen said and stepped in the side to let her enter the unit.


    "When did you come back here in district 7?" she asked as she entered.


    "Last night. Ms. Jing Jing, we are sleeping in the living room. Shall I wake them up?" he offered.


    "Ohh... I only want to speak with Miss Sofia," Jing Jing replied.


    "Sofia? It''s not good to disturb her sleep. I had a fever and she was taking care of me last night. Sofia sleeps at dawn," Stephen stated.


    "Then, what shall I do? There is some problem with the publicity of the wedding ceremony. I need her opinion about it," Jing Jing started. Then, she immediately explained to Stephen about situation.


    "If there is already a time interval arrangement, just follow it. No need to change anything. It''s just a few hours after the press will clarify the identity of Brent. Can''t they bear small criticisms and controversy?" Stephen told Jing Jing.


    "Controversy... wow! How did I forget this matter? Boss Wang could actually use controversy as leverage to boost their web traffic and engagements online.. It''s another advantage for his business! Stephen, you and Miss Sofia are really amazing! You even understand Miss Sofia''s reasoning! I''ll speak to boss Wang and tell him about the reason," Jing Jing spoke and quickly dialed the number of boss Wang.

 Chapter 259 - Breakfast Meeting (1)

    "Sister Jing Jing?" the voice of Sofia suddenly sounded before Jing Jing could connect her call to boss Wang''s contact number.


    Jing Jing turned towards her direction and smiled apologetically at her. Despite not waking Sofia up, she was still awakened.


    On the other hand, Stephen walked directly towards Sofia with tenderness on his gaze. He stopped beside her and placed his hands inside the pocket of the coat that he had lent.


    With the two of them standing side by side and with their morning look and messy hair, Jing Jing could not help but feel delighted. ''Awe, they are really a perfect match!'' she thought and waved her hand.


    "Miss Sofia, good morning! Sorry to disturb your rest. There is something that I was confused about but, Stephen had enlightened me already. I will make a call first," Jing Jing quickly explained before she retraced her steps and hastily went out of the apartment unit.


    Sofia looked at the door that was carefully closed by Jing Jing. The lady did not even wait for her to respond. ''Is it something urgent that she quickly went away?'' Sofia questioned in her mind. Then, she turned her head and stared at Stephen, "How do you feel?"


    "Thank you for taking care of me last night, Sof. My fever is gone," Stephen answered with gentle expression on his face.


    "You''re welcome. Steph, bring an umbrella next time. Don''t compromise your health. I''ll go back to my place first to check Heiz. Do you want to come with me?" Sofia said as she remembered the wooden cart. She was worried that it would be disposed of as it was already past 6 AM.


    "Okay," Stephen stated. He took a glance at his three other friends who were still asleep. Clark and Claire were still locked in an embrace giving Joey the space to sprawl his long legs and extend his hands freely. Their blankets had long been pushed on the bottom side of their feet.


    "We should wake them up?" Stephen asked her.


    Sofia curled her lips and looked at her watch, "Later, there is still enough time for them to sleep. We will just check Heiz and return here."


    As the two went out, they saw Jing Jing facing on the wall who was still on her phone call. She was moving her hand comically as if she was lecturing the person on the other line. "What seems to be the problem of sister Jing? She looked annoyed."


    "Ms. Jing Jing mentioned to me about the time interval of publishing the formal announcement about the wedding of Brent. It seems that the media wanted to expose the information at once because of some complaints that were directed towards their company. I''ve told her not to change anything. Then, she seemed to have interpreted what I said in a more useful way," Stephen stated.


    "Ohh, so it''s boss Wang on the other line. Well, no wonder," Sofia nodded her head and remembered how boss Wang had treated Jing Jing. She combed her hair with her fingers as they continued to walk towards her place and entered inside.


    Before they could close the door, Heiz already appeared in their sight, holding her baby.


    "You are back, sister! Good morning!" Heiz said and approached them. She could not help but take a glimpse and the watch on Sofia''s wrist before she looked at Stephen and exchanged hello to him.


    "Hmmn, your cart...?" Sofia trailed and took notice of another plastic bag placed on the side of the sofa.


    "I went down earlier and talked the guard about my cart. I''ve already taken all my merchandise. The cart was on the backside of this building. The guard helped me carry the bag containing the merchandise. I did not know what time you would be coming back so, I just handled them," Heiz prompted and also glance in the direction where Sofia was looking.


    "That''s good," Sofia smiled with satisfaction at her. "This is Stephen," she casually introduced.


    Heiz pulled Sofia closer to her and secretly asked, "Your boyfriend?"


    "Not yet," Sofia softly said with a chuckle and give Stephen a small grin.


    ''Not yet!'' Heiz exclaimed in her mind. Then, she looked at Stephen with bright and clear eyes.


    "I''m Heiz. My baby is named Hazel."


    "Please to meet you, Heiz!"


    Both extended their hands and had a proper handshake. For a minute, Sofia once again looked at the eyes of the two. She could not help but point out their similarities, "You have the same shape of your eyes."


    "Really?" Heiz spoke in a surprised tone. Then, she subconsciously touched the facemask that still covered her face. "By the way, sister, there is a lady who came here too. She was looking for you. The guard called her Miss Jing Jing. Did you meet her?"


    "Hmmn... yes," Sofia confirmed.


    "Is she the manager that you mentioned last night? I did not properly greet her," Heiz worriedly inquired.


    "Yes, sister Jing manages important things for our squad since the beginning," Sofia quickly answered.


    Stephen managed to maintain a friendly smile but did not speak. After a while, he leaned closer to Sofia''s ears and whispered, "Sof, who is she?"


    Such a question was directed towards the complete identity of Heiz, which, Sofia had also a complicated feeling on how to explain their encounter.


    "About that... Let''s talk over breakfast with the others," Sofia whispered back at Stephen. Luckily, they were all together in the same building. It would be easier for her to discuss everything about the planned arrangement of their club. The sooner they could formally talk about forming a club, the better arrangement they would make.


    "Okay," Stephen agreed.


    "Sister Heiz, let''s have breakfast in Claire''s place. Come with us," Sofia stated and took a notebook from her mini table. It was the same notebook that Heiz had read before she fell asleep.


    "Sister, I''ve read the content of your notebook. I never understood what you have written on it," Heiz stated and pointed her index finger at the notebook in Sofia''s hand.


    "It''s alright. I''ve drawn and written our possible gaming strategies in this notebook. Since you don''t play virtual games, it''s understandable that you won''t understand the contents," Sofia sympathized. ''If it was me in the past, I won''t be able to understand the contents either,'' she mentally added thinking about her past life.


    As the three of them walked to return to Claire''s apartment unit, Jing Jing was still stuck in the phone call.


    Sofia raised one of her eyebrows and then went near Jing Jing. "Is that boss Wang, sister Jing? Let me talk to him," she asked.


    Jing Jing quickly handed her phone to Sofia and breathed a sigh of relief. "Boss Wang is so difficult to reason! No matter what I told him, he won''t listen!" she lamented and smiled at two figures behind Sofia.


    "It''s me, Sofia. Boss Wang, what seems to be a problem?" Sofia started. Then, she gestured at the three people who were staring intently at her for them to enter Claire''s place. Then she silently mouthed, "Wake them up." Jing Jing and Stephen nodded but Heiz remained motionless.


    "Heiz, come," Jing Jing called her and she finally moved her feet to follow them.


    "Time to wake up!" Stephen announced and gently kicked the legs Joey. "Time to wake up! We will be late!"


    "Shhh... Stephen, wait," Jing Jing suddenly said and stopped Stephen''s foot from kicking Joey. "Let me borrow your phone to take picture of these two," she mumbled and looked at Claire and Clark.


    "I have no phone with me right now, Ms. Jing Jing," Stephen replied and opened the palms of his hands in front of her.


    "Then, your phone Heiz?" Jing Jing looked towards Heiz.


    "I don''t have any phone either," Heiz softly replied.


    "Ahh! What a pity!" Jing Jing pouted. She wanted to take a picture of Clark and Claire but there was no device available. But, out of her peripheral view, she noticed a phone that was connected to the power source with a charger.


    "That''s Claire''s phone," Stephen stated.


    "Nevermind. Let''s wake them. Hehe," Jing Jing stated and shook the shoulder of Claire.


    "This couple, sorry to disturb you but you will be late for your class. Wake up!" Jing Jing playfully announced.


    Claire was the first to open her eyes and pushed Clark. "Why are you hugging me? Where is the pillow I place between us?"


    "I just sleep," Clark grumbled and felt like he was wronged.


    "AHH... don''t quarrel. The two of you ahh... You have a peaceful sleep locked in an embrace. How could you look upset? I should be the one who is upset here. You have no respect for a single guy like me!" Joey sounded teasing the two.


    "Hmmph!" Claire snorted and stood straight. She glared at Clark and folded her mattress. Joey helped her with the blanket while Clark grabbed his phone and checked his messages.


    "I will contact my driver to order our breakfast meal. Do you guys have preferences?" Clark thoughtfully asked.


    "Right now, I have no cash with me. So, anything is fine," Joey quickly said.


    "Don''t worry about the money," Clark spoke and scrolled down the contact numbers in his phone. "Claire what do you want to eat for breakfast?" he called as the lady had gone to her bedroom to put back her mattress and pillows.


    "Noodles is fine. Spicy," Claire replied from her room.


    "There are  7 of us, Clark. We can split the expenses later," Jing Jing stated.


    "Ahh.... never mind the expenses, I''ll order our breakfast and choose the food," Clark grumbled and texted his driver to buy a double family meal containing from main dish to appetizer and a noodle soup.

 Chapter 260 - Breakfast Meeting (2)

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    Outside, Sofia was allowing the brightness of the sun kiss her face. Jing Jing''s phone was still pressed near her ear as she listened solemnly to boss Wang.


    But after a minute, she moved down the phone and changed the setting of the call. She put their conversation on a loudspeaker...


    "---Sofia, ahh... this announcement will tarnish the reputation of my company! It is better if we release all information at once! I just want to have a good rest now and wake up in peace!"


    "Boss Wang, I suggest you open your email now and see all your unread messages," Sofia changed the topic and instructed the man.


    "WTH! I am already outside my company. Ms. Sofia, you may not be aware but, I am about to go home! How could I check my emails?!" His mood turned really sour after hearing Sofia''s suggestion.


    "If you check your email, you''ll definitely understand why this formal publicity is arranged this way. It''s not too much. Mr. Wang, just walk back to your office and open your computer," Sofia said.


    "I will die of stress!!! You --- young people giving me a headache!" boss Wang yelled. "Wait, I am on my way to my office. Don''t hang up!"


    Sofia indeed waited. She closed her eyes and felt the warmth of the sunrise hitting her face.


    Minutes passed before boss Wang spoke again. "I finally understood! Hahahaha The other media company is sending emails of inquiry about our announcement! They asked if I can share other information with them! Hahahaha,"


    "Yes, no matter what, the announcement is already big..." Sofia stated.


    "Even if it''s big, my company is ridiculed as it is not yet complete! My reputation is at stake! So, I was so anxious and failed to see the greater benefits," Boss Wang repeated his concern.


    "Hmmn... Let me finish first. Mr. Wang, the other local media company must have caught this news and should be interested in the other details too. Those complaints about your reputation might be stirred by them," Sofia spoke with patience. Since the man was operating a top media company, he should have come up a logical reason behind the situation. Who would have thought that he actually still need Sofia to explain the logic for him!?


    "Ohh... Right! Hehehe, My rival companies are purposely creating troubles for me..." Boss Wang trailed and felt a little foolish for panicking.


    "That is normal. Come to think of it, those rival companies of yours cannot interview the bride yet for it is too early and the mayor''s office is still closed. We only leaked the information of the bride so your rivals have nowhere to go. And even if they want to confirm the news to the bride, they would need to make an appointment first. By the time they can secure the appointment, you will announce the identity of the groom. They would be left behind. So, just stick with the plan," Sofia presented.


    "HAHAHA, I see... I see... young lady, your arrangement is indeed brilliant and genius! I did not understand it right away! But now, I know why you have chosen the time intervals of the news. Truly impressive! You choose it to be early so that those rival companies would suffer if they wish to compete with me. Thank you!" Boss Wang finally yielded and praised Sofia''s arrangement. He  finally had a clear understanding of how things would go now and felt assured of the success. He was energized by the unknown sensation and extremely satisfied with Sofia''s arrangement. In fact, by this arrangement, Sofia had paved a smooth path of success for him!


    "No problem. Now, I have to end our conversation. There is also a meeting that I need to attend," Sofia simply responded.


    "Okay, okay, hehehe... good thing I waited for you to talk to me. Otherwise, I may have ruined a great plan!" boss Wang''s bad mood instantly shifted. Now he felt as if he was on cloud nine.


    "Then, before I end this call, I have to remind you that there is no need to talk with me next time. Mr. Wang, just contact with Ms. Jing Jing. She knows what she is doing. Don''t mistreat her otherwise, I won''t be this lenient," Sofia calmly stated. The man quickly agreed and the two bid their goodbyes.


    After ending the call, she saw Clark''s driver carrying 2 food containers on both hands and plastic bags with cups of coffee. The man smiled and slightly bowed his head when he recognized Sofia.


    "Let me help you," Sofia offered and wanted to take one of the food containers. However, the man only shook his head.


    "Miss Sofia, just open the door widely for me. I can carry them," the drivers stated.


    Sofia did not argue and pulled the door open to let the man strode inside.


    "Young master, here are the foods that you have requested. After your breakfast, you must comeback to the mansion," the driver announced.


    "Thank you. Join us too," Clark invited the driver.


    The food was quickly distributed among them. But before they could start putting portion of food on their mouth, Sofia spoke to them, "Let''s maximize our time and discuss something about E-Sports club. Just eat while I tell you our plans."


    After hearing Sofia''s instruction, they started eating while waiting for her to speak.


    "Once we register in the regional tournament, we will be under our own club: The Chronos E-Sports Club. To make it not obvious to our opponents that we are also the club, we will register the acronym of the club. TCESC. Do you have any objections or other suggestions?" Sofia asked and the others were quick to shake their heads.


    "No objections, alright. Then, our club will be managed by sister Jing," Sofia scoped a soup and took a sip before she continued, "Sister Jing is used in frontline, so, she can handle the things that clubs mostly do. She will be our manager. But, we should also cooperate and help her. So far, any objections about the arrangement?" she asked again. And the same response was given to her.


    "Now, I''ve changed my mind. This was not what I have planned last night. But, I think it''s better. Sister Jing will be our external manager. And then, sister Heiz will be our internal manager," Sofia paused again and waited for them to speak their opinions. But, the group continued to eat their meal and only nodded their heads at Sofia.


    "Two managers should be fine. Happy cooperation to you!" Jing Jing spoke and smiled at Heiz.


    "So, let''s formally toast for them," Sofia said and raised her cup of coffee. The others smiled and also followed her gesture until the cups bumped in the air. "Cheers!"


    ''In the past, this cup should be wine glass. And this coffee should be an expensive wine,'' Sofia momentarily stared at the coffee in her hand.


    Then, she looked at  them in their eyes and said, "Although some things are not yet within our capacity, but one day we will replace this cup with wine glass and a bottle of wine instead of coffee. We will have a proper schedule of celebration instead of on the spot meeting over breakfast. But for now, let''s bear with this and still enjoy our bonding!"


    After their toast, the group concentrated on eating their food.. Sofia did not also make other speech as her friends would be late in school if she explained more.


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 Chapter 261 - Conversation About College Plans

    "Our final grading exam is scheduled for the first week of March. I''m not sure but if the regional tournament would also officially start in that period, then, it''s hard to split our time. As early as now, be sure to study your notes during your vacant time in school. Focus on studying so that we can focus on training next week," Sofia reminded her group.


    Claire and Clark nodded their heads lightly. Stephen and Joey slumped their shoulders.


    Jing Jing gave an approving look at Sofia. Surprisingly, with so much going on in their business, the teen could still remind her friends about their school work. "Guys, study well and follow Miss Sofia''s reminders! Time management is very important."


    As for Heiz and Clark''s driver, they concentrated on eating their food and did not pay much attention to the conversation.


    "Mostly, our teachers give pointers before the exam. So, I have no difficulties passing it," Joey said with confidence and nudged Stephen''s shoulder.


    "Sof, don''t worry. Even if we are not the top students in class... our grades are pretty decent. My attendance only drags it down. Sometimes, we also share our answers," Stephen added.


    "Hmmn... What we learn is more important than our scores. The exam results could indeed be tampered with in many ways. Rather than the grading, it is better to focus on gaining knowledge and skills," Sofia stated.


    "That''s right! If you gain knowledge, then, the grades will obviously be good. But if you have good grades without gaining knowledge, it would be hard," Jing Jing supported.


    "Hmmn, After graduating senior high, do you plan to enroll in the same school?" Sofia questioned Stephen and Joey. Although it was still months before graduation, she wanted to know their plans.


    The Seventh District University is the only school in their place. It catered from primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. One can enroll from nursery and graduate until college in the same school. But the courses offered in this university for the tertiary level are limited.


    "I will probably take architectural design. The university in district 6 offers that course and my father had mentioned it to me," Joey started feeling a little bit sad about the idea. "How about you, bro?" he asked Stephen.


    "I''m not sure yet. Any school is fine, I haven''t planned which course to enroll in," Stephen shrugged with an indifferent tone. "If you graduate, what course are you going to take, Sof?"


    "AH! Obviously, it''s business and finance management! Sofia is good in that field! Hehe," Clark said before Sofia could speak her response.


    But Sofia raised one of her eyebrow towards Stephen. "What do you mean ''if''? Do you think I can''t graduate senior high?"


    "No... no... no... it''s a slip of a tongue! I mean once you graduate. Hehe, Sof... you know I have no doubts in your ability!" Stephen quickly corrected with a sheepish look on his face. He even grabbed Sofia''s arms and gently held it.


    "Bro, be careful! Sofia will beat you," Joey laughed at Stephen and patted his shoulder.


    "HAHAHA... Well, I think business courses suits you the most, Sof," Claire only giggled. She knew that Sofia was just teasing Stephen and was not offended by him.


    "Well, if that is the course Sofia will enroll in, I will take that also. We will be in the same department in the college. Or, how about I wait for you to graduate and we can enroll together?" Stephen grinned.


    With Stephen''s silly question, everyone giggled once more. But the man had a serious expression on his face as if he was willing to wait for Sofia to graduate in senior high before he would enroll in college together with her!?


    On the other hand, Sofia was momentarily silent. "What if I don''t go to college and focus on our company?" she suddenly asked Stephen.


    "I will also do the same," Stephen quickly answered and gave Sofia a mischievous wink which made everyone open their mouths for a long time.


    Even Clark''s driver and Heiz momentarily stopped chewing their food and stared at Stephen.


    It was not certain what was more shocking to them: Sofia''s plan of not going to enroll in college or Stephen following whatever Sofia would do.


    In Sofia''s defense, she could build an empire in the corporate world without enrolling to college. After all, not only the knowledge but she also had the experience in her past life. What is there for her to study? Wouldn''t it just be a waste of time for her?


    But then, she adjusted her sitting position and crossed her legs. After careful thought, she said to Stephen, "Maybe we can take a business and finance course together. But there is no need for you to wait, Steph. It''s better to not waste a year."


    She had realized that it would be more suspicious if she won''t enroll in college. If people started questioning her expertise in the field without any proper college education, there would be no excuse left for her to use. No one was born with innate business skills. Hence, pursuing college was more advantageous.


    "Okay," Stephen agreed. "How about the two lovebirds? What are your plans?"


    Claire did not have plans yet. She could only turn towards Clark and stared at him.


    Meanwhile, Clark shook his head too. "I-- m-might proceed... uhmm, my study in a different university. My parents had probably a plan for me and James. I want to be a chef but I''m not sure yet."


    Just like Sofia and Claire, Clark was still in junior high. So, he had not given a thought to his college arrangement. But, his instinct told him that his parents would probably enroll him and his elder brother James in the same university.


    Except for Sofia, everyone suddenly felt uncomfortable. Indeed, the second young master of the respected Zhang family... his parents might already have plans for him to attend a prestigious university.


    After staring at Clark, they could not help but also glance at Stephen... even if Stephen wanted to be with Sofia, would his family not interfere with his decision? It was hard to say. After all, he was also the only heir of the well-known Ching family!


    The two of their friends had a special background. It is expected that their parents would normally want them to keep their social image too and enroll them to a more renowned colleges.


    After a while, Sofia gently smiled at them. "It does not matter which college we will attend. This is in the future. For now, let''s think of the present. I''m just asking your plans randomly."


    "Right, so... well... I---" Claire trailed and then released a sigh. "--Let''s focus on the present."


    "Don''t overthink about your college plans. Even if we will enroll in a separate university, we can still visit and see each other. After all, we shared the same business. You can''t abandon the Chronos company. The five of us, our destiny is already intertwined!" Sofia slightly laughed.


    "That''s right!" Joey clapped and also smiled.


    "AHH!!! Wait.... don''t forget me and Heiz! HAHA" Jing Jing interjected and nudged Heiz arm and everyone finally felt at ease.

 Chapter 262 - The Lee Family Residence

    Mansion of the Lee Family


    "This news did not include our family. That young girl seems considerate and had changed her mind to use our status," Brent''s father said to his son. The two of them were seated on a wooden chair in their gazebo, surrounded by water. Below them were Koi fishes waddling its tail and swimming around the pond. The father and son were enjoying their morning tea and the scenic sunrise on the horizon.


    "Pa, Sofia had arranged the news. She purposely concealed most of the information. But the press will announce my identity later. According to her, it''s like a marketing strategy," Brent spoke calmly. Then, he continued to explain all the arrangements that Sofia had told him.


    "I see. That''s an impressive strategy. But, no matter what, she is using our family status to gain advantages of her business. Who would have thought that someone is actually too guts to use our prestige?" Brent''s father said in a cold tone. He then stir the water inside his teacup and took a sip on it.


    "Sofia is a close friend of mine, pa. I don''t think her action would have a negative effect on our family business. She just needs my support," Brent defended.


    "Hmmph! I''ve investigated the new business that she is conducting. The location and nature of the business are really good. Is it coincidental? Perhaps, someone is behind her and is using her to make trouble for us," the man could not help but warn his son.


    Brent shook his head and firmly said, "I don''t think so. From my observation, Sofia has her principles. She does not want to cause troubles."


    "Oh? Listen, son, we have been the richest family in district 7 but, our family may lose our social standing against her business. I hope I am wrong. But the location of her business is really auspicious. And with the cost that we paid for the venue of your wedding, it will attract wealthy clients and famous customers," Brent''s father stated with a sigh.


    "Father, you may not know this but, Sofia and I had spent our time together in the past. We played games almost every day. Those times when we complete difficult quests in the game were one of the happiest moments in my teenage life. It''s still fresh in my memories. Although we have drifted and established our squad separately, I know she won''t do harm to our family," Brent responded with a melancholic tone. He pursed his lips and continued, "I''ve taken advantage of her gaming knowledge in the past. I have learned to play online games because of her. If she can take advantage of our family status for her business, as the young master of the Lee family, I won''t mind."


    Upon hearing his son''s tone, Brent''s father looked away. His hands slightly trembled, and he slowly clenched them to form a fist.


    This was the first time he had heard his son expressing his sentimental side. The young man had been known to the public to have an aloof and distant personality. Even his sister was not that close to him.


    "Son, why do you put so much importance in gaming to the point that you would cherish someone just because you have played games with her in the past? The virtual world and the real world are completely different! Are you confused?" his father could not help but ask.


    Brent looked down and observed the Koi fish swimming near them. For a moment, he deliberated what to say. In the end, he only smiled at his father.


    Would his father understand his sentiments about gaming? The answer was clear. No. Only those who had the same experience in gaming could understand his emotions.


    "Are you confused?" Brent''s father repeated. Although his face looked calm, his tone sounded agitated.


    Brent sighed and secretly wished his father would not pursue his question. He slowly moved his cup of tea and looked at his father in the eyes. "Pa, why do you mind this trivial thing? As far as I could remember, our family never cared about our social image before. We even hide from the public and stayed low-key. But now, you are actually worried about these things!"


    "T-that..." his father pressed his hands together and furrowed his brows. "Son, in the past, I don''t see anyone in this district that could compete our Lee family. This is why I never cared about others. But now, my instinct says different."


    "Sofia is just starting her business. I am her friend, so, I should support her. She did not even start operating it yet. What is there for us to be scared of? There is still a long way for her to surpass us," Brent easily spoke with no trace of emotion on his face. He finished his tea and silently placed the cup on the table.


    Brent''s father took a deep breath and closed his eyes. He slowly massaged the back of his neck and stood from his seat. The man walked towards the edged of the gazebo and looked at the fishes.


    After a few seconds, he finally spoke, "Do you really think a mere teenager is capable of planning and pulling out these stunts? I have never forgotten her personality. Ahh... the way she acted when she spoke to me during your wedding rehearsal... it''s as if she could control everything in the palm of her hand. Brent, for some reason, I could sense something terrifying in your friend. I just know what it is."


    "Pa, you are overthinking," Brent said and also left his seat. Then, he went to the side and took a container of fish food, and stood next to his father. "Let me handle our family affairs. You just relax. Here," he said and gave the contained of fish food to his father.


    "I think---" Brent''s father paused. He found it hard to describe what he really think of Sofia. His hand tapped the cap of the fish food container and sighed once more.


    "Pa! Stop worrying! It''s not good for your health," Brent grumbled.


    "I''m not really worried about our business. I know you are capable, son. I just regretted that I kept on asking you to get married and give me grandchildren. If I did not pester you, maybe, you won''t take a politician''s daughter as a bride. I never wished for our family to be involved in politics," Brent''s father said and his expression looked gloomy.


    "Ehem! Actually, Grace is likable. Even if you don''t ask me to settle down and find a wife, I will still marry her. Pa, don''t blame yourself. It''s my choice. I am not forced to do this wedding. Don''t look down on your future daughter-in-law," Brent stated with a gentle smile on his face.


    "AHH!!! Son, could it be--- could it be that you are in love with her?" his father gave him a suspicious look.


    Brent chuckled and started walking away, or rather escaping from his father''s personal query. "Pa, it''s time for me to go. I have several documents to sign in our company. See you later!"


    "Hey! Wait---" Brent''s father quickly placed the fish food container. He wanted to follow his son but the young man was quick to run away.


    "What happened to you?" Brent''s mother suddenly appeared with confusion on her face.


    "Our son... Our son---" the old man pointed the direction where Brent escaped.


    "I saw Brent go inside the mansion on my way here. His face seemed a bit red. I asked him if he had suffered an allergy but he only greeted me and ignored my question! What is happening? Old Lee, you better tell me!" the woman demanded. She crossed her hands on her chest and gave her husband a condescending look.


    "HAHAHA... really? Then, if his face is red... Ahem! Hahaha..." his words were swallowed by his laughter.


    Seeing that her husband was wildly laughing without knowing any reason, Mrs. Lee kicked the man on his knees. "What are you so happy?! Finish your sentence before you laugh! Hmmph! I have heard the news about the wedding but only the information about the bride was announced. I am not happy!"


    "Ahh... my dear wife... I am just overjoyed. Today is actually a great day! Don''t mind that news. We should make preparations," Mr. Lee said and quickly went to the side of his wife. He gently rubbed her shoulder to coax her. "Let''s eat breakfast. I will tell you everything."


    The man guided his wife inside the mansion. Seeing the affection of Mr. Lee for his wife, the servants that were cleaning their residence smiled and giggled at each other.


    "Why is Brent not here?" Mrs. Lee frowned after they were settled at their dining table. She was glaring at her husband but the old man pretended not to see her anger.


    "Madam, the young master had left," one of the servants who were arranging the food quickly reported.


    "He went early in the company? He should eat his breakfast with us! After he gets married, who knows how long he will eat at this dining table again," Mrs. Lee pouted.


    "My wife, don''t be sad! No need to spoil this day with such negative thoughts. I have something to tell you," Mr. Lee grinned at his wife and before long, he immediately told her all his earlier conversation with their son.


    "If that''s the case, then... We have to make sure that this wedding is perfect for our son! Husband, be sure to monitor the organizers of the wedding, okay?" Mrs. Lee finally smiled.


    Mr. Lee nodded his head repeatedly.. "I will. I will!"

 Chapter 263 - Main Dish In Talks

    Waking up with such a piece of big news, the citizens in District 7 continued to chatter about their speculations around with so much enthusiasm. Whether they meet a stranger on the sidewalk or the vendors in the market, everyone was so hyped.


    "Lady Grace is really going to tie a knot? Who could really be the lucky man who won her heart?"


    "Do you think the groom is a commoner or a rich boy?"


    "I think it should be from a rich family!"


    Because the information is still incomplete, the people could not help but start spreading rumors. Soon after, gossiping became the main activity within the neighborhood and along the streets.


    The other media company quickly dispatched crews to check the information. They started to flock to the District Hall to schedule an interview with the mayor. Since the building is still close, the crews could only stay on stand-by and wait for the staff to let them in.


    They wanted to get full coverage about the wedding and their patience was running thin...


    "I am the first one to arrive here. I should be the first to have an interview!"


    "Well, you have no appointment yet! Our boss already called the secretary of the mayor to arrange our interview! So, my team should go in first!"


    "EH!! Stop your nonsense and keep quiet! I just woke up and need to write down my interview questions!"


    "Bro, whoever tipped Mr. Wang about this wedding is making me crazy!"


    "But that stupid Wang actually leaked the information quickly to the public without taking into consideration all details. He really is getting rusty in our field!" one of the reporters spoke to his companion with obvious ridicule in his tone.


    "That''s right! Soon, we can use him as a stepping stone to gain many audiences! Then, we will become trending and surpass his company!" his companion replied.


    "If it was me who was tipped, I would make sure to complete the information before publishing such news! Look! Have you seen any crew from his company? They could not even compete with us to ask for an interview in here!" a staff from a different company joined their conversation.


    All the crew outside the building was still laughing and mocking boss Wang. By the time they were given access to enter the building, they quickly fell line for an interview.


    However, the procedure of going in and out of the mayor''s office required several procedures. They needed to write their names on the visitor''s logbooks. The time they arrived and the time they would finish must be registered in the logbook for security reasons.


    "Mayor, there are too many reporters. What should I do?" the mayor''s secretary asked worriedly when the guard informed her about the reporters.


    "Let my daughter handle them. Remember not to offend anyone," the mayor simply answered and glanced at Grace. "Are you ready?"


    "As the mayor''s daughter and the bride, I am prepared! Dad, Sofia chatted with me last night and she advised me to anticipate such visitors," Grace calmly spoke.


    "Speaking of Sofia, I must contact her to express my gratitude! Grace, don''t worry about them! Give me the contact number of Sofia," the mayor said and then took out his phone from his pocket.


    "Dad, it''s fine. Sofia said she is playing games and it would disrupt her if there is an incoming call. Don''t disturb her," Grace slowly stated.


    "Why can''t she pause the game if there is an incoming call?" the mayor stated.


    "She mentioned last time that the game cannot be paused. Alright, I''ll move to the side," Grace answered and took a few steps. She stood near the door of the office with two bodyguards on her side.


    "Lady Grace, if someone will harass you the bodyguards will not hesitate to throw them out of the building," the mayor''s secretary stated.


    "Secretary Clar, don''t worry. Just do your task. I will take care of the reporters," Grace stated.


    After several minutes, a wave of reporters was marching towards her. Grace maintained a sweet smile on her face while looking at them.


    "AHH... they are here! Lady Grace, be careful!" the secretary stated before she took a sit and looked at the stack of folders on her desk.


    "Ms. Grace! Ms. Grace! We need to clarify the details about the news!" one of the reporters instantly called after spotting Grace.


    "Please allow us to have a brief interview, Ms. Grace!" the others followed in haste.


    ''These reporters were too eager to hear everything about my wedding that they even forgot to congratulate me,'' Grace secretly thought while listening to the ruckus.


    As for the ordinary citizens, they have already considered the first news as the main dish of their talk.


    And just as they thought that they have heard the big news, another breaking news on television made everyone dumbfounded...


    It was from the segment of their local TV channel that usually appears after a few commercials. Usually, only seniors in the district would pay attention to such segments. And the content of this news was mostly about sports.


    However, when the local newscaster announced the headlines of this breaking news, everyone shifted their attention to their TV screen and listened to the newscaster.


    "When Power Unites Authority! The groom is no other than the young master of the Lee Family!"


    In the hallway of the mayor''s office, those reporters who were asking Grace for an interview quickly turned their heads to the small television in the hallway. They came early and waited patiently to have an interview with the bride.


    However, the details that they wanted to ask the bride were now announced on television! It only means that someone is playing innocent and was playing them!


    "Wait! Why is it that it''s a report from boss Wang''s crew again? He actually knows the details! Did we come here for nothing?!"


    "It seems like that old fox was just toying us! How crafty!"


    Before Grace could speak a word, the reporters had already lost their confidence. Soon, they took the initiative to drag their feet out of the building and did not bother to continue with the interview.


    Or to be exact, they are afraid to make the mistake of the news that they were quick to withdraw. Lest the Lee family will make their companies bankrupt.


    The lady could only see the dejected reporters walking away.


    When silence was resumed outside the mayor''s office, the mayor looked up at her daughter. He gave a questioning look at the empty hallway. "What happened, Grace? Where are they?"


    "Dad, the reporters left on their own will. The second news is already out and they saw it on television," Grace softly replied and sat.


    "That is the power of the Lee family. Hehe, daughter be sure to treat your husband well, okay?" the mayor emphasized.


    "Dad, we can''t take advantage of the Lee family during your official political campaign period. I might not be here to help your campaign at that time," Grace sighed.


    "Don''t worry. Even if the Lee family avoided the issues about politics, they value family relationships. You will be part of their family. I don''t think they will not help me in my campaign," the mayor shook his head and a small smile appear on his face.


    Grace did not argue with her father. She started typing in her phone and sent a good morning message to Brent.


    With the second news, the earlier complaints against boss Wang were quickly buried by the tremendous reactions of the citizens.


    Some young adults who dreamed to date the young master of the Lee family screamed at the top of their lungs.


    "IT''S OUR HANDSOME PRINCE BRENT? IS THIS FOR REAL???!!"


    "I DON''T BELIEVE THIS! ARE THEY EVEN A COUPLE?"


    "MY FIRST LOVE IS GETTING MARRIED!? NO! NO! NOOOO!!!"


    Meanwhile, those who were alone in their apartments could only mumble their sorrow.


    "I hope this is fake news! Huhuhu!"


    "I don''t know how to take this news!"


    The faculty members and students had just entered the school ground but they were like bees whispering and murmuring about the details of the second news.


    Perhaps, only the members of the Chronos squad were not affected by any news. Joey and Stephen sat on the bench near a large tree. They were waiting for Claire and Clark. After their breakfast, the four of them agreed to meet up in the location.


    "Most students are so energetic! The school ground is too noisy!" Stephen groaned. He looked at Joey and realized that the man was not paying attention to him. Joey was waving to a group of girls that were walking to a different building.


    "Who are those girls?" Stephen asked while poking Joey''s shoulder.


    "Who else but my fans!" Joey proudly answered.


    "Fans?" Stephen winced and shook his head. "You did not even wake up last night. How can you dream of having them as fans?!"


    "Tsk! Don''t bother me. Listen to the other students," Joey said and turned his back.


    "What is there to listen? They are just overreacting towards Brent''s wedding!" Stephen whispered.


    "Not only it was hard for those students to believe the identity of the groom, they felt like they were experiencing a breakup from their unrequited love towards the young master of the Lee family. Hehe," Joey chuckled.


    In any case, this identified groom really held a perfect image in their society that made girls dream of him.


    He is rich, tall, handsome, and the squad leader of the wealthy pro team. Nobody saw him interact intimately with any girls. No paparazzi also dared to slander or offend him.. So, nothing could prepare those secret admirers from the news.

 Chapter 264 - Company Books Of Accounts

    In Sofia''s place, Heiz and Jing Jing were casually chatting about random things. But most of the time, it was Jing Jing who would take the initiative to open a topic of their discussion.


    Sofia left them with an excuse that she would need to buy notebooks. While waiting for her, Jing Jing took her time to narrate all of her observations to the Chronos squad members and their plans.


    "May I ask a private question?" Heiz suddenly asked after listening to Jing Jing for half an hour. She gently lifted her baby and positioned the delicate body on the mattress that was still on the floor.


    Jing Jing nodded her head and replied, "Sure! What do you want to ask?"


    Heiz hesitated for a moment. "I''m just curious... who is helping Sofia to begin her business and assemble the Chronos squad?"


    "No one! But I did process all her bank accounts and transactions to buy the property. It''s under my name but I have a contract with Sofia that she would pay me with the company share. Let me tell you a secret, Heiz. The moment I saw Sofia, I don''t know why but, I completely believe in her ability," Jing Jing confidently answered.


    "You mean no one is directing her?" Heiz probed again.


    "No, no, no," Jing Jing waved her hand several times. "I was with Miss Sofia all this time. All the decisions of starting a business come from her own accord. She just encouraged the other Chronos members to spend their prize money in accordance with her plan."


    "Ohh," Heiz slightly nodded her head and became deeply quiet again.


    Jing Jing mentally made a face palm as the silence enveloped them once more. This kind of silence was totally natural for they just met however, she still felt it was unbearable. She cleared her throat and tried to open another topic of their conversation. However, the door was pushed open and Sofia entered with several large notebooks in her hand.


    "Miss Sofia, those notebooks are bigger than most students used. What are those for?" Jing Jing started and gestured to take the notebooks. Then, she flipped it open and frowned. The pages contained lines and columns that formed into a table. Aside from the page, there were numbers on the left side that were printed in sequence.


    Jing Jing continued to flip the pages of the notebook and found out that all pages have identical prints.


    "This notebook is weird. Do you have a school project that requires you to use this kind of notebook?" she could not help but mumble before returning the notebook to Sofia.


    "Sister Jing, is this your first time seeing this kind of notebook?" Sofia inquired and place the notebooks on the mini table.


    "It is. What are they for?" Jing Jing curiously pointed it.


    "It''s usually for accounting. We will use this notebook to list all our transactions to monitor the flow of our capital and profit. Sister Heiz, I will entrust you for this matter," Sofia said.


    "Okay. But, you have to tell me how to do it," Heiz stated and took one notebook and opened it. "It looks complicated."


    "Only at first, it is complicated. But, once you get used to it, it will be easy. Here," Sofia said and started explaining how to enter data in the notebook.


    "What if we don''t record?" Jing Jing asked after listening to Sofia''s explanation.


    "No, it''s mandatory to do this for the transparency of our money. And the tax bureau would also require us to have this. Without this, we will be penalized. Normally, this is a work of an accredited accountant. But, our business is still small. For now, we can do it on our own. Once we expand, we can hire an expert to do this," Sofia said. She suddenly remembered that in the past, she would only need to read and sign for approval the report of their company treasurer and auditor when it comes to company accounts. Now, she had to be hands-on with these things.


    "Ohh... so, having a business is actually a lot of work. I thought we will just manage the capital and profits," Jing Jing whispered.


    "Hehe, sister Jing, it''s manageable," Sofia smiled at her before she turned towards Heiz. "I will help you, sister Heiz with these records. The company is not that big yet. So, it''s not hard to record our expenses and income. Actually, this is very important. Make sure that all data are correct."


    "Okay, I will try!" Heiz said. "When do I start putting data in this notebook?"


    "On Saturday. We have to ask the bureau to stamp this notebook first. Without their signature on the first page, the notebook is not useful. Sister Jing, go with me?"


    "Sure! Hehe, My previous job is not related to accounting. So, I am not familiar with these kinds of  notebooks. I can only help you get it stamped," Jing Jing agreed.


    "Then, sister Heiz, we will leave you first. Here is my phone, you can look at some videos online to have an idea of how to put data in this notebook," Sofia said and gave Heiz her phone.


    "Miss Sofia, just use my phone for Heiz. Just in case you need to answer emails on our way to the bureau," Jing Jing immediately pushed back Sofia''s phone and gave hers to Heiz.


    "O-okay. Let''s go," Sofia said and waved goodbye to Heiz.


    After they stepped outside her apartment, Jing Jing placed a hand on Sofia''s shoulder. "Miss Sofia, please don''t be so trusting! Your phone contains confidential information. What if Heiz will read it?"


    "Sister Jing, Heiz has nothing but her baby. There is no reason for her to betray us," Sofia defended.


    "That is exactly the reason why you must not trust her easily. She has only her baby. If someone bribes her money to harm us, she would definitely agree! Remember, you are also a public figure now. If she read some information about the Chronos squad, I''m worried if she leaked it to the public," Jing Jing spoke anxiously.


    Sofia pondered her behavior and also realized that she really trusted Heiz without reservation. This kind of inclination was new to her. "I don''t know why I feel familiar with Heiz. There is something in her that I could not describe." Sofia said while staring at her wristwatch.


    "Maybe you feel sympathetic because of her situation. But, please, don''t trust other people easily," Jing Jing said in a serious tone.


    Sofia curled her lips and combed her hair. "Yes, thank you for your reminder, sister Jing! However, I have already decided for sister Heiz to handle our company accounts. Such data is also confidential."


    "Don''t mention it. In any case, it''s not your personal phone!" Jing Jing pouted.


    Not long after, they drove towards the south road and arrived at the office of the tax bureau. Sofia only knew that the notebooks requires a stamp from the office. But, she had never done this kind of work.


    The two of them stood a few meters away from the entrance and read all the signs that were plastered in the wall.


    "Miss Sofia, where should we go? There are so many counters here," Jing Jing said while observing the place. It was her first time to step foot in such a place too.


    "I''m not sure which counter is for business. Let''s ask the security guard. Hehe," Sofia slightly laughed at amusement. Her new life was indeed more interesting than the past.


    "I will ask him," Jing Jing initiated while looking at the security guard at the entrance door. Then, the two of them stepped forward and approached the man. "Hello, chief! May I ask you to guide us where to get a stamp for these notebooks?"


    The guard looked at the notebook and then pointed at the last counter. "Ma''am, go to that desk. There are two stamps there. One is for the registration of information. The other is for the ''received'' stamp. The front page of your notebook must be stamped. Fill-out the form there. Then, get a priority number."


    "Thank you," Sofia and Jing Jing expressed and followed the instructions of the guard.


    When their priority number was called, the two of them also approached the bureau official together. Jing Jing stood behind Sofia. The man was in his early thirties and had an approachable expression on his face.


    "Good morning! Are you authorized? We require a special power of attorney," the officer asked Sofia after she passed the notebooks to him.


    Jing Jing frowned and whispered at Sofia, "Why is he asking for SPA, Miss Sofia?"


    "Don''t worry, sister Jing. He may have misunderstood us," Sofia whispered back.


    "Good morning! This is for our business," Sofia answered. At first, she was also slightly confused when the officer asked her if she was authorized. But when the man asked them for special power of attorney, she quickly understood that the man must have assumed that they were representatives.


    In any case, special power of attorney is a notarized legal document that representatives must present to the officer as proof that they were authorized by the business owner for the transaction.


    Upon hearing Sofia''s response, the man looked startled and eyed Sofia suspiciously. "May I borrow your ID?"


    Sofia nodded her head. She took a step aside and signaled Jing Jing to step forward.


    "Here, officer," Jing Jing quickly gave her ID.


    "Okay," the officer said and started typing in his keyboard. After a few seconds, he signed the notebooks and gestured for them to leave.


    "That''s it?" Jing Jing asked.


    "Yes.. They only need to register these notebooks," Sofia easily said as they went out of the office.

 Chapter 265 - Coincidental Encounter With The Academia Representative

    "It''s so hot! I''ll get the car. Just wait for me here, Miss Sofia," Jing Jing attentively said as she looked at the sky. The sun was blazing and none of them brought an umbrella. Without waiting for Sofia''s response, she hastily  dashed towards the parking area.


    Sofia could only watch Jing Jing''s back and shook her head. The original Sofia was raised in the mountains of District 7. This hot weather should be nothing to her.


    While watching Jing Jing''s figure, a group of five male students suddenly appeared from the other side. Sofia did not notice nor paid attention to them. She looked at her emails and read some messages.


    Supposedly, the teens would go in the other direction. However, they halted their steps when they recognized Sofia.


    They actually snickered at the sight of the lady. And somehow, they maliciously laughed and decided to walk in Sofia''s direction.


    "Yo! Isn''t this the squad leader whose squad became the champion of the district tournament? Hehehe... Girl, what are you doing here?" one of the students started. His other members quickly surrounded Sofia.


    Sofia turned towards the boy and could not help but wonder, ''Huh? They should have classes at this hour. What are they doing here in the bureau?''


    It was clear that both of them have the same question in their head but with different assumptions.


    At one glance she could easily tell that the boy was the leader of the group. He had the air of arrogance than the others, But, as she examined their faces closely, none of them were familiar to her. Only that, they were wearing school uniforms of her school.


    "You are right. I am the squad leader of the Chronos squad," Sofia confirmed to the boy in response to his first statement.


    "Hehehe, I did recognize you correctly. The tank user called CEO UNRIVALED. Hmmn," the boy smirked and glanced at his members. All of them exchange a look that hinted trouble.


    "What are you standing here?" the tallest boy among the group questioned. With his height towering over her, Sofia tilted her head and maintained a calm composure as she looked at the boy in the eye.


    "I''m doing some errands here," Sofia briefly said with no trace of emotion on her face. She wanted to return the question and ask the group why they were there. However, she sensed a glint of malice in their expressions, thus, she did not want to prolong their conversation.


    Since they had recognized her, the group was undeniably gamers too. But, she has no time to entertain them.


    "Doing errands?! And what errands would that be?" another member inquired with a nasty smirk plastered on his lips.


    "Could it be that you are here to apply for sponsorship?" the leader of the group consequently asked before Sofia could speak a word.


    ''What sponsorship?'' Sofia looked at the ground and pondered their questions. She had no idea what they were talking about. She was there for her business, not to seek sponsorship!


    But, as she raised her head and looked around, another office caught her peripheral view - ACADEMIA BUILDING. The building was just several meters away from where she stood.


    ''Ahhh, so that is what they mean. I did not expect that the bureau and the academia is built in the same street,'' Sofia secretly thought and roughly comprehended what the group was up to.


    "You mean, the sponsorship from the academia?" Sofia questioned the leader. It was just her presumption that since she rejected the offer to represent the academia, the organization must have done some propaganda to recruit gamers to play under them.


    "She is really here to compete with the sponsorship! HAHAHA... Too bad for you, we already got it. You are already late! We will represent the academia," the leader proudly said. He even exchanged fist bumps with his members.


    "Yes! Too late! Well, the victory of your squad in the last tournament looked like it was pure beginner''s luck. For the next tournament, who knows if you have a chance to even play as participants? Your squad hasn''t registered yet, right?" the tallest member stated once more with an obvious mockery in his voice.


    ''Well, well, well...'' Sofia scratched the back of her neck. ''These teens are surely energetic!'' she inwardly commented while gazing at the group.


    For a long time, she just observed their expressions and did not say a word.


    "Why are you silent? Ohh... I know! Are you sad that your squad did not get the chance to get the sponsorship? Hehehe, that''s understandable. Your beginner''s luck must have run out! You must be disappointed now! HAHAHA..." the leader continued and peals of laughter from his members followed.


    Sofia calmly looked at them and the people around. Surely, some passerby began to listen to their interaction. After their laughter subsided, she finally said, "Ehem! Congratulations on getting the sponsorship of the academia! Hope to see you on the battlefield. Good luck!"


    "What did you say? Hope to see me on the battlefield? Hah! You can only daydream of that! I don''t think your squad will even step in the elimination round," the leader spoke coldly. His face turned serious as if Sofia''s carefree reaction had badly irritated him.


    "Ohh, well, you are partly right. We won''t step into the elimination round," Sofia agreed with a respectful tone in her voice.


    "Of course, I know that you have no chance! After all, a victory out of luck does not last long! Gaming requires real skills and strategies!" the leader stated with full of enthusiasm.


    Sofia smiled and softly said, "Indeed! Gaming requires real skills and strategies. Ah... But, your assumption is somehow incorrect. My squad will be in the official professional match. If you guys could manage to win the elimination round, which, I hope you will... then, we will surely meet on the battlefield."


    Since the organizers of the upcoming tournament had already sent Sofia an official invitation to participate, it would allow her squad to have a direct opportunity to play against other pro players. There would be no need for them to compete in the elimination round. As long as they accept the invitation, their participation was already arranged.


    "Wow! Girl, you sure like to daydream," the leader chuckled and waited for Sofia to speak up. He thought that the lady was just speaking empty words. However, his provocations did not even affect her, even a little. She just give them a nod and looked towards Jing Jing.


    The car stopped just a few steps away from her. Sofia quickly hopped inside and left the group without giving further explanation.


    "Where are you going? Are you nervous that you become speechless?" the leader of the group called after realizing that Sofia did not intend to continue talking with them.


    "I still have important matters to attend. Good luck again," Sofia told them before she pressed the button on the side of the car door, rolling the window up.


    "Are they your classmates that are engaging in business too?" Jing Jing asked while her hands rotated the steering wheel. She looked at the reflection of the teens in the side mirror for a moment before shifting her attention to the road. She pressed his foot at the gas pedal and the vehicle turned towards the main road.


    "No, they are not my classmates. Those students came from the other building, not the bureau," Sofia softly replied and placed her phone back in her pocket.


    "They seemed irritated? What happened?" Jing Jing curiously inquired.


    "I don''t know. They wanted to have a nasty conversation maybe?" Sofia slightly giggled while remembering the faces of the group.


    "Nasty conversation? I thought they are your fans," Jing Jing commented with a small smile on her lips.


    "They are not my fans. They said our victory in the last tournament was just a beginner''s luck," Sofia whispered.


    "Bullsh*t! What nonsense. How could it be a beginner''s luck? Your performance last tournament was totally great," Jing Jing quickly complimented.


    "They just want to brag with their accomplishment. According to them, their squad will be representing the academia department in the next tournament. The organization was probably giving them sponsorship. They thought I was there to apply for the sponsorship too. Hehe, actually, the director of the Academia had offered me and Claire to play under them first. But, I refused him," Sofia summarized.


    "So, those boys are bragging for nothing?! Hahaha. But, I wonder why you refused such opportunity?" Jing Jing giggled.


    "Hmmn. If I agree to play under the organization, I''m afraid that they will substitute Clark. I want the five of us to play and win together," Sofia gently smiled.


    "Clark is improving. But, his gameplay really needs his teammates to adjust with his pace," Jing Jing nodded in understanding.


    "If Clark will be substituted, Claire would surely protest. It will cause conflict," Sofia expressed and suddenly imagined Claire''s reaction if such a thing would happen.


    "Haha, I agree," Jing Jing responded. "So, this is one of the reasons why we will register our own club, right? You don''t want any members to be substituted by other players?"


    "Yes. There is always someone better than us. And the clubs would usually group the experts separately to join a formidable team. Our greatest advantage is not just in the individual skills. It is our coordination and team play. Also... at least, if we are in our own club, we are free to do what we want to do.. This way, it''s easier to manage our time," Sofia casually answered.

 Chapter 266 - Squad Endorsement Offer (1)

    Just then, Sofia''s phone vibrated in her pocket. She quickly took it out and looked at the screen, there was an incoming call from boss Wang.


    Without any hesitation, her thumb slides on the accept button to answer the call. She moved her device near her right ear and calmly spoke, "Mr. Wang, it''s me. Is there a problem with the second announcement?"


    Her question was direct. Since the man had called her earlier, she assumed that he might have a different complaint this time. Somehow, the thought of boss Wang fussing over a simple matter gives her a headache.


    Jing Jing give a glance at her but Sofia was already looking at the other side. She was staring at the people walking on the road while listening to the other line.


    "No, the announcement was a success! Hehehe. Thanks to you, Miss Sofia!" boss Wang started.


    "That''s good!" Sofia briefly said. Hearing the man''s tone, Sofia could tell that he was really overjoyed. But, she could not help but wonder what is the reason for his call?


    "Ahh... Miss Sofia, look at your jinx employee. She actually dared to leave her phone. I was calling her several times but a different person answered my call. I have no choice but to call you!" Boss Wang still complained. But this time, Jing Jing was his target.


    Sofia looked at Jing Jing and slightly chuckled, "Mr. Wang, it was me who asked sister Jing to leave her phone.  May I ask the urgency of your call?"


    Jing Jing''s phone was left in the hands of Heiz. In Sofia''s mind, boss Wang had already felt a deep enmity of Jing Jing. Even if she demanded for him to treat Jing Jing right, she did not expect the man would actually contact Jing Jing.


    "O-oh... well, it''s indeed urgent. I am calling you to confirm about an endorsement. Are you interested?" Boss Wang answered.


    "Hmm. Please tell me more about the endorsement, Mr. Wang. I want to know the details of the endorsement before I will confirm," Sofia firmly spoke.


    "Of course! After being your exclusive press, I have already understood how you do things! I will tell you the details," Boss Wang paused for a few seconds. Sofia did not speak anything too and just waiting for him to spill the information...


    "There is a shoe brand here that is looking for teenage models for their teen creations. Because of the wedding publicity, most of the companies also offered me to do promotions and endorsements. I have really benefited from your arrangement, Miss Sofia. And I think that your group should be perfect for this brand. The photo shoot is tomorrow," Boss Wang stated with ease.


    "A shoe brand is indeed good to endorse. However, we may not be able to make it tomorrow. What time is the shooting, Mr. Wang?" Sofia asked.


    "The time?! Wait, I will ask Rica for the exact time. Hang on," Boss Wang said and there were incoherent noises followed on their line. After a while, boss Wang resumed, "Hello, Miss Sofia, the schedule is not yet fixed. If you want, we can suggest a schedule to do the shooting!"


    "Really? With this flexible schedule, perhaps, we can make it. Mr. Wang, how much is the pay to endorse the brand? I hope to get monetary earnings from it," Sofia asked. She had to emphasize that she needed cash as there would be a possibility that the brand would exchange their products as payments. In her situation right now, earning cash is preferable.


    "HAHAHA... Ms. Sofia, you don''t really shy on your demands!" Boss Wang exclaimed. "I have handled many endorsements but it is my first time to encounter someone who would directly request for cash payment!"


    "Hehehe... Don''t misunderstand me, Mr. Wang. Getting products from the brand is also great. I do not look down on brand deals. But I really need cash as of this time. There is something that I need to pay," Sofia chuckled. In reality, she was thinking of the salary of the people that she had employed. The Chronos company has almost 50 employees including her squad members. The manpower is really high and they haven''t even started their business! If she had no cash to invest more in her company, she would struggle to keep her employees.


    "You are really straight to the point when it comes to earning money. If you need money, then, we shall tell them what you want. I will talk to their representative first. I''ll talk to you later," Boss Wang stated and their line was abruptly disconnected.


    In the office of Boss Wang, there were two women who were listening to their entire conversation. The women looked almost the same age as Jing Jing. They sat across the table with their arms folded on their chests. The man had actually placed Sofia on a loudspeaker as he spoke with her! He did not need to tell them. They were listening!


    After disconnecting the call, boss Wang looked at the two women. "You have heard it. This teen is trending on social media and all her squad members are famous too. Even if they are not a celebrity, I can guarantee you a good increase in sales. This is why I recommend them to you!"


    One of the women sighed and replied, "This girl is asking for cash. Then, we can edit the contract draft and give her the cash."


    "Great! I will tell her that!" Boss Wang excitedly stood from his seat and dialed Sofia''s contact number again. One of the women quickly opened her laptop and edited the payment clauses of the contract.


    After the call was answered, he quickly informed Sofia. "No problem with the cash! Miss Sofia, the representative of this shoe company will pay cash!"


    Boss Wang''s voice had become in a high pitch out of excitement. With his volume, Sofia creased her eyebrows. After she placed her phone near her ear for the second time, she had winced at his voice and moved the phone a few inches away from her face.


    "Mr. Wang, I have one more thing that I need to verify. May I ask the target sales of this endorsement?" Sofia questioned.


    The women who heard her question could not help but ask in their thoughts, ''Target sales? Is this girl an aspiring model or an advertising manager?'' They wanted to ask boss Wang and clarify about who the man was talking with. But, after much thought, they just swallowed their curiosity.


    "Ms. Sofia, about the target sales, you can see it for yourself! I will send you the draft contract for this endorsement project for you to check. The payment details are already in the file too. Call me back after you examined it. Okay?" Boss Wang replied.


    "Okay, thank you! Mr. Wang, I will call you back after five minutes," Sofia stated and quickly ended the call.


    "Boss Wang called?" Jing Jing asked while Sofia was opening her email to check the file.


    "There is an endorsement offer from a shoe brand that he wanted to give to us," Sofia smiled.


    "Wow! That''s cool!" Jing Jing excitedly said.


    "But the photo shoot is already tomorrow. And we already scheduled our soft opening in our business tomorrow. And the organizers of the wedding would make necessary arrangements and decorations in our place. I have to check first if the money is worth it to spend extra time for this," Sofia said.


    "Mostly, the companies are looking for fresh faces because they have low labor costs compared to the famous people," Jing Jing commented.


    "If those companies are on a budget, they had no choice but to compromise. Still, if they choose fresh faces, they have to make sure that it is sellable. The question is, will their customers be even interested in buying a product that is endorsed by a not famous model? Sometimes, holding back their money has its own backlash, " Sofia softly responded.


    "When you say it like that, it does make sense. The marketing field is such a hard task to do," Jing Jing pouted.


    "Indeed. Mostly, marketing projects have their targets. For example, if they use models to promote their brands, they also have to set a goal of sales increase for the next succeeding months. I have to see their target. If it''s reasonable, I will accept this," Sofia stated. "Your ex boss, Mr. Wang is actually a thoughtful partner. Normally, contracts like this are not passed to the models. It will be directly handled by the manager. But, he took the initiative to let me see the contract."


    "His company won''t be the leading press business in the district if he does not know how to deal with things. He is indeed thoughtful," Jing Jing praised.


    Sofia nodded her head and downloaded the file of the contract. Jing Jing focused on driving after realizing that Sofia had also concentrated on reading the document on her phone.


    After several minutes, Sofia smiled. "It''s actually worth it. Their target goal is also doable considering that we have fans in our social media accounts.. As long as they will agree to do the photo shoot after lunchtime, I will take this project."

 Chapter 267 - Squad Endorsement Offer (2)

    "Then, do you need to go to boss Wang''s office? I can reroute in the next traffic light. We can pay him a visit again!" Jing Jing said.


    "I''ll give him a call first to check his availability. The road is empty, please switch lanes and slow down our speed a little bit, sis Jing," Sofia instructed and started dialing boss Wang''s contact number again.


    "With the successful publicity today, I think he is still there," Jing Jing guessed as she swiftly maneuvered and shifted the car to a slower lane.


    "He is still there. But, it is proper to ask if he is available to meet us rather than showing up directly at his door. This way, we put value and respect on his time by making an onhand appointment," Sofia casually spoke before realizing that what she said might sound improper to Jing Jing. How could she lecture this matter to someone who is older than her?! She adjusted her sitting position and quickly added, "I''m just saying it from some books that I have read, sister Jing."


    Jing Jing''s eyes moved from left to right several times as if she was in deep thought. Just as she was about to respond, the phone call of Sofia was already connected to boss Wang...


    "Mr. Wang, as discussed earlier, I have read the documents and I am interested in the endorsement. If we can make the photo shoot after lunch tomorrow, I will surely bring my team," Sofia spoke directly.


    "After lunch tomorrow... Alright! The schedule is fine!" Boss Wang quickly responded.


    "Then, I will meet you to discuss the endorsement. We are on our way to your office. If it''s not convenient, we can also meet later this afternoon," Sofia suggested.


    "It''s okay to meet me anytime. Hehe, the representatives from the shoe brand are also here. You can meet and discuss with them," Boss Wang answered.


    With this confirmation, Sofia asked Jing Jing to reroute and drove to Boss Wang''s office...


    After half an hour, the two of them were walking in the hallway towards the entrance door. Sofia had left her big notebooks in the car and only brought her phone. Jing Jing on the other hand was holding her handbag as she walked beside Sofia.


    Two figures walked side by side with a different aura that made most of the employees in the place stared at them for too long. Nonetheless, all of them were ex-colleague of Jing Jing. Yet, they still felt a little bit lacking when they saw her walking with her head held high. The confidence level of the two figures were just on expert level!


    Most of the time, Jing Jing was observing Sofia''s gestures and mannerisms. At some point, she was subconsciously influenced by the young lady and she did not even realize that she was already copying some of Sofia''s style.


    When Sofia entered boss Wang''s office, she saw that the man was in the middle of a conversation with two women. She gave them a formal smile and slightly bowed her head as a form of greeting.


    "Oh, you are here! That''s too fast! Let me give you a formal introduction," Boss Wang quickly stood from his seat and offered Sofia a chair.


    However, he did not bother to pay attention to Jing Jing nor look in her direction at all. With his attitude, Jing Jing secretly rolled her eyes at him and pulled a chair from the side to position her seat next to Sofia.


    "Here... This is the squad leader of the Chronos squad. The group that I''ve mentioned. She is Sofia. They are the representative of the shoe brand. This is Chel and this is Cathy," Boss Wang started and Sofia extended her hand.


    After a brief handshake and formalities of the two parties, they quickly went down with their main discussion.


    "There is no need to mention the payments or other contract details. I have read the documents and I am okay with the conditions in all clauses stipulated therein. But, I want to know the concept of your shoes. What was the inspiration for its design? And what''s unique about it? Can you tell me the details, please?" Sofia stated just after the two women opposite to her were seated.


    Hearing the questions, the two suddenly felt like they were being examined by their boss. They did not know why, but out of a sudden, they felt a little bit nervous.


    For a while, the two women became speechless. Boss Wang too, opened his mouth and forgot to close it. He just stared at Sofia. Who would have thought that Sofia would actually ask such questions?


    "Hehe... W-well..." the woman named Chel started. But soon, she did not also know the answer. They were just representative of the brand. Not the designer of the shoes! How would they know about these details?


    Sofia observed their reactions and she easily caught the uncertainty in them. She had seen through their discomfort and realized that the two women had no idea of this shoe brand! She could not help but inwardly scolded the two women. ''As a representative, it''s your duty to do research on the brand that you are representing! Why did their company appoint them without basic knowledge of the product?''


    After a great amount of awkward silence around them, Sofia smiled and said, "You may call your boss or the head designer of your company to ask for the details. This question is not a matter of life and death. It can easily be answered as long as you know the information. But, since you don''t know, just ask whoever is knowledgeable."


    "Girl, your job is just to endorse the shoes. Why do you ask so many irrelevant questions?" the woman named Cathy finally gather all her guts and asked Sofia.


    "Do you think it''s worth it to endorse a meaningless product? Even if you have the money to pay us, it is also important for me to understand the product that I will be endorsing. My questions are very relevant," Sofia calmly replied.


    Chel and Cathy gulped and felt that their mouth had gone dry. In the end, Chel took the initiative and excuse herself to call their manager. She went out of the office after the call was connected, leaving her companion to endure the uneasy atmosphere inside.


    On the other hand, Sofia thought that her questions were just basic. However, the two women were just appointed representatives that were selected by their boss to meet boss Wang that morning. Their task was just to secure an endorsement. The endorser that boss Wang was recommending to them was actually very inquisitive! They had never estimated that something like this would happen! The room had turned really awkward!


    "Mr. Wang, may I ask for a glass of water?" Sofia looked at boss Wang. But, the man was still staring blankly at her with his mouth wide open.


    Bang!


    Jing Jing slapped the desk with a force that made the man return to reality. He shook his head several times and looked very startled by Jing Jing''s action.


    "It''s good that you are awake now, boss Wang! You must really be tired," Jing Jing grinned and feign ignorance of her actions.


    "Indeed, I want to rest! Especially when I see your ungrateful face!" Boss Wang gritted his teeth and glared at Claire.


    "Boss Wang, I''m a little thirsty. May I have a bottle of cold water?" Sofia asked again before their argument turned heated.


    "Ohh... wait, I''ll ask someone to bring water here," Boss Wang responded and dialed the telephone in his desk to call his secretary. After the call, the secretary really brought five bottles for them.


    "Thank you," Sofia said when she got the water and quickly twisted the cap.


    After the secretary left, Chel entered the office again. She carefully glance at Sofia and sat beside her companion. "Uhm, about your questions, I have inquired it already."


    "Okay, let''s hear it," Sofia smiled.


    "According to the head of the design, the sneakers that you will be endorsing are created with the concept of giving comfort to the customers. As for the inspiration, the designer was inspired by the teens who wore slippers while dancing in the streets. The designer hoped for them to move at their own comfort," Chel narrated.


    "Hmmn," Sofia clasped her hand together and pondered the information for a few seconds. Then, she spoke, "The inspiration is indeed dignified. But, its concept is too common."


    "You---" the two women stood from their seats in an abrupt motion. One of the chairs was almost knocked to the floor. Then, they pointed their index fingers at Sofia with a glint of fury in their eyes.


    Somehow, they felt insulted by Sofia''s casual remarks. How could she call the concept common? Is she doing it on purpose to irritate them?


    Boss Wang felt conflicted by the sudden action of the women. However, Jing Jing was only sitting calmly while crossing her legs. She was mentally clapping her hands as she felt proud of the young teen beside her.


    Just as the two women were about to finish the words that they want to say, Sofia slowly  raised her hand and gestured for them to seat back in their chairs.


    "Don''t be offended. I don''t have any ill-intention with the concept of the product," Sofia expressed.


    "Bah! You came here and asked so many questions! Now, you are mocking our concept?! Who do you think you are?" Chel looked sullen. Meanwhile, Cathy had a dark expression on her face.


    "Ahh... ladies, I am just saying that it''s really common. Come to think of it, ever since shoes have existed, even in ancient times, what is its purpose? Isn''t it to give comfort? I don''t mean to throw mockery. I am just giving my opinion," Sofia explained.


    The two women were once again speechless. They had no words to use to debate Sofia at all! Using comfort as the concept of the product for their endorsement project was indeed too common!

 Chapter 268 - Squad Endorsement Offer (3)

    The two women contemplated for a while and tried their best to gather their composure. They secretly took a deep breath and looked at each other with a meaningful glance.


    "You''ve made a good point," Cathy helplessly spoke and looked at boss Wang. "Do you think that the concept is not worthy for you to endorse?"


    Hearing her question, Sofia immediately realized the sarcasm in her tone. She giggled and took a sip of water. Her movements were slow that the people around her gaped at her.


    "The contract is not yet signed. If you don''t like to endorse the products, we will find a new prospect to endorse it," Chel quickly added.


    "You think too much. As I said, I am just expressing my opinion. I have no ill-intention for this project," Sofia replied. She busied herself by closing the cap of her water bottle and letting silence engulf them once more.


    "Then, what do you want, Miss Sofia? Tell us exactly so we would not waste our time talking here but accomplishing nothing," Cathy demanded.


    Now, these two representatives had another impression of the young lady in front of them. Not only she was inquisitive. She was also opinionated!


    But as Cathy observed Sofia''s expression, there was actually no trace of arrogance in her bearing. Despite her direct words towards their concept, she still looked noble while sitting straight in the chair.


    Sofia pursed her lips. She slowly raised her hand on the left side and gathered some of her hair at the back of her ear. She leaned forward and give a glance at boss Wang. However, before she could respond to Cathy, Chel moved her chair using her full body and stood again...


    "Actually... since you dared to say that our product''s concept is too common, you must have your own idea, right? You can''t just drop your opinion and criticize us without having thoughts. Otherwise, girl, we are just going to treat you as pretending to be a know-it-all," Chel also voiced out.


    Seeing the manner of how she was maliciously eyeing Sofia, Jing Jing also stood from her seat. "What do you mean by that?" she countered in a challenging gaze.


    "Ohh, don''t tell me you don''t understand what I said? It''s too simple. Your squad leader should not give opinions to things that she does not even know the full nature of it. She can say that our concept is common. But who knows, she is just ignorant?!" Chel scoffed.


    Jing Jing suddenly raised one of her eyebrows and glared at Chel. "Hey! Watch your words! What do you mean ignorant? Miss Sofia knows more than you! Her ideas are better than what you have! If not for her, you won''t even know about that details!"


    "Heh! You can claim that this girl is knowledgeable more than me. But, mere words from your mouth is just empty word. If we don''t hear her ideas right now, then, how can we believe your claims that she is knowledgeable?" Cathy stated.


    Jing Jing clenched her fist. But, all of a sudden, she felt a tug in the hem of her blouse. Sofia gently pulled the side of her upper outfit and gestured for her to sit.


    "Don''t fight over little things. We are here to settle some matters. We must discuss this endorsement project in a professional way. I hate to waste my time too. But, raising our voices and yelling won''t really make our discussion finish. Drink a sip of water and calm down," Sofia spoke. Her words were directed not just to Jing Jing but also to all of them in the room.


    Jing Jing obliged. She quickly drank half of the water in her bottle and realized that she did react badly. "My apologies, Miss Sofia. I almost lost my temper. But, that Chel is clearly belittling you. I won''t endure it," she whispered.


    "Sister Jing, I appreciate your sentiments. But, situations like this need to be handled calmly," Sofia whispered back to Jing Jing. There was a small curl on her lips as she looked at the two brand representatives. Then, she shifted her line of vision to boss Wang. "Mr. Wang, do you have suggestions?"


    The man had been in a state of daze. When Sofia called his name, he was once again startled. Then, he asked, "W-what? Ahh--- let me think first. S-should I give a suggestion?"


    "Boss Wang, your mind seemed to be in outer space!" Jing Jing snickered with a hint of playfulness in her tone.


    "Hmmph, I won''t argue with you, jinx! However, I''m really sorry for my distracted behavior Miss Sofia and the two ladies... I haven''t closed my eyes since yesterday," Boss Wang admitted.


    "Mr. Wang, I understand. You did work hard for me. Let me just handle it, then," Sofia quickly asserted. She then looked at Chel and offered a friendly smile, "Please call your manager again, Ms. Chel. I will talk to her about my ideas of the concept for this endorsement project to expedite our negotiation."


    Chel sighed and sat on her chair. She did not say a word but she proceed to check her call logs and pressed the name Manager Lan.


    After dialing the number, the call was quickly answered in just a first ring. "Ehem! Manager Lan, sorry to disturb you. I have other concerns about the endorsement project," Chel stated in a solemn tone but her volume is loud enough to ensure that Sofia could hear her.


    "Speak," the manager responded with no trace of emotion in his voice.


    Just by her voice, Sofia could tell that the person was someone that held great authority in the shoe company. Perhaps, this manager is just a position. As for her identity, Sofia predicted that she sounded like an owner or perhaps the investor of the business.


    "Uhm, So, I told the endorser about what you said on my first call. This endorser does not seem satisfied with the concept of our shoes. She thinks that it is too common to use comfort as the concept! Now, she wants to talk with you," Chel reported in one go and did not wait for the manager to say anything. "Manager Lan, here is the endorser!"


    The phone was quickly handed to Sofia. In split seconds, Sofia place the device near her ear and slowly stood from her seat. Jing Jing and the rest of the people looked at her as she started walking towards the door and outside the office.


    She just stood there on the side of the office. They could still see her shadow on the glass wall, but there was no way for them to understand the conversation between her and Manager Lan. All they could hear were murmurs and incoherent sentences from Sofia.


    "Eh, ladies... do you want coffee?" Boss Wang asked the two representatives. He was calling his secretary again to bring him a coffee.


    "No, we are fine. Boss Wang, who is this girl that she could actually talk to our manager calmly? What kind of family background did she have?" Cathy curiously inquired.


    "Miss Sofia? I''m not too concerned about the family background of others. But, judging from Miss Sofia''s personality, she should be from an elite family. You can ask her," Boss Wang spoke and passed their attention to Jing Jing.


    But before they could speak, Jing Jing already gestured for them to stop. "The two of you are not worthy of knowing the family background of Miss Sofia. Please respect her privacy!"


    With Jing Jing''s dismissal, they have settled in silence. Only Boss Wang was sipping a coffee while looking at Sofia''s shadows outside.


    Meanwhile, Sofia took her time to speak with manager Lan as if she was speaking with a person that had equal authority as her. Despite how cold the tone of Manager Lan was, she was not intimidated at all.


    "You called the concept of our product common?" Manager Lan started.


    "Let''s call it what it is. The concept of comfort is now overused. It''s really too common. I want to speak to you directly so I can share a better idea for these products. I wonder if you are interested to hear my ideas, Manager Lan?" Sofia responded.


    "Hahaha... since you have the guts to call us out. Then, I am really interested in what better ideas do you have, Miss Sofia!? Care to enlighten me then," Manager Lan chuckled.


    "Hmmn, from what I understood, the inspiration of the product... uhm, may I ask first if the designer of the shoes is a dancer too?" Sofia suddenly assessed.


    "That''s right! I could say that the one who designed the shoes had a fair share of dancing experience," Manager Lan answered right away.


    "Then, who made the concept of the endorsement?" Sofia questioned once more.


    "Is it important to know to know who made the what you called ''common'' concept?" Manager Lan retorted. In reality, it was her department who assigned this concept. But, she did not want for Sofia to know it.


    "Not really. I am just trying to find a better understanding of how the concept of comfort was decided for this endorsement. In any case, I will take a guess and assume that the designer was not the one who decides the concept," Sofia expressed easily. The manager may have her way of hiding information, but Sofia could proceed with her own instinct. And she was certain that her guess was correct.


    "Whatever you want to assume! Don''t waste my time. Speak your ideas," Manager Lan demanded.


    "Hehe... Well, in my mind, those artists who performed and danced on the side of the streets did not really think about comfort. Instead, they are trying to express their passion for dancing. The sense of freedom from their movements while being watched in the public... the most suitable concept for this should be... breaking the comfort zone. What do you think, manager Lan?"


    "B-breaking the comfort z-zone?----" Manager Lan repeated but there was a small tremor in her voice as she was actually impressed by Sofia''s idea.. Break the comfort zone by wearing their products! Manger Lan took a deep breath and cleared her throat just to hide her astonished state. But, no matter what, she was completely impressed!

 Chapter 269 - Sponsorship Proposal

    Their line suddenly became a prolonged dead air. Manager Lan was too stunned that she had to take several minutes to manage her composure. But, Sofia knew that such silence between them was more than enough to secure a positive reaction from the manager.


    After a few more minutes, she decided to break the dead air. "Well, Manager Lan, what do you think? In this generation, teens do not seek comfort. What they want is the freedom to express themselves. Since they are your target customer, I recommend you to adapt my suggestion."


    "Hmmn, we have never really taken the perspective of your concept. I must say, after careful thought, it does have a better impact. Since you will be the endorser of the products, I will agree to this and update the details here. I appreciate you sharing these ideas with me. Thank you," Manager Lan finally said.


    Even if she felt slightly offended by Sofia''s comments, she could not deny the fact that her suggestions would really be useful to their company. She had been in the business industry for so long that it would be outrageous for her if she would reject Sofia''s idea. Personal emotions must not affect her interest in the business. "I must say, you do have the knowledge and better understanding than most of my staff! If there is a chance, I would like to meet you, Miss Sofia," Manager Lan praised.


    "Thank you! That''s good to hear that you approved of my recommendation, manager Lan. Meeting you in person is my honor," Sofia spoke softly.


    "You have the gift of eloquence," Manager Lan stifled her laughter.


    "Hahaha... just average. But, I think with this endorsement project, we can introduce a proper slogan for the product too. For example - Reach the horizon by leaping away from your comfort zone. Your unbounded steps start with us.... something along the lines," Sofia continued.


    "You--- you even considered the matters about the advertising campaign of this product?!" Manager Lan exclaimed. This time, she did not bother to hide her surprised reaction and directly questioned Sofia.


    "It''s not that big of a deal. The idea just came to my mind!" Sofia giggled.


    "If it just came to your mind... Aren''t you a genius, then?" Manager Lan said in a playful tone.


    "I wish I am. Hahaha... Anyway, since my team will endorse the products, I have to make sure that everything is suitable for this project. I did some research about it. If you are satisfied by my suggestions, you may also add another compensation in the payment clause and give a direct sponsor to our club? Do you dare, Manager Lan?" Sofia half-heartedly joked.


    Advertisement is one thing. But she was clear about the difference between working the endorsement deal and having a direct sponsorship of the company. And if the Chronos E-Sports Club would not gain any sponsor apart from their business, it would be very unrealistic for it to survive in the corporate world.


    Every opportunity must not be wasted! Since she had spoken directly to someone who could decide easily in the company, she might as well open up her expectations too!


    "Hahaha... Indeed, there is no free meal in this industry," Manager Lan laughed at how straightforward Sofia had spoken about direct sponsorship. "Miss Sofia, you make it sound like sponsorship is something that is too easy to arrange. But in reality, let me tell you how it works. To sponsor your club, it will require the decisions of the majority of the company''s board members. We have to analyze the pros and cons of the sponsorship and see if it''s really advantageous in our business. There must be a long-term goal for us to sponsor you. You cannot have it just by simply asking for it. You have to show us your club''s performance."


    ''I know,'' Sofia thought. But, the club had no existing performance that she could present to Manager Lan. Based on the basic requirements, it may take them a year to get a real sponsor if she would just wait for an offer!


    "Just like my group... the club is still fresh, Manager Lan. What I can guarantee is that the club has hired smart and outstanding employees," Sofia paused and the image of Jing Jing and Heiz came into her mind. She cleared her throat once more and continued, "Ehem! So, even if it''s a new club, I''m taking the initiative to get your sponsorship. I believe that our opportunity is big and I hope we can get a more solid connection with your business," Sofia stated without any fear of losing anything. In her mind, if Manager Lan would reject her proposal, she could just find another potential sponsor.


    "It''s new? Then, that is really a difficult request. But, since your ideas are really better than ours, I can present your ideas and discuss the sponsorship with the board members of our company. I can''t give your request right now. If everything goes well, I will send a separate contract for the sponsorship. For now, go on with the endorsement. Is that alright?" Manager Lan stated. Their company had many celebrity endorsers. But mostly, it''s for their young adult''s products. As for the new product, they really wanted to have fresh faces.


    "That''s fine by me. After all, sponsorship is a long-term investment. I will hope for a favorable result... Then, have a great day to you, manager Lan. I will return this mobile phone to the owner," Sofia said and sauntered back inside the office. After handing the phone to Chel, she easily gave Claire a thumbs up.


    It did not take long for the party A and the party B to formally sign the contract of the endorsement. After delivering a brief summary of what they had discussed, the two representatives packed their files and left.


    On the other hand, Sofia and Jing Jing did not move from their seats. They turned towards boss Wang and gave him an inquisitive look.


    "What is it?" Boss Wang questioned after feeling the burning stare of Sofia and Claire.


    "You should take a rest, Mr. Wang. Don''t burn yourself at work. You have so many employees here. Let them handle all the remaining works for you," Sofia stated thoughtfully. After Chel and Cathy left, it was only the time that she had really taken notice of the dark circles around the eyes of the man. There was no doubt, his face had resembled a panda.


    "Ahh... you don''t understand my feelings right now, Miss Sofia. This time, most of my competitors have praised me for getting the hottest topic in our district. But if they know that I still have one more announcement to make, they would definitely express their envy of me! Hehehe... I have to finish our publicity plan personally before I''ll sleep," Boss Wang explained with a contented smile on his face. Despite the exhaustion he felt, he was actually still willing to push the publicity. Sofia was somewhat speechless. In exchange for the praises of the competitor, the man had actually sacrificed his rest?


    "Miss Sofia, here is the thing... This morning, I am being accused of getting dull and having lost my ability in the industry. Those competitors threatened to trample me. But, the table had turned quickly and I could not wait to slap the reality in their faces! So, I''ll go with our original plan. Don''t mind me. Thank you for your concern," Boss Wang explained.


    "Don''t wait for noontime. Just publish the third announcement right now so you can eventually rest, Mr. Wang. You may be able to slap their faces with the reality... but look in the mirror... It''s your face that becomes the definition of stress. It''s really not worth it," Sofia ordered. She did not know that boss Wang had turned compassionate with their plan. But, she felt guilty that it would be the reason for him to get extreme fatigue later on.


    "Miss Sofia, that is harsh! But, I won''t take offense. Hehehe... You are right. Hmmn... I can handle this. After noontime, I will definitely go home and take a huge amount of time to rest. Hehehe," Boss Wang insisted. His stubbornness is really something that even Sofia had failed to convince him.


    "Alright. Then, if you could attend to our shooting endorsement, we will see you tomorrow after lunch, Mr. Wang! We will take our leave," Sofia waved her hand and finally walked out of the door. Jing Jing did not bother to speak a word. She just followed Sofia as she felt that her former boss would not require her to say goodbye. It would be a waste of energy if she said something to him.


    "We will go back to your apartment now, Miss Sofia?" Jing Jing asked after the two of them were settled in her car.


    Sofia looked at her watch and replied, "Yes."


    On their way, Sofia busied herself by sending messages in their group chat. She had told her members about the endorsement project.. Jing Jing concentrated on driving and would occasionally give a glance at Sofia.

 Chapter 270 - Business Competitors In The Intersection Street (1)

    Within the vicinity of the intersection street, there stood a newly painted maroon building. It was just a walking distance away from the establishment that Sofia had bought for her to start her Chronos company. It was the only building that looked bright in the area.


    The building is owned by a mysterious entrepreneur named Mr. Jonathan Soo. And the man was known to sell appliances and electronics that were produced directly from his overseas company called Soo Electronics International.


    Noontime...


    Five men were eating their lunch in his cozy office in the building. Jonathan was seated in the middle while the four men were on each side. These men were al in their middle thirties and were wearing business suits.


    While eating, the men were also talking about export and import sales and profits. They discussed some risks and other schedule of export deliveries.


    Out of a sudden, one of the men opened his phone. There was a notification that displayed on his screen.  His face suddenly turned pale as if something in his phone had greatly affected him.


    "Mr. Soo, check the news. This is the location that we have always wanted to purchase, right? It''s the establishment just a few meters away from here. How come it becomes the venue of a wedding? I thought you have managed to scare the owner of that establishment?" the man asked. He then showed his mobile screen to Jonathan.


    The five men quickly left their plates and moved to look at the news. After they finish reading, the three other men consequently expressed their different opinions.


    "Someone must have purchased the property before we could acquire it?"


    "Wait, who''s family is hosting the wedding? The district mayor and the Lee family?!"


    "Who is the owner of the venue? Call your private investigator and check the profile of the new owner secretly."


    Jonathan''s jaw tightened. He was completely certain that he had scared the previous owner of the establishment. He swiftly pulled out his phone and sent a message to his private investigator.


    These men had been planning to expand their appliance and electronic business by acquiring the establishments near his building. They wanted to build a factory there. Jonathan even hired hoodlums to scare the business owner.


    However, he did not expect that someone had already reaped the fruits of his underhanded schemes before he could make his moves!


    "Mr. Soo, this new owner might be a tough competitor. The cost of the venue is published here. This is not just some businessman who wants to earn profit. This new owner could be an expert in managing cash flow! Look at that amount!"


    Ten minutes passed and Jonathan was still quiet in his seat. None of his companions could tell what he was thinking as his face did not display any emotions at all.


    "A wedding venue with this cost is almost unbelievable! Let''s check the connection of this competitor later."


    "Maybe a close friend of the mayor? Why else would the families be willing to accept an overcharge rate in their wedding venue?! Right?"


    The other four men resumed eating but they were still guessing. When their lunch food was almost consumed, an employee entered the office.


    "Mr. Soo, there is a parcel delivered under your name," the employee spoke and gave the white plastic to Jonathan. He then eventually left after.


    "What is that? Ohh... from the private investigator. That''s quick!" the first man to notice the news quickly helped Jonathan to open the parcel. "What are these? Five envelopes with students'' information? Is this parcel mixed up? Could it be that the private investigator sent us a wrong file?"


    The other also looked at the content of the parcel.


    "Why did the investigator send these to us?" the other man stated. He was holding the file of Sofia and Claire. He just took a glance and did not even bothered reading their names.


    "These files feel like a group of students is applying for on-the-job training. Ohh... wait, wait, wait," another man spoke and he stopped at the envelope that contained the profile with a familiar last name. "Clark Rosen Zhang... Check this!  Is the elite Zhang family... is he our new competitor?"


    Everyone felt a little bit conflicted. As far as they knew, the Zhang family is well-respected in the district. They could never pull a scheme against such a solid family background!


    "The Zhang family, I will give senior Zhang a call and see if he knows this boy. I don''t know if he has a son or not. I wonder why the private investigator did not include the family profile of these teens," Jonathan finally spoke. It would have been easier for him to identify the new owners if the files contained family background. Weirdly, there were no family information in all the files that they received.


    Jonathan started scrolling his contacts...


    "Mr. Soo, there''s another familiar last name in the other envelope! I''m suspecting that these two families are forming a business alliance?" the other man stated. In his hand was the profile of Stephen.


    "Which family is that?" Jonathan questioned.


    "The name in here is Stephen Lewis Ching. Maybe the Ching and the Zhang families are in some sort of alliance and want to expand their business in this district too?"


    "We''ll see," Jonathan chuckled. "If they are really joining forces then, the cost of the venue is indeed something that is within their capability. However, we need that location. So, we will just negotiate to them."


    After the call got connected, Jonathan instantly greeted the other person. "Senior Zhang, it''s me... Jonathan Soo from the electronics store. How are you?"


    "Ohh... I''m surprised by this phone call, Mr. Soo. Hehe, all is great, thank you. Do you have some important matter to discuss with me?" the friendly voice of Clark''s father echoed inside the office.


    "I just called to ask if you know in your family a boy named..." Jonathan paused and gestured to his companion to give him the file of Clark. "...ehhh, a boy named Clark Rosen Zhang?"


    "Ohh... that''s my youngest son! What about him, Mr. Soo?" Senior Zhang turned serious after hearing the name of his son.


    "Ahhh... your second son. I''m just curious... hehe... Senior Zhang, be honest with me... are you starting a business in intersection street? Coz I am hearing news about the upcoming wedding of the son from the Lee family," Jonathan stated.


    "Nah... Mr. So, I just came back from overseas vacation with my wife. I think that the intersection place is too dangerous to start a business. That area is full of gang fights and fraternity brawls. I won''t take the risk," Senior Zhang easily responded. "But, why did you mention my second son? Did he get in trouble at the intersection street while I''m on vacation?"


    "Nothing of such. There may be a mistake in our information. Alright, I won''t disturb you anymore. Goodbye, senior Zhang!" Jonathan quickly ended their conversation before the man could ask him further.


    "Senior Zhang is a cautious businessman. There is no way for him to pick and invest in the intersection street. And it seems like he was not yet aware of the news?" one of his companions commented.


    "That''s what I also think. I''ll contact the old man Mr.. Ching and ask about his son," Jonathan stated and went to search the man''s contact details.

 Chapter 271 - Business Competitors In The Intersection Street (2)

    Several times the phone rang loudly in Jonathan''s hand. And then the automatic call operator consequently announced a busy line spiel. His companions furrowed their brows and looked at one another.


    "Mr. Ching is a difficult man. He is greedy and only thinks of his gains. But, why would he trust teenagers to pretend to be the owners of his business? From what I could remember, he is hands-on with everything in his company," one of the men expressed his doubt.


    Jonathan released a long sigh. "There is no need to bother the old man. He may not be in district 7 right now. Perhaps, that boy had just the same last name as him."


    "That''s right! I don''t think old man Ching would send his son to study in this district. The profile says this boy is a senior high school student. It''s probably just a mere coincidence," his companions supported.


    "Hmmn, I''m really curious about these teens. Since my private investigator sent their profiles, he should have already verified that they are the new owners. Hmmp! I have done so much effort just to make the first owner of that location for him to give up his business. Yet, these teens have managed to snatch the outcome of my effort! This may not be so simple as what we think," Jonathan mumbled coldly. He placed the files back in the envelope and put them aside.


    "Should we use the same tricks to remove them, Mr. Soo?" one of the men inquired.


    "The same tricks? If you want to send gangsters to the wedding to cause trouble, then, we will be implicated! Do you think the Lee family or the mayor would allow their event to be ruined? And this is a wedding!" his other companion debated.


    "If only its just an ordinary businessman, there should be no problem with our tricks. But with the family of the mayor and also the Lee family as the first client, it is really difficult," Jonathan gritted his teeth.


    "Do you mean, we just give up the location? We already prepared plans for the expansion of our business!"


    Jonathan shook his head. "Let''s not alarm our main enemy. The teens might just really be their upfront to maintain low attention from the other competitors. Since we don''t know the real backgrounds of the people behind this business, we have to observe their actions first."


    "Ehhh? How about we cancel our official business meeting in district 6? We can spend our time to visit them at the wedding reception this Saturday. The news says every citizen is invited to join the party. Let''s see if we can spot an unfamiliar big shot there."


    "That''s the most suitable idea for now. Mr. Soo, your private investigator did not include the family background of these teens. It should mean that their family is not part of the business, right?"


    "My private investigator is excellent in gathering information. I think... that is also the reason why there are no family backgrounds of them in these documents. We cannot underestimate whoever this person is," Jonathan confirmed. ''This time, I may no longer be able to use the same method as the last time to kick out these teens. How interesting. To be able to acquire the location within my watch is almost an impossible task. Tsk!''


    While these men could only draw assumptions about their competitors, the main person responsible for their sudden anxiety was just watching some videos about proper posing and modeling. To be specific, after Sofia returned to her apartment, she stayed in her room and had been studying for techniques on how to properly pose for their scheduled sneaker shooting.


    "There is really a reason why modeling agencies exist. Although posing for a picture looked simple but in reality, models need to find the right angle, their expressions, and gestures every time they change poses," Sofia pondered. "I hope we can pull this off."


    This endorsement project was not something that in her past life nor the original owner of her body had done before. And for that reason, she had to make all preparation for it.


    While Sofia was immersed in watching video clips, Jing Jing and Heiz were hanging in her living room. They have different tasks to accomplish too.


    On the sofa, Heiz was still reviewing the sample entries of the business book of accounts. She was still using Jing Jing''s phone and there was a white earphone connected to her ear. Her baby was sleeping in her lap with pillow support.


    Meanwhile, Jing Jing was also sitting on a chair situated just opposite to Heiz. She was operating Sofia''s laptop and was dealing with the fans of the Chronos squad on her social media accounts.


    The three of them had settled in silence, minding their own tasks. In the apartment, only the sound of the laptop keyboard keys could be heard around them. It was as if the apartment of Sofia had become their office.


    When the clock turned 3 PM, Hazel woke up. Heiz picked her in her arms and stood from her seat.


    Jing Jing looked at her and clapped her hand. "Good morning, princess. Are you hungry, baby girl?" She playfully said. Her voice mimicked that of a child. For a while, she just stared at the baby while the baby was also staring full of curiosity at her.


    Then she switched her line of vision to Heiz, "Do you need help, Heiz?"


    "It''s okay, ma''am," Heiz softly replied.


    Jing Jing sighed and slightly shook her head. She had been reminding Heiz not to call her ''ma''am''. However, the girl still insisted. She even told Sofia to tell Heiz not to call her with such honorifics. But, Sofia only scratched her head and told her not to mind.


    When Jing Jing resumed doing her task, she suddenly noticed an abnormal influx of notifications in Sofia''s account. The notifications were all the same. Most netizens were tagging Sofia to a certain video with the title, the true representative of district 7.


    "So many tags! What is this video all about?" Jing Jing mumbled and clicked the link to the video. It was just posted 2 minutes ago. As she waited for the entire clip to load, a frown appeared on her forehead. Little by little, familiar faces appeared on the screen. The same arrogant faces that she had seen before.


    At the same time, Sofia stepped out of her room. It was just in time for her to see the bothered expression of Jing Jing.


    "Is there a problem, sister Jing? You look like you want to murder the laptop screen?" Sofia joked.


    "AH! No, hehe... I''m just irritated a little bit. Miss Sofia, the netizens are tagging you with a video. It was created by the group of arrogant students that we have met in the bureau," Jing Jing reported. She clicked the play button to start the video.


    "An interview?" Sofia whispered. The setting of the video was indeed an interview. There were five students sitting on a sofa with an almost identical smug expression on their faces.


    Interviewer: Please introduce your squad name and members to our audiences and share with us the motivations and goals that you have.


    Squad Leader: Hello! We are the Gallant Gamers. I am Captain Rey the core. This is Fadian, our mid laner. And Harold... off lane. Then, Sebastian and Oliver tank and support. We would---


    Jing Jing suddenly paused the video. "Why is that boy announcing their positions? Is it necessary to tell the positioning in the match?"


    Sofia only shrugged. "That is probably his way of saying that he is not afraid of any opponents even if their strategy is revealed. Please play it again... why am I being tagged in this video if this is just their interview?"


    With Sofia''s instruction, Jing Jing immediately clicked the play button.


    Squad leader: We would---like to take this opportunity to call out that arrogant squad leader of the Chronos squad. Cheh! Since you are so confident this morning, how come you do not dare to register as a participant in the tournament yet? Could it be that you are scared? Are you afraid to fight against us? What a coward!


    Interviewer: So, Captain Rey, you are directly calling CEO UNRIVALED a coward because of not registering her squad as participants?


    Just after that, Sofia''s fingers reached her laptop and moved the cursor on the close button. A single click sound and the video panel in the screen went off.


    Jing Jing looked at her with a glint of confusion in her eyes.


    "He is just like that. It''s sad to see my schoolmates embarrass themselves in the public. They still carry the same institution as me," Sofia sighed. "Sister Jing, don''t respond to the tags. Just ignore them."


    Such a scene had really irked Sofia that she could not bear to continue watching the video clip. She has no problem being provoked. But, this immature way of provocation is something that she does not want to deal with.


    "Okay. Miss Sofia, I really admire your maturity. Even if you are still in your teens, you already have great self-awareness," Jing Jing casually expressed.


    "Sister Jing, it seems like you have so much faith in me. But, I am not perfect. I just think of what is right and wrong and ponder how to deal with the situation before making a decision," Sofia giggled and looked at her in the eyes. ''If only there''s a way to explain my strange circumstance.... I will definitely tell you that we have already met in my past life.''

 Chapter 272 - Strange?

    "What is the paper you are holding, Miss Sofia?" Jing Jing asked after the young lady sat on the mini sofa.


    "This is the list of prices for our dining," Sofia said and moved the paper to Jing Jing.


    Hearing that it was the set of prices for their business, Jing Jing excitedly grasped the paper and looked at it. "Strange, why are the prices are for tables?" she immediately asked after reading.


    "We will be operating differently. Restaurants charged their customers for the food. But we will charge by tables in an hourly manner," Sofia easily replied.


    Jing Jing looked on the floor and blinked her eyes. She leaned forward and gather her hand to rub her palms a few times. She could not help but doubt if she had heard Sofia''s response correctly.


    How could a dining business charge its patrons by the tables that they are using? Isn''t food the main product of dining? People should come to their establishment to eat and not to sit! This kind of operation, she had never heard it before!


    "T-the customers will pay for the table?" Jing Jing finally repeated.


    "Yes, however, it is on an hourly basis. Sister Jing, this arrangement is unique. You must be shocked?" Sofia smiled.


    "I don''t know. I have never doubted your plans, Miss Sofia. But, this one, I... I thought that we will be selling food! Why would we charge the tables instead? What about the food?" Jing Jing worriedly stated.


    "The food is free. They will pay the table depending on how many seaters they want to use," Sofia gave her a knowing smile. But Jing Jing''s eyebrows had turned into one line out of confusion.


    "The food is free?! What kind of business gives free food and charge table? Miss Sofia, perhaps, everyone will laugh at us if you will really operate this way!" Jing Jing expressed. The crease in her forehead had gone deeper as she spoke in a pleading tone.


    In her mind, this young teen that she had admired would really become the laughingstock in district 7! She had almost exclaimed and criticized that the idea was total nonsense!


    "I don''t think people will laugh at us, sister Jing. We are just running a business in a legal way. There is no silly thing about our business," Sofia said in an innocent tone.


    "Even if the business is legal, but, this free food... this list of prizes for tables... this is very strange!" Jing Jing could only use the word strange as she does not want to hurt Sofia''s feelings. She had almost used the word nonsense!


    "Strange is good. It will stimulate curiosity and people will surely want to try our unique dining," Sofia whispered.


    "Miss Sofia, what good is their curiosity to our business?" Jing Jing sighed. ''Ahh... just as I was so excited for the operation of the business, never did I expect to be turn out this way!'' she secretly lamented.


    "It''s pretty good! Here, let me explain how we will operate the dining by charging tables on an hourly basis and maximize our income," Sofia took her laptop and opened her social media account.


    "Hehe, I''m really too inexperienced. You have to excuse my ignorance, Miss Sofia," Jing Jing awkwardly mumbled and tried to calm herself. Despite her breakdown, Sofia had maintained an unbothered expression on her face. She even initiated to explain to her!


    "Not at all... You are experienced, sister Jing. But, just in a different field," Sofia smiled.


    "Where did she even get this uhh--- strange idea? Could it be that she saw this kind of arrangement on social media? And she want to adapt it?" Jing Jing murmured to herself, but Sofia still managed to hear her words. It was the only possible thing that she could think of how Sofia came up with her arrangement.


    "Not in social media... I just thought of this strategy a while ago," Sofia simply replied.


    Jing Jing pouted her lips and secretly asked in her thoughts, ''If not in social media, then where?!''


    "Sister Jing, don''t be conflicted. I think this arrangement is more profitable," Sofia giggled. The arrangement in her mind was actually the same with hotels that offer luxurious buffet dining in her past life. There were fixed prices to dine in and customers eat unlimited food but with a time limit.


    However, this kind of arrangement is not really existing in district 7. Sofia could only change the buffet dining into charging tables with unlimited food.


    "Look, sister Jing, we will serve local dishes. The ingredients do not cost much. So, if we sell the food, even if it''s per individual meal or a package meal, it is expected that the price is also not that expensive. Otherwise, if we sell it at a high price, people will call us greedy. We will possibly incur loss more than profit. But, there is another technique to get a big income without increasing the price of the food," Sofia started. A quick scene of her memories from her past life flashed in her mind. With the buffet business meetings, family gatherings, and the expensive cost of dining, people never really cared about the prize. Most of the time, they were more focused on unlimited food.


    "And that is? We will... uhmm charge people for sitting in our c-chairs?" Jing Jing reluctantly stated. How could Jing Jing understand if Sofia won''t explain this arrangement?


    "Yes! However, that is not as simple as letting them sit and asking them to pay money. Sister Jing, we are charging them per hour and we will control their time. In terms of business, do you know what''s the most luxurious goods in this world, sister Jing?" Sofia asked.


    "Ahh... I could search for that on the internet. But, Heiz is still using my phone," Jing Jing joked.


    Out of a sudden, Heiz appeared and joined them. "The most luxurious goods in the world of business... I don''t think people on the internet know it," she softly said.


    "Ohh, Heiz, about my phone, it''s just a joke. You can continue to use it," Jing Jing quickly stated.


    Sofia slightly laughed. "Then, do you know the objective answer, sister Heiz?"


    "All answers to your question... are probably subjective, sis. But... I think... I know that answer that you want to hear," Heiz replied and sat a few inches away from Sofia.


    "Hehe, Heiz ahh... you are actually hiding your knowledge from me.... come and tell me the answer," Jing Jing''s smile widened.


    "Charging customers by the tables that they would use with an hourly rate... The answer that sister Sofia is looking for should be time. No, it should be the limited time," Heiz stated.


    "Limited time..." Jing Jing pondered deeply.


    "Excellent! You actually got it, sister Heiz. The main product that we are charging to our customers is the hour that they stayed at our table. I have already calculated everything. Let''s try and see if this works! Sister Jing, hold your phone first. I will post an announcement of these prizes," Sofia stated. She then continued to type in her laptop. "Sister Heiz, please assist sister Jing. If this goes well, our customers tomorrow would surely make a reservation right now. Just list the name of the booking, the time, and the number of seats at the table, okay? Let''s start at 9 AM - 9 PM."


    The business hour was long however, with the number of her employees from the double sigma fraternity, the shifting of schedule won''t be a problem.


    "Got, it!" Heiz confirmed and quickly returned to Jing Jing her phone. She then picked a notebook and a pen that she casually placed on the mini table earlier.


    Jing Jing held her phone and watched Sofia typing...


    New Dining Business in Intersection Street!


    Eat UNLIMITED FOOD for an hour!


    Table for 2 *******


    Table for 3 *******


    Table for 6*******


    Table for 8*******


    Table for 12*******


    Open 9 AM - 9 PM


    First Come First Serve Basis! Early Reservation is now available.


    Contact Jing Jing  - 1875426***** for your bookings!


    Hurry! Limited table only!


    Walk-in customers are accepted depending on the availability of seats.


    Reserve now!


    After Sofia posted the long announcement, the netizens easily took notice of her post and instantly flooded it with comments and surprised reactions.


    GoHie: Is it tomorrow? Ohh, it''s Friday, we can definitely eat in the evening @GoLux @GeSha. Let''s go? Let''s get a table for 3!


    Samantha27: Unlimited food! Let''s try this new place @xiciing @kyle @leaah


    LeoLee: Call Call Call @winston20 @bea19 @geo999 @philip666 @waren88


    At first, the comments were focused on unlimited food. Mostly, the netizens were tagging their groups in the hope to split the price.


    Unknowingly, their actions were actually considered as advertising Sofia''s business freely. More and more tags appeared in the post and others even shared it in their own account.


    ''The rise of social media had really made advertising so much easier,'' Sofia thought and curled her lips in a smile. She continued to read the comments as if she was waiting for a particular person or topic that would appear in her notification.


    After a while, the focus of the discussion in her post shifted into the location of the place. Intersection street!


    Xyla18: Isn''t this the new place and the venue in the news about the young master of the Lee family the same? The one that cost half a million? OMG!!! Please confirm if this is the same?!


    This was only what Sofia had waited for. With one person opening the similarity of the location, Sofia quickly replied to her.


    CEO UNRIVALED reply to Xyla18: Yes. It''s the place.


    In one click and the curiosity of the people ignited like a fire in the candle. And, the flames of interest quickly scattered all over the social media. Soon after, Jing Jing''s phone started to ring. Heiz started to list the names and information of their reservation.


    Minutes passed like a blur and the two coordinated really well. Jing Jing finally understood the arrangement. It is not the table prices. It was the time of the booking that is significant.


    "Sir, our 1 PM schedule for tomorrow is already booked. You can choose 2 PM and 6 PM.. This is the only schedule that is open," Jing Jing continued to talk on her phone.

 Chapter 273 - Ruckus Outside The School

    Claire was attentive in all her subject. She completely ignored the gossip surrounding the news about the wedding. Since Sofia had reminded them to study for their exams, she decided to sit in the second row just so she could focus on listening to her teacher.


    In her classroom, there were really too many distractions every time the teacher would elaborate or explain their topic. Most students sneaked their way to check their social media during discussions. Others were also daring to play games. Some would also read stories...


    Because the teacher is already old and would not bother to even lightly scold them, students had become like this.


    Every one seemed busy with their own separate business in this class. However, during the time when the video clip interview of the Gallant Gamer Squad started to spread among students, Sofia''s classmates were very eager to tell her about the ongoing provocation. How could they not be excited? Both parties involved were in the same school as them! Such matter was indeed very interesting to them!


    "Psst! Claire! Claire! Pssst! Psssst!" the student who sat three seats away on the right side started calling her. This student was regarded as their number one class gossiper.


    Claire turned in her direction and whispered, "Shen, I''m listening to our teacher. Don''t disturb me."


    "AHHH--Look! Watch that video... here, use my earphone. Listen what this man is saying," Shen sneaked her hand to the next student and let her pass her phone with a white wireless earphone placed above the screen.


    "I will watch that video later," Claire directly refused and turned her attention back to their teacher.


    Shen only rolled her eyes after hearing Claire''s refusal. She gather her gadget on her desk and did not also insist. "Later and it is late to react in this video. Don''t blame me... I am just trying to make you updated!"


    "Claire, the video is about your squad. Someone is calling your squad leader a coward in an official interview. Now it''s trending!" another student at her back whispered.


    "Claire, is the Chronos squad not participating in the regional tournament? Your squad leader is being taunted because of this issue. Can you confirm if you will play?" Claire''s direct seatmate spoke too. His last question was what everyone wanted to ask from them. Even on the internet, the netizens had been tagging their personal accounts just to verify if they would participate in the said tournament.


    "Bro, we have an exam in the first week of March, don''t we? Or could it be that you have an exemption? This time, I am doing my best to focus here so I can answer our exam. Don''t ask me about the tournament. The registration of participants is still ongoing. Nothing can be certain. And knowing our squad leader, even if someone would call her coward, she won''t be affected by it," Claire grumbled.


    The boy sitting next to her was the top student in their section. Somehow, she is close to him. In the past, she would copy assignment answers from him. But, during their exams, the distance of their seats would be two meters apart. And there are faculty members that would facilitate the monitoring of the examinees. Even if their teacher is old, it would still be difficult for her to copy.


    "So, your Chronos squad can''t decide if you would participate?" her seatmate still continued.


    Claire sighed and looked him in the eye. "It''s already decided. We just have other things to do. And don''t go on the internet and feed this gossip! Our group has an exclusive press. Whatever will be our decision, it will be announced at the right time."


    "Well, if your squad won''t participate, just play with us. It''s a waste of your skills if you won''t join this tournament," the boy grinned.


    Claire helplessly shrugged and did not speak anymore. The times when other squads approached her and tried to invite her to join them were too many to count.


    "This ends our discussion. Class dismissed!" their teacher announced and slowly walked out of their classroom.


    The moment he left, the loud noises quickly erupted in the four corners of the room as if the students had been suppressing their speeches for a long time. Instead of going home, they formed into a group and started talking about the trending topics online.


    Only Claire sneaked out and rushed towards the school gate. She wanted to wait for the others there.


    After halting her steps outside the gate, Claire took her phone and planned to chat in their GC. However, before she could even start typing her message, a reporter with three crew members was also walking towards her.


    Based on their movements, one could tell that they were filming. And then, the group formed a circle around Claire...


    "Our dearest online viewers who are watching us right now, we have finally located the assassin user of the Chronos squad! Come and join us as we interview her! Miss Claire, have you seen the trending video from the Gallant Gamer Squad online?" the reporter rushed her words the moment she saw Claire in the gate.


    Being cornered like this, Claire instantly panicked! If it was just inside the game, she would not be afraid no matter how many opponents would rally towards her. But, in real life, she is not as fierce as her character in the game!


    "U--uhmm... h-hello," Claire gulped and tried to tidy her hair. The crew member that held the camera was quickly positioned in front of her face.


    "Miss Claire, our audience could not wait! Let us know if you have seen our interview of the members of the Gallant Gamer Squad?" the reporter repeated. It turns out, they were the same crew who posted the certain interview online!


    "No, Miss... I was in my class. I-I did not go online, yet," Claire softly responded while her right hand gripped tightly on her phone. Her expression turned dark and she tried to move out from the circle. But, the crew really cornered her.


    Claire looked around to see if she could return to the school. But, a wave of students was already blocking her way too.


    "AHH... is that so? Then, can you tell us your opinion about the Gallant Game Squad?" the reporter probed with full of enthusiasm in her voice.


    "T--that... I haven''t met them. B-but if there is an opportunity to play against their squad, best of luck!" Claire replied and turned away. "P-please excuse me, I h-have to go now."


    "What''s the rush? We are just starting with our one on one interview?! Could it be that the assassin user of the Chronos Squad is a coward in real life?" the reported joked. Obviously, she wanted to draw Claire''s attention back to her.


    Hearing this malicious statement, Claire freeze in anger. She gritted her teeth and she could feel that any moment, her tears would fall. For some reason, she could not control the sudden surge of her emotion.


    Before Claire really lost her composure, the sudden shout of demand resounded a few meters away from them.


    "Excuse me!!! Don''t block the gate!!!"


    Students who had formed a group to watch the interview quickly moved their feet and give way.


    The voice also caused the interviewer to look in its direction. And then, the figures of Stephen, Joey, and Clark marching out of the gate emerged from the crowd of students.


    Given their attitude, there was no need for the crowd to guess who shouted at them. It was obviously Stephen. His notorious character had long been known to the students that they won''t dare offend him.


    "Ohh... now we have the other members of the Chronos squad! My dear audience, let''s talk to them too!" the reporter beamed with excitement after recognizing them.


    Clark went to Claire and gave her a reassuring smile. "Are you okay? You look pale."


    "I''m okay," Claire finally relaxed.


    "EXCUSE ME!" Stephen repeated when the reporter blocked them. This time, his tone was even more terrifying. Those students who could recognize the danger in his tone involuntarily flinched and started to disperse.


    "Hahaha, brother, this is already outside the school. If you still care for your face, I suggest you move away. Move, move," Joey slightly laughed as he warned the stubborn crew who still stood firmly.


    "Bah! The Chronos squad members had really grown big heads! How arrogant! This is a live broadcast! Your fans are watching! Don''t you think that your attitude is very disappointing to your fans?" the reporter angrily commented. She looked smug and wanted to reprimand the group for their behavior.


    "Now you are scared? It''s too late! Your fans had seen your true faces!----"


    Just as the reporter wanted to continue her rant in the camera to teach them a lesson, another voice, calm yet it held the same threatening tone as Stephen sounded from the other side.


    "If that certain fans of us will support your channel for harassing my members, I am really disappointed with them. It''s better not to preserve toxic vibes around us lest we might get poison someday."


    Hearing this, the Chronos members subconsciously curled their lips into a small smile. With the familiar voice, even if they don''t look in its direction, they knew that it was Sofia. There is no need for them to worry!


    The reporter was also taken aback and looked at the side.


    Sofia was indeed on the other side of the road and was crossing the street when she spoke. The students who remained a few meters of distance away to maintain a good view of the scene had blocked Sofia''s figure. Yet, she continued to speak calmly...


    "Calling my member a coward publicly is tantamount to defaming her public image. How nasty."


    "..." the crew members were even stunned. They moved behind the reported. Only the camera man continued filming.


    "Since you are doing a live broadcast, then, with so many witnesses, aren''t you afraid that we would sue you for the damages? Harassment and oral defamation... ahh, what do you think?"


    Sofia finally reached beside her group and smiled at them.


    The reporter completely lost her words and stared blankly at them.


    "I-- Well...." she stuttered while looking at Sofia. The lady wanted to embarrass the group for acting arrogantly towards her. But, she had never expected that Sofia would mention serious matters such as suing her with harassment and oral defamation!


    Initially, she just tried her luck to see if she could get a statement from them to boost their views. Now, she felt that it was truly unfortunate for her crew to go to the school! Who would have thought that they would actually be in trouble?!

 Chapter 274 - Its A Shame, You Embarrass Yourself

    Sofia took a glance at her watch to ensure that she won''t be late for her class. The regular students had long been dismissed. As she calculated, there were only 17 minutes before the first subject of the night class section would start.


    ''17 minutes... more than enough,'' Sofia thought and turned her attention at her members that had stood behind.


    Stephen placed his hands on the back. There was no trace of emotion on his face. But, the moment Sofia turned around, and they locked their gaze, his expression instantly soften. Joey maintained a grin on his lips while Clark draped his shoulder to Claire, smiling at her.


    "You guys did a great job! But, next time... if this happens, just refuse and don''t give a statement. We have an exclusive press to handle matters about our squad," Sofia calmly reminded them. Her voice was low that the onlookers could not hear it. But the reporter and her group still managed to catch her words.


    "HMMPH! Even if you have this so-called exclusive press, you can''t treat us rudely! We are still involved in this business. We can ruin your public image! Be mindful of that!" the reporter suddenly exclaimed. ''Since this brat looked unaffected, I am so determined to create trouble for them!''


    On the side, those students who had planned to leave and go home reluctantly stopped their steps and decided to watch more...


    Sofia faced the reporter once more. She clasped both of her hands and pondered for a few seconds. Then, she simply said, "Don''t make another scene to embarrass yourself, Miss. My members never treated you or your crew in a rude manner. Do you want to put your words in our mouths?"


    Sofia may look calm while speaking to her. But, the reporter had finally sensed the warning in her voice. Somehow, she wanted to stop too. However, they were still in a live broadcast and their fans had long been witnessing their unfortunate encounter. She would lose face if she backed down!


    "W-we just want to confirm your side after the video of Gallant Gamers squad becomes trending! Is it that hard to ask?" the reporter refuted.


    "Didn''t our assassin user already answer you? We did not watch the video. We are preparing for our exams and decided to lessen our online engagement. Also, it is not our obligation to watch your interviews. But, I have met the gallant squad this morning. And I wished them good luck," Sofia stated sternly.


    "So, if you have just said that earlier then we won''t reach to this point!" the reporter quickly put the blame to Sofia.


    "HAH! Look at you... I am older than you but you are not even blinking your eyes when you talk back at me! Where is your manner? Where is your respect? What kind of example are you setting to your fellow youth?! Brat!" the reporter clenched her teeth.


    ''Brat?!''


    Sofia''s eyes hardened but she blinked all the traces of unnecessary emotions.


    Her line of vision moved around and surveyed the students that had been watching them before she spoke her response. "Since I am young, what kind of example are you setting for a youth like me? Where are your manners? Where are your respect?"


    The onlookers started to giggle at this. Some even clapped their hands. Very good logic!


    "You----!!! Why would I respect you? You are not even a celebrity! I have interviewed celebrities in this district and they would even comply at us. Yet, you actually think highly of your group when in fact you are just gamers!" the reporter exhaled and felt completely agitated. Her face started to turn red in anger as she witnessed the reaction of the other students that are watching her.


    In the live broadcasts, their older fans had also started to send offensive comments and scolded her. But because she was too immersed with their conversation, she did not notice the comments.


    "I could ask you  the same. But, I won''t. Just reflect it and have some self awareness of how you behave towards my group," Sofia sighed.


    "Your fans is really disappointed of you, and you, and you... all of you! So rude! So disrespectful!" the reported pointed at Sofia and her team.


    "Miss, we are students who diligently tried our best to study and obtain decent grades. Let me ask you... why would our fans be disappointed with us? In what way did my members treat you rudely? In what way did I disrespect you?" Sofia solemnly mumbled with a list of questions delivered consequently at the reporter.


    In what way...? With Sofia probing, the other students started reflecting on the encounter that they had witnessed. Then, some of them were bold enough to speak their opinions loudly...


    "That''s right! From the start, CEO UNRIVALED was just talking calmly. But, this woman is raising her voice! It should be her who is rude and disrespectful!"


    "Your temper is not a good example to us! Old but very immature!"


    "This reporter does not know what is right or wrong! Tsk!!! It was her group who were harassing our schoolmates but she insist that they were treated badly!?"


    "If the Chronos Squad does not wish to be interviewed, why do you not respect them? Are they your servant that you can just demand them to comply to your request!?"


    The place had started to turn chaotic as all opinions came for side to side. With this ruckus going bigger, three security guards finally arrived to interfere with them.


    "Students, go home. This is not a show! Go! Go!" one of the guards gestured for the students to leave. "Not listening? Go to the guidance office if you won''t scram! I''ll count to three... 3.... 2....----"


    In a blink of an eye, the students quickly scattered. They even pushed those who were not moving. No one wants to visit the guidance office. They had no choice but to leave as fast as they can.


    While one guard was tending with the students, another went to Sofia''s group and the last went to the reporter''s side.


    "Sorry to trouble you, sir. We are going inside," Sofia told the guard and signaled for her group to enter the gate. The guard nodded his head and guided them in.


    The Chronos squad did not even give another glance at the reporter. They walked straight at the gate and settled in the bench.


    "Miss, please do not harass our students. Even if this is a public place and you have the freedom of press, you cannot be willful. It''s a shame if you embarrass yourself. Harassment is a crime," the third guard spoke to the reporter.


    "I was just asking them a simple question. What harassment?!" the reporter denied.


    "Other students had reported this to our security department. According to them, you are causing trouble here. We cannot stop you from filming in this road. That is your rights. But, the students have their rights too," the guard coldly stated.


    Soon after, the reporter also conceded. But, she still continued with her live broadcast even though they were leaving the place.


    They regroup in their van that was parked a few steps away from the convenient store. One of the crew went to drive their vehicle while the cameraman and the reporter sat on the back.


    "Sorry dearest viewers, I did not imagine that we would be treated that way!" the reporter pouted her lips and rearranged her expression in the camera. She appeared as if she was the victim. But the netizens were not as gullible as she thought. As she read the comments on their live broadcast, she started to feel depressed. Their viewers were actually scolding and demanding for her to apologize to the Chronos squad!


    In just a matter of minutes, the #ApologizeToTheChronosSquad hastag became trending too! Not only in social media but the demand also reached the gaming forums.


    Soon, the idle gamers joined the live broadcast and sent their opinions in comments. Such opinions cannot even be called opinions! It was a direct trash talks calling the reporter with profanities.


    Not only she had provoked a wrong person, she actually aggroed the hate of an entire gaming community.


    She just wanted to increase her views and engagement to become trending. Now, it really happened. Their video were put on the spot. But, she could not even find a strength to smile at the camera anymore. The comments were too offensive.


    With the pressure of the viewers, the reporter could only swallow all her emotions. Then, she weakly said, "Sorry if I offended the Chronos squad. I apologize. Sorry if I disappoint the viewers today."


    After speaking her apology, she signaled the crew to stop filming. The camera man quickly turn off the device. And their van started to move along the highway.


    ~


    02/14/2022


    Hello! :)


    From Sofia & the entire Chronos Squad:


    Sending heartwarming love to our beloved readers and supporters of our journey.


    THANK YOU SO MUCH  & HAPPY VALENTINES DAY! <3


    Every day is a special day. May you have abundant success, everlasting joy, & eternal happiness!


    xoxo

 Chapter 275 - Illusion Of Superiority

    "Claire, did that media group hurt you? That reporter is quite aggressive and was clearly desperate for views. Maybe she thinks we can easily be bullied by her," Sofia furrowed her brows slightly and examined Claire''s left and right arm. The two of them sat on the same bench while their other three companions stood on the side.


    For a while, Claire remained silent and looked absentminded. Sofia waved her hand right in Claire''s face and asked again, "Are you hurt, Claire?"


    "N-no, they just surrounded me. Ahh... I did not expect them to come and ask questions," Claire whispered. She glance behind to see Clark who was playing with her hair. Then, she snatched his wrist and held it firmly. Clark only chuckled. He adjusted her fingers and easily interlocked their hands. He remained silent while gazing at Claire.


    "Okay. I''m relieved. What happened was not your fault, Claire," Sofia stated and gently tapped her shoulder to comfort her.


    "Mmn. I don''t know why... I temporarily lost my composure! During our last subject, my seatmate asked me the same question as the reporter. And I confidently answered that we have an exclusive press that will handle it. But, when the reporter asked me the same thing, it was gone. I have forgotten to speak the same excuse to her!" Claire sighed in frustration. Partly, she had indeed blamed herself for the incident. If she could have been as insightful as Sofia, the reporter would probably not bother them. Probably.


    "You were caught off guard. Or maybe... you are intimidated by their numbers? It''s like 1 vs 4?... Hehe, if you are okay, then, what happened was not a big deal," Sofia maintain her smile and checked the time again. "My class is about to start."


    "Hmmn... That time, I panicked when they came to my direction. It was so hard to stay calm. I almost cried, guys! What the--- hahaha... geez!" Claire admitted feeling like her reaction was something unexpected. Now, as she replayed the scenes of her reaction, she really could not help but felt pathetic.


    "I saw your face turned pale, Claire. For a moment, I thought you''ll faint!" Clark expressed, massaging the back of her hand. Claire only tugged his hand and pouted her lips.


    "This Gallant Gamer Squad, you''ve met them, Sof?" Stephen suddenly questioned. In his mind, the source of the incident was the squad''s provocation. Thinking of them, his hand clenched in anger.


    "Yes. I went to the bureau with sister Jing. It happened that the academia building is in the location. So, we kind of bump into them. And they told me that the academia is sponsoring them in the tournament," Sofia narrated. Then, her eyes landed on the clenched fist of Stephen. One after another, she moved his finger and open his palm. "Steph, only in the tournament, we can teach them a lesson. I don''t approve of any physical violence."


    "Hhhmn... your encounter... it does not sound a hostile encounter, Sof. Why is their leader calling you unnecessary comments during their interview? I''ve seen that video but not the entire clip. Still, it''s offensive," Joey wondered.


    "Ahh... never mind that. Joey, I am more concerned that you are encouraging Stephen to throw a punch! If I did not arrive earlier, what kind of mess would I see? A brawl?!" Sofia looked straight on Joey''s face.


    "Did I encourage you to punch, bro? I did not say anything! Sof, you have misunderstood me. I said nothing about punching," Joey nudged Stephen''s shoulder.


    "You did, Joey. Though, it was not a direct encouragement. But your words were more than enough to give Stephen a hint to proceed a blow. No matter how indirect, your words can still incite anger. I can repeat what you said back there if you have doubts?" Sofia offered.


    "No need. I now remember what I said. I am not mindful at that time and just speak casually. It won''t happen again, Sof," Joey replied after realizing what Sofia meant.


    "Be mindful," Sofia eyed him and Joey repeatedly nodded his head.


    "Those gallant gamer squad... we have never encountered them during the last tournament. Why do they call you out in their interview, Sof?" Claire curiously expressed.


    "It''s not about the previous tournament. Sometimes, a single achievement can make someone create an illusion of superiority," Sofia subconsciously replied.


    "Huh? An illusion of superiority? What''s that mean?" Joey and Clark gave her a confused look.


    "Oh...well, it''s just them. Because their squad got the sponsorship of the academia, they probably felt that they had the privilege to trash talk me in their interview," Sofia clarified.


    "Ahh... but, there are so many squads that have more accomplishment than us. Why are they particularly targeting us? To think that we are in the same school but they are attacking us, it''s really hard to understand their action. They can just trash talk other opponents, right?" Claire exhaled and felt frustrated.


    "I''m not bothered by it. Trash talking is nothing. Guys, we should focus our attention on our endorsement project. Tomorrow, let''s do our best! It will be a super busy day. Make sure you rest properly. We will meet at the intersection street as early as 5 AM. Bring your school uniforms," Sofia diverted the subject of their conversation while looking at Stephen and Joey.


    "5 AM! Why so early? Sof, can''t we go at 7 AM?" Joey asked.


    "No, it has to be 5 AM. We will examine and make sure that everything is set, Joey. It''s not early. Sister Jing is counting all the headcounts of our customers for tomorrow by their reservation. She will coordinate with the kitchen staff from the Double Sigma fraternity to estimate the needed ingredients for our menu. Guys, tomorrow is really a busy day. I''m not exaggerating this. So tonight, be sure to gather as much energy as you can, okay?" Sofia spoke with a serious expression on her face.


    "Okay. But, what about you? Last night, you barely rest. Tonight, what about skipping your class, Sof? You also need to rest," Claire suggested.


    "No need. I don''t feel tired with this. I''m excited for tomorrow," Sofia smiled. Then, she took a small piece of paper from her pocket and hand it to Clark. "This is the receipt of our uniforms. Clark, please meet with Danny. He is already in that tailoring shop to pick up the shirts."


    "I will go with you," Claire presented.


    "Me too," Joey and Stephen joined.


    "The four of you then. Go and get our uniforms. I''ll chat the contact number of Danny," Sofia giggled. "I have to attend class now. Bye-bye!"


    The four members waved their hands.. "Bye, Sof. See you!"

 Chapter 276 - Perhaps A Coincidence?

    As they walked in a separate way, Sofia speed up her pace, almost jogging towards her classroom. Her right hand was holding her hair to prevent the strands from flying everywhere. Even so, she sprinted with a dignified style that some school staff could not help but gawked at her figure.


    When she arrived, it was just in time as her teacher was approaching to enter the room. Sofia halted her steps and casually combed her hair with her fingers.


    "Good afternoon, ma''am," she politely greeted while slightly panting. She stood straight and let her teacher walk ahead.


    "Mmn. I''ve seen what happened at the gate, Miss Su. You''ve handled it with proper decency. I could tell that you are experienced in neutralizing such incidents. Well done!" her teacher praised and took the liberty to step inside the room. A small book was in her hand with a scribbled bold font. But, Sofia could not read the title as some letters were concealed by her fingers.


    Such compliment contained sincerity however, Sofia had received countless commendations in her past life. So, the words from her teacher were something that she had regarded as pretty normal.


    Sofia simply nodded her head as a form of acknowledgment. She was about to move her feet when a momentary realization dawned in her mind. To receive this kind of praise, a student must reciprocate! Otherwise, her teacher may think that she was looking down on such a sincere compliment.


    She paused and looked on the floor. A kind of gesture she deliberately made to appear almost shy being complimented.


    "Thank you, ma''am.  I just have to protect my friends. Hope no more incident like that will happen again," Sofia finally trailed behind.


    "Hmmn. Continue to grow as a wise leader. You are a reliable friend to them. Go take your set," the teacher spoke and place the small book on her desk.


    For some reason unknown to her, Sofia was quite drawn to the small book. Her eyes shifted towards the desk for a few seconds. Now that her teacher finally put it down, she could read the title.


    But, after reading the title, her eyes constricted and the beating of her heart immediately quickened. She subconsciously touched her chest to calm down.


    There were only two words in the title. But, it was enough for her to feel uneasy and conscious.


    ''Butterfly Effect''


    Sofia quickly occupied a chair in the back row. After reading the title of the book, countless questions also rushed into her mind. However, she tried to force herself not to dwell on the doubts that were bubbling in her thoughts.


    ''I''ve already faced death once, what is there to fear? It must be a coincidence,'' she tried to convince herself.


    With her circumstance, Sofia was knowledgeable of the theory of the butterfly effect.


    Was it really a coincidence? Deep down in her heart, something was telling her that it might not be just a coincidence.


    She would formally operate her business tomorrow. Could it be that the heavens had sent her a warning? Or perhaps a reminder?


    ''No way! I have no ill intention of harming anyone. There should not be a problem,'' Sofia thought again. This time, she secretly took a deep breath.


    While Sofia was in a deep trance, she was completely not aware that her classmates were already staring at her...


    Her teacher had asked the entire class, "Who among you here have witnessed the incident at the gate today?"


    "Ma''am, we saw it online. We even put our comments to support Sofia!" one of the replied proudly.


    "The face of the reporter after she said her apologies look like she was about to cry!" another one stated.


    "Our school does not promote cyberbullying, class. I don''t encourage you to post mean comments online. Look at Miss Su. Did you see her commenting about the incident? You should follow her example," the teacher announced after students started to boast what they had done during the live broadcast.


    With her reprimanding words, the entire class went in complete silence.


    "That''s right! Miss Su is more concerned about your exams than what is happening on your social media. So, as a good exemplary student, let''s give Miss Su a round of applause. I hope all of you in the night class section can act like her during that kind of situation," their teacher encouraged.


    And the burst of sound from their clapping erupted.


    Only then did Sofia snap back her senses and set aside her suspicions. She looked around with an unaffected expression on her face.


    "What is happening?" she whispered towards her seatmate. For a while, it was as if her entire focus was on the title of the book that she did not hear the brief interaction in the classroom.


    "Our teacher said you deserve a round of applause because of what you have done at the gate. The one with the reporter on the live broadcast. You were amazing!" her seatmate exclaimed.


    "Thank you!" Sofia formally stated while slightly bowing her head and offered a friendly smile at them.


    "Alright, settle down. We will have a proper discussion today. I will give a summative test tomorrow," the teacher stated and everyone quickly sat straight.


    Sofia closed her eyes for a moment and tried to exhale all worries in her mind. While the teacher started explaining the topic that she had long learned, her thoughts drifted to another notion.


    ''Claire has a tendency of easily getting nervous... Joey has a mild brazen attitude, Clark is indecisive, and Stephen and violence is a serious matter,'' she pondered all the characteristics that she had observed from her team.


    The incident in the gate had given her the certainty of their characters. And the small book had given her a different perspective.


    ''The Chronos squad may be a team and can work harmoniously but my members have to grow as an individual too. Otherwise, if one day something ominous really happens to me... they might suffer,'' Sofia sighed once more. She was more than aware that for her to help her team grow as an individual, she had to address their weakness.


    "Are you okay, Sofia? You seemed to be out of focus," Sofia''s seatmate asked her softly after she heard her numerous sighs.


    "I''m fine," Sofia replied.


    "Are you worried about that live broadcast? I am now one of your fans. I hope you can see you play in the tournament! But, if you won''t play, it''s also fine. Our study is also important," her seatmate stated.


    "I did not know that you play online games?" Sofia smiled.


    "Ohh, not many online games. But, I do enjoy playing a few of it."


    Sofia smiled and replied, "If we are in good condition to participate, we will definitely play in the tournament. Right now, there are just other responsibilities that we need to handle. We are taking things one at a time. Or else, we will be exhausted."


    "You know, one of my friends at work said that maybe your squad is processing a club contract. And that is the reason why you haven''t registered in the tournament."


    "There is such a thing? How did they come up with the idea that we are processing a club contract?" Sofia was surprised by the speculation.


    "Well, up until now, there is no club that is holding your squad. So, they assumed that."


    "We have a club. It''s TCESC. About the registration, we actually have an endorsement project and the photo shoot is tomorrow. So, our time to practice playing is limited. But, we may really join eventually. It depends," Sofia chuckled.


    "Really? What are you endorsing? I''ll be sure to support that brand," her seatmate beamed.


    "It''s sneaker shoes. You''ll know the brand once the photo shoot will be published. Hehe, it''s quite a reliable company," Sofia answered.


    With their chitchatting, a shadow of their teacher suddenly appeared in the side.


    "Miss Su, I just praised you. Now, you are chitchatting during my discussion? Care to share what the two of you had been talking about?" the teacher sternly expressed.


    Sofia and her seatmate looked at each other for a spilt second and shared a conflicted expression on their faces.


    "I''m sorry, ma''am. It''s my fault. I was the one who asked Sofia a question," her seatmate raised her hand before Sofia could speak a word.


    The teacher glanced at Sofia''s seatmate but, just as she was about to scold them, her attention was also interrupted when a figure emerged in her peripheral view.


    She tilted her face and look at the figure. "Kristelle, you are late!"


    Kristelle planned to sneak inside. But now that she failed to go unnoticed, her figure quickly froze. Then, she smiled sheepishly and said, "Ma''am, I won''t do it again. I promise!"


    "Young lady, why are you late this time? Do you know that I have lost count of your promises about not coming late to my class?" the teacher finally left at Sofia''s side and walked back to her desk.


    "My ride got engine trouble, ma''am. I have to walk 50 meters to come here. It is not really my intention to come late," Kristelle explained.


    "Go sit. Make sure this is the last time you will speak of your empty promises," the teacher instructed with a frown on her forehead.


    In a flash, Kristelle sat on the empty chair situated on the other side next to Sofia''s seatmate.


    "You save us," the seatmate giggled and started chitchatting with the newcomer.


    Sofia adjusted her body in a comfortable sitting position and shook her head while looking at them.

 Chapter 277 - Life Is Fair?

    All throughout the discussion until almost the time of the dismissal of the class, Sofia''s attention was not on her teacher. But, she did not also engage in chitchat either.


    Her eyes trained at the front and stared at the scribbled words on the whiteboard. She was just pretending to listen to her teacher while thinking of suitable arrangements to let her friends grow.


    ''Personal growth, career growth, financial growth...'' Sofia sighed deeply once more.


    Her seatmate give her a strange look and whispered, "That is your 11th sigh. Sofia, if you have difficult problems, you can talk to me. I''m a good listener! You are obviously bothered by something. If you don''t let that out, it will suffocate you!"


    "I''m fine. There is no difficult problem. I''m just nervous about tomorrow. It''s our first time to do the shooting," Sofia quickly found an alibi. "Thanks!" she added with a small smile.


    Her seatmate nodded her head and looked convinced.


    In fact, Sofia''s troubles that caused her to sigh in deep frustration were not about the growth of her members. Something about growth is nothing to her. She was certain that they would grow together whether it is as a team or as an individual. She would not doubt her capability.


    However, no matter how she forced herself to dismiss the foreboding feeling about the small book in her teacher''s desk, there is a silent voice in her head that kept bothering her. As if the silent voice was telling her, ''Be careful!'' Or something more.


    ''I won''t cancel my plans for tomorrow. I won''t,'' Sofia mentally said as if she was also addressing the silent voice within her. As if the source of that silent voice could hear her thoughts...


    Sofia could somehow foresee the effect of her plans for tomorrow. The day they operate their business, it won''t just be a wind that would blow mildly and make its presence known to the corporate world. No. Rather, their operation would be like a hurricane that would urge different kinds of attention from every meticulous competitor.


    In such an underdeveloped district, she was sure that what will happen tomorrow would alert potential enemies.


    However, she also knew that this was the price that they had to face. Just like the sea, since she intends to do a big wave and swoop all the profits for her business, it is impossible not to stir the water in their surrounding. After all, every action has corresponding consequences.


    "Let''s end the discussion here. Tomorrow, be sure to prepare for the test," the teacher declared.


    After bidding their goodbyes, the students hastily left the room. But, Sofia did not walk out with them. She just stood next to her chair and waited until every single classmate were out.


    "Miss Su, do you have concerns?" her teacher questioned. She was holding the small book in her left hand and the set of keys in her right hand.


    "Ma''am, about the test tomorrow," Sofia spoke softly.


    "What about it? This is the last test before the final exam," the teacher stated.


    "Ma''am, I intend not to come to class tomorrow. There is a responsibility that I had to finish. Is it okay to do the test next week?" Sofia asked. Her tone was polite but her words made her teacher look at her with disbelief.


    "You intend?! Miss Su, no one has ever used that words as an introduction for an excuse to absent," the teacher chuckled after recovering from her momentary surprised.


    "It''s not an excuse. I won''t be here tomorrow, Ma''am," Sofia replied with a clear meaning of her intention. She was not asking for any permission to be absent from the class. She was just merely informing her teacher that she can''t attend or take her test tomorrow.


    "Ohh... o-okay. Well, I will prepare a different set of questions for next week. It will be a harder test than tomorrow," the teacher said.


    "Thank you for your understanding, ma''am. Good night!" Sofia smiled. She was about to walk out of the door when she heard her teacher speak again.


    "I''m rather curious about that responsibility that you would do tomorrow, Miss Su. Share some details with me while we walk to the gate?" her teacher said.


    They walked side by side and stepped outside. Sofia waited until the teacher finished locking their classroom door.


    "I have an important job tomorrow, ma''am. It will be finished beyond 9 PM," Sofia simply replied not giving any details of her business. She could promote their services but, she did not intend to reveal that she owned the business.


    "Ohh, I see... I see... All of you in my night class section is really hard working. Hang in there, you will soon graduate," the teacher expressed feeling sympathetic to all her student''s situations. "Do you feel like life is unfair, Miss Su?" she suddenly asked.


    "In what context, Ma''am?" Sofia immediately answered her teacher''s question with another one. If it was about having advantages, surely, Sofia had every experience she needed that it was indeed unfair for others.


    "You know, some students are born with all support. They don''t need to work. On the other hand, you need to work beyond 9 PM while schooling. Do you feel that life is unfair?" the teacher elaborated.


    ''Ahhh...'' Sofia smiled and look up at the sky. With the darkness of the night, all the stars looked so bright. She stared for a moment and thought, ''It turns out, she wants to assess my emotional state.''


    If it was probably the original Sofia, the teen would definitely confirm and agree with how unfair life is. Yet, her? It''s but a completely different perspective.


    "If it''s about time management and the ability to earn money while studying, I think... life is pretty fair, ma''am. Those who learned skills earlier will no longer suffer when they get older. And those who did not learn such skills earlier will find it hard to survive in life as they get older," Sofia mumbled.


    "Pretty fair? Hmmn... why do you say so?" the teacher asked further.


    "I know a girl who is so rich that she grow up dependent on the money of her parents. She did not need to do anything at all," Sofia paused as she tried to form the scenario on her mind.


    "Hmmn," the teacher hummed and waited for her to continue.


    "But something happened to her parents and they lost their money. Because she was too dependent and did not learn any skills, she lived a hard life now. It was a real struggle," Sofia made up.


    "Poor girl," the teacher mumbled and shook her head.


    "Given her situation, I couldn''t help but wonder, Ma''am. Which is really fair? And which is unfair? Is it unfair that her parents made her dependent on their money which caused her to have a hard life? If that is the case, then I have to be thankful for getting the opportunity to learn to be independent at an early age. In the future, it won''t be hard for me to deal with life," Sofia finished.


    For a while, only the sound of crickets in their surrounding could be heard. The teacher was also lost in her words. She did not expect that Sofia would give her such meaningful response.


    "What I mean is... life is unfair for everyone and that makes it fair. Because we all experience situations that are hard to deal. And when it comes to learning the right skills to live, life is actually fair. Hardships are inevitable. No one is exempted from it," Sofia continued since her teacher did not make a sound.


    Then, she added in her thoughts, ''Even the richest man who looked like he has a perfect life would also have his fair share of hardship. Sometimes, they are just dealing with their hardship in silence. There is no such thing as perfect life in this world.''


    "Miss Su, you''ve made me speechless! The way you see things is far beyond your age! I''m impressed by your maturity," the teacher finally spoke.


    "I''ve watched videos that talk about philosophy in life, Ma''am. They are everywhere on the internet. They also have a quite interesting discussion," Sofia stated. They have reached the exit gate and her teacher''s car was already a few steps away from them.


    "This talk is very interesting, Miss Su. Since you found those videos, continue watching, okay? They are meant to inspire youths like you," the teacher stated. "Here is my ride. Where do you live? I''ll share you a ride."


    "Thank you for the offer, Ma''am. But, I''m just on that building. Take care," Sofia pointed to her apartment a few meters across the street.


    "Then, I''ll see you next week. Good luck on your job tomorrow!" the teacher smiled at Sofia before she pulled the car door open and went inside.


    Sofia waved her hand and waited until the car drove off.


    Not long after, she crossed the pedestrian lane and slowly walked towards her apartment.


    She made a quick stop at Claire''s unit to check if her friend was already there. But, when she made a turn, she noticed that all the lights in the room were switched off. ''Strange. She''s not yet here?''


    Sofia checked her phone, however, the screen flashed a notification and indicated that she was low battery before it turned off.


    "Did they go somewhere else after going to the intersection street? Or is she asleep now?" she wondered and finally moved her feet towards her unit.

 Chapter 278 - Player DEATH & The Slayer_Gods Squad

    Sofia entered her apartment unit and was welcomed by the sight of Heiz with the usual face mask covering her face. Her baby was sleeping peacefully in the sofa. However, when Sofia looked closely at her face, she noticed something different...


    "Hi, sis! Claire came here earlier. She brought you a shirt and she also said that she would sleep early tonight. But if she won''t be able to wake up at 5 AM using her alarm clock, you are free to enter her place with this key and wake her up personally," Heiz reported and gave Sofia a key to Claire''s apartment.


    "Thanks, sister Heiz! No wonder all lights in her place are switched off," Sofia accepted the key and took the shirt. It was the uniform that they would use in their business. "This is good. The tailor is indeed reliable," she muttered after inspecting the stitches of their logo.


    After contemplating for a while, Sofia looked up and stared at Heiz again. Then, she asked, "The color of your eyes... is that the real color?"


    Heiz''s eyes were almost pitch black when she first met her. But, now, the color was a striking coral green!


    "Hahaha, yes. Sis, I like using contact lenses. I have a few colors and used them alternately. I''m resting my eyes," Heiz replied with a hint of shyness in her voice.


    "The natural color of your eyes is so captivating, sis Heiz. I think Hazel has taken that color," Sofia casually replied and took her charger. "I will be early tomorrow. Please take care of my apartment, sis. And just in case there will be a need for money, there is a box on the counter. You can use the cash there," Sofia added and gestured to Heiz in the direction of the counter situated near the shoe rack.


    "Thank you for being so kind to me, sis! Good night!" Heiz replied while watching Sofia''s figure going to her room.


    "No need to thank me. It is the right thing to do. Good night, sis! Please have a rest too. If Hazel wake''s up, you will lose your opportunity to get your rest," Sofia stated and finally entered her room.


    She left her phone switched off but made sure to connect it to the charger before she changed her clothes and went to bed.


    A thought came to her mind after she closed her eyes. ''I have nothing to fear for tomorrow and the succeeding days to come. Come what may...''


    The night is still young but all members of the Chronos squad had resigned into a deep sleep. Only the gossips that circulated online about them were still restless.


    The live broadcast had long been ended. But, in other gaming clubs, some squad leaders were just watching it. Some random professional players tried to search them if they are in the game but to their dismay, all the members of the Chronos squad were offline.


    District 6, E-Sports VI Gaming Club Training Base


    Ten people consisting of 9 professional gamers and one coach sat silently in the dark training room. There were five main players seated on the left. The coach was standing in front of them. And there were other four respected players on the right side. A projector was placed on the center table that displayed the live broadcast.


    On the right side were Sofia''s acquaintances, the Fab_Gamers Squad. On the left side is pro players of Slayer_Gods Squad. All of them were wearing the same color of jackets. But, the printed logo on the back was totally different.


    Two different squads but they were signed and handled by the same club.


    "The club had decided for my squad to participate in the regional tournament. But, coach, why are we watching gossip on social media instead of discussing our strategies? It''s not even certain if that Chronos squad would really participate. Let''s focus on our other opponents," the squad leader of Slayer_Gods squad complained while the video of the live broadcast was still being projected.


    This man was in his early twenties and was using an in-game name DEATH. His member''s in-game names were also associated with his: Extinguisher_Mage, Extinction, Last_HP, Lifeless_Combo. Their names were stitched beautifully at the back of their jackets.


    Their coach listened to him attentively before he shifted his attention to the other side. "Squad leader WINS, you have told me that the Chronos squad will participate? Can you confirm it to squad leader DEATH?"


    "The Chronos squad has a direct invitation to participate in the tournament. CEO UNRIVALED, their leader told me the last time we have chatted. They will accept the invitation once they finish their responsibility at school," WINS calmly replied.


    "Direct invitations are mostly given to prominent clubs. But, their squad manage to get one. This proves that the organizers of the tournament had determined that they have the skills to compete with other squads," the coach stated thoughtfully.


    "Please keep it a secret. CEO UNRIVALED wished to announce their participation personally," WINS added to remind the people inside the room not to leak the information in social media.


    "I''ve seen posts that also claimed that their victory is purely beginner''s luck. In that case, it''s easy to defeat them," DEATH grunted and smirked at WINS.


    "Do you agree about the beginner''s luck, squad leader WINS?" the coach questioned him.


    "W-well... I watched their game that time. And I have spoken with all of them too. It''s not as simple as luck. Just observe that live video and focus on CEO UNRIVALED. You will have a better idea of their squad rather than reading a random hate post against them," WINS prompted and everyone returned their focus on the video.


    "I have analyzed their gameplay last time. It was well-calculated. They have skills," the coach added.


    "Not just their gaming skills, coach. They also have market value. It had been weeks since the championship of the district tournament had happened. Normally, the talks on social media would have been neutralized. But, for some reason, they maintained their names as hot topics," WINS added.


    "Ahh... the concept of getting a private press helped them to stay on the trending topic. Now, they had been using it as a good excuse to be mysterious so the netizens could continue to speculate about them," DEATH commented with a cold glare to WINS direction.


    "Maybe? But, that''s not the point of this meeting. We are here watching this new trending video so that your Slayer_Gods squad will have an understanding of your opponent''s character. Don''t underestimate them," WINS stated. "Their gameplay is not just about teamwork and coordination in the game. Their individual characters are significant in the way they play."


    WINS stood from his seat. The video was finished. He switched on the lights of the room and joined their coach.


    "The video is finished. I''ll ask your squad member... what is their observation of the Chronos squad? Let''s start with Extinguisher, bro..." WINS hinted.


    "I''m not really sure, squad leader WINS. But, based on what I''ve seen... I think that their marksman user is domineering. When he demanded not to block their path, the students looked terrified of him. Their fighter user seemed cool. He just laugh. The mage user is probably not much of a talker. He did not say anything there. The assassin user is a nice girl. She seems frightened," Extinguisher_Mage immediately described what he saw. His tone was respectful despite knowing that there was a hidden conflict between WINS and DEATH.


    "Good observation, bro. But there is one important point that I have to emphasize in the video. Just take a look at all their reaction here... look at this," WINS said and moved his feet towards the computer that was connected to the projector.


    Then, he adjusted the video to the time when Sofia arrived... He even zoomed the reaction of every Chronos member, each have a distinctive smile on their face but they were not looking at the camera.


    "That expressions... no matter how dominant their marksman user had acted or how cool their fighter user... look at them. The four of them smiled in perfect synchrony because CEO UNRIVALED arrived. In the game, that is how they execute their gameplay. The core of their teamwork and coordination is CEO UNRIVALED. Your squad can only win against them if you will disable her first. Focus on the strategy that will disable her character in the game and you can easily annihilate her members." WINS finished and return to his seat.


    Their coach nodded his head and clasped both his hands. "That''s very clear. We have to target the damage taker instead of their damage dealer. This is not an ideal way of fighting against other opponents. But, this is the hypothetical way of dealing with the Chronos squad."


    "I hope your Slayer_Gods squad could form a good rotation strategy. Targeting and eliminating the tank first is very difficult on the battlefield. That''s all for me. We will take our leave," WINS stated and signaled his members to go.


    "Thank you for your insights, squad leader WINS," the coach said before the four players left the meeting room.


    "Your welcome, coach. Good luck!" WINS replied without looking at them.


    DEATH was silent for a few seconds. His members did not speak a word too. And neither was the coach.


    After a while, DEATH questioned, "We can probably deploy two marksmen and give up support? This way we can maximize our damage to the tank."


    "Good idea, squad leader DEATH. Just do what you think is most effective. I have to go now," the coach said and hastily left the room.


    All the member''s expressions turned dark while watching the figure of the coach exit the meeting room.


    "Why did the club assign that coach to us? It''s obvious that he does not like our squad! He did not even care what we would do!" Extinction grumbled.


    "Let''s just play. He is upset that we are playing in the tournament. He wants the FAB_Gamers to play instead of us," DEATH sighed.


    "Then, he should tell WINS of what he wants! He is venting his disappointment on us!?" Last_HP also expressed.


    "Haha, our coach can''t do anything. It was WINS who requested the club that his FAB_Gamers be excluded from the tournament to avoid issues about conflict of interest. WINS told me that he regarded the Chronos squad as close friends. And the club bosses know it. If his squad will not get the victory of this tournament, they might accuse him of giving away the match. It will tarnish his image," DEATH bitterly replied.


    WINS may have his reasons, but, deep down in his heart, DEATH really felt that WINS was just using him and his Slayer_Gods squad as a shield of his FAB_Gamers image.. He could not help but felt irritated by the idea.

 Chapter 279 - A Box Of Tea

    "Boss DEATH, how about talking to WINS again about how to defeat the Chronos squad? It seems like he knows more about the Chronos squad... more than what he was telling to us earlier?" Lifeless_Combo suggested.


    "It had been so long that I see him play. I just don''t understand why he is giving such importance to that squad. It is my first time seeing WINS acted like this. Even the other known squad does not receive this kind of regard from him," DEATH expressed and exhaled loudly.


    "Imagine, if we will follow such gameplay... we will be a laughingstock by the other pro players! Heck, even noobs already know that damage dealers must be targeted first! Why should we waste our skills to target a tank when there is a mage or marksman that we can chase and slay? Ridiculous!" Extinction said and forcefully scratched his head.


    "I agree. That strategy is not effective. I''ll see if WINS has another strategy. I''ll be back," DEATH stated and stood from his seat. He strode out of the training room and went to the left path.


    The E-Sports Club that handled them was one of the grandest in terms of accommodating pro players. The club owned an estate and every squad that signed a contract with them had their separate villas within. Even though they were in the same location, the privacy and convenience of the squads were highly regarded.


    Villas could be considered as the pro players'' official residence as long as their contract is active. And every appointed squad leader was responsible for taking care of their member as well as the entire building.


    After five minutes of walking, DEATH stopped at the doorstep of the villa owned FAB_Gamers Squad. The design of the building was identical to his Slayer_Gods Villa. But, just like the jackets they wore, the only difference was their squad name and the logo of their group that was plastered on the door.


    DEATH took out a box of expensive cigarettes from the pocket of his jacket. He then pressed the doorbell on the side of the door.


    Less than a minute and the door was pulled open from the inside. WINS looked surprised seeing DEATH on his doorstep. "What''s up?" he asked.


    "I need your explanation. At least, you owe me one this time," DEATH stated with not a hint of emotion on his face. He opened the box of cigarettes but WINS raised a hand to stop him.


    "I''m trying to stop smoking. Come in," WINS invited him.


    "Huh? Your place turned into a no-smoking zone? I need to smoke or else I can''t concentrate," DEATH frowned and stepped inside. He continued to grab a stick of cigarette from the box and fished out his lighter.


    WINS raised his eyebrow and give him a stern look. "I''m serious. I am trying to stop smoking. No one smokes in my villa anymore."


    "I can''t concentrate with out this! D*mn! Since when did you have that kind of change?" DEATH grumbled in annoyance. He gritted his teeth and tightened his grip to the cigarette.


    "Then, I''ll ask you to go out," WINS smirked.


    "Tsk! I hate that smug look on your face! Fine! Not gonna smoke!" DEATH conceded and place the cigarette box back in his pocket. "To think that it was you who influenced me to smoke in the first place. Now, you are actually acting like this!" he added.


    "Are you here to talk about the past?" WINS asked. He went to the dining area and opened one cabinet. DEATH casually followed him behind.


    "Do you want tea?" WINS offered.


    "TEA!? WTF!!! I have never imagined that a day would come when you will offer me a cup of tea! WINS... the heck is happening to you these days?!" DEATH wrinkled his face, feeling repulsed by the idea of drinking tea and the complete change to the person he was once considered a close friend. ''Was.'' His eyes went to the dining table and realized that there were indeed teacups at the center.


    "Well, I''ve been chatting with a certain someone. And she told me that once health is compromised... before I know it, the money that I saved for years will vanish in a blink of an eye. And I also realized that I wouldn''t want to have a lung transplant because I stubbornly kept on smoking. So, I switched to drinking tea. It''s the same difference in terms of bitterness. You can concentrate by drinking tea. Try it," WINS explained with a gentle smile on his face.


    Surprisingly, the entire cabinet that he just opened was filled with boxes and boxes of tea. DEATH''s eyes widened after he saw the number of boxes in there.


    "Here, I''ll give you one box. Bring it to your villa. If you need more, I''ll sell these boxes," WINS stated and pushed the box near DEATH. The boy absentmindedly accepted the box and looked very conflicted.


    "You are selling tea?" DEATH asked in disbelief.


    "Only to you, hahaha" WINS chuckled and pull a chair for them to take a seat. "Have a sit."


    The other members of the FAB_Gamers Squad were live streaming. But, they only finished one match stopped their streams after they saw who visited their place. They secretly peeked at the two squad leaders in the dining area through the CCTV monitor.


    "Guys, did you know? There was a famous MMORPG before. The guild DEATH WINS was the top leaderboard in the global ranking," the first member to navigate the CCTV monitor stated.


    "I was playing that MMORPG too. DEATH WINS Guild is damn OP! I''ve always wanted to join them. But, they suddenly vanish. No one can defeat that guild even in cross-server guild wars before," the second member supplied.


    "Those two were founders of that guild. Boss WINS and squad leader DEATH. It was said that they are best buddies before they joined the E-sports club. But because they play the same marksman role as the main character in the 5 v 5, the club had to assign them a separate squad for a balanced lineup. And then their rivalry started to emerge," the first member whispered while looking at the interaction of two leaders in the monitor.


    "I think they are still friends... even though there is awkwardness in their position as squad leaders. Look, they are still using their in-game names which means they can''t let go of their gaming memories together. And boss WINS even took the initiative to give DEATH a strategy for the tournament," another member speculated.


    While these members continued to watch at the monitor, WINS suddenly tilted his face and looked at the camera. With his action, the members lurking and were watching on the monitor instantly docked their heads as if they wanted to hide.


    Then, after a while, the members stifled their laughter because of how silly their reaction was.


    Their squad leader was just looking at the camera. But, they had a momentary feeling that he was directly staring at them through the monitor!


    Just as they started to relax, a stern voice of WINS resounded all over the place.


    "GO BACK TO YOUR STREAM! WHOEVER GOT THE LEAST GIFTS FROM FANS TONIGHT WILL DUST THE VILLA!"


    Everyone quickly scrambled their feet and return to their seats.


    "My gosh! How did boss WINS know that we are watching him?"


    "He is just so perceptive! Turn on your camera and mic! Let''s ask for gifts! I don''t want to clean!"


    In just a matter of minutes, the members hastily took their phones and resumed their streams.

 Chapter 280 - Revealing The Strategy

    "You just love bossing around your squad members, do you?" DEATH stated in a condescending tone while tapping his fingers in the box of tea.


    "I''m not bossing them. I plan to go and stream too. You are just disturbing my plan by coming here," WINS returned in a domineering manner.


    DEATH sighed and his expression turned serious. "Do you realize what you have said in the training room? Do you want my team to target the tank user of the Chronos squad? It would be the most embarrassing gameplay in the history of my career if I follow that advice! Are you deliberately sabotaging me, WINS?"


    "Why would I sabotage you? Tsk! I just said that the gameplay of the Chronos squad is centralized in CEO UNRIVALED. If you don''t believe me, then, I won''t force you!" WINS shrugged. He leaned his back comfortably and crossed his arms around his chest.


    "That''s right! You said to target CEO UNRIVALED first and we can eliminate all her members. So, if you think it is a practical way, how many skills and opportunities should we waste to even kill a tank?! Isn''t that direct sabotage?" DEATH gritted his teeth and glared at him.


    "My gosh! I remember only saying that targeting a tank on the battlefield is really difficult. I did not say that you should target a tank! Are you stupid to target a tank? And you still don''t have a strategy in your head? Has your perception level become so low?" WINS chuckled. A flash of playfulness came into his mind.


    "Ahhh... feel free to throw insults at me. I won''t fight back. But, I''m really not getting your hints! Just tell me directly how to deal with them!" DEATH demanded in a desperate tone.


    WINS shook his head and uncrossed his arms. He stretched his body and legs then yawned. "Boring. Talking to you right now is already a loss for me. I could have gained many gifts from my fans if I streamed. You better compensate me with your normal account!"


    "You are on purpose! You really want to insult me," DEATH coldly said. Both of his hands clasped in the box of tea tightly that the box was almost deformed. He was losing his temper.


    "Hehe," WINS looked at him in the eye and stared at the box of tea that was almost destroyed. "Don''t damage that box. That tea is expensive! If it spills in my floor, you will pay monetary value for it! CASH!"


    DEATH quickly released the box and took a deep breath. He did not want to argue with WINS as it was very inappropriate. He needed the help and not the other end. But the man was deliberately provoking him! He could only swallow all the things that he wanted to talk back.


    "Alright, alright! DEATH, calm down first and focus on my lecture," WINS said and turned serious too. "What I said earlier, isn''t it that you have to disable CEO UNRIVALED? I was not saying you have to target a tank."


    "So? You are making this so complicated!" DEATH exclaimed and almost pulled his hair in frustration.


    "My gosh! I can''t believe that I need to spell everything for you! Think DEATH, think! How can you disable CEO UNRIVALED? You should focus on that," WINS calmly urged him.


    "Then, how to disable CEO UNRIVALED? I wouldn''t be here if I know!" DEATH responded impatiently.


    "Bro, you really don''t know?" WINS playfully sighed. He also raised his eyebrows several times.


    "That is making me angry. Come on, just spill it," DEATH run his fingers to his hair just so he could remain calm.


    "You know, I was actually expecting that you already have the strategy of how to deal with the Chronos squad. I''m basically spoon-feeding here. But, seeing that you are still lost, I will give you another hint. What is the newest feature of the game that will be applied in the regional tournament?"


    "The newest feature in the game..." DEATH mumbled. Then after a few seconds, his eyes constricted and understanding flashed in his face. "HAHAHA... I have... my goodness, I am so... HAHAHA" DEATH suddenly laughed with an incomprehensible statement. His face glowed in joy.


    "Well, it seems that you have left your brain in your villa," WINS offered him a friendly smile.


    "That strategy, I finally understand. How can I not think of it earlier?" DEATH gave him a sheepish grin.


    "As I said, it was only you who was having the idiotic idea of targeting a tank first. I merely told you to disable CEO UNRIVALED. Given that there is a ban feature now. Then, utilize it. Ban her tank and force her to use a different character. Then, you can devise a rotation that will corner her in the map," WINS expressed the strategy.


    "Yes, I got it now. I just overlooked the new feature," DEATH exhaled. "But, I don''t understand... Since you have thought of this strategy, why did you refuse to join the tournament? You even requested to the club to delegate my squad."


    WINS only smiled. He reached for a teacup and teapot. Then, he poured himself a drink. "I don''t want to be their opponent. My squad will definitely attend that tournament as audience. But, I will not cheer for your Slayer_Gods squad. I will discreetly cheer for the Chronos squad. Hahaha..."


    "Bah! You just want to use my squad to protect your perfect image! In case this Chronos squad will defeat you, the club will definitely blame you for the loss," DEATH said with a visible disappointment in his voice.


    "What makes you think that I need to use your squad to protect my image? Since when did I do that?" WINS clicked his tongue and crossed his legs. He stared at DEATH with a challenging look.


    "What else could be your reason other than protecting your image? You said it was to avoid conflict of interest," DEATH answered with the same look as him.


    "It''s true that I want to avoid conflict of interest. I was actually trying to recruit CEO UNRIVALED and her members so we can play side by side. They have no club yet. Our club will definitely give them a contract. But, she refused my invitation and said she is still a student and doesn''t want to stop her studies because of club requirements," WINS explained.


    "Wow! She refused money? Signing a contract to the club that handled us is one of the greatest luck a gamer could have. Unless they are like that Lee Gaming squad that was composed of insanely rich teens! Then, they won''t really need a club. Did you tell her our salary and benefits?" DEATH expressed in full of disbelief.


    "I did not disclose the exact information. That''s classified data. But, I told her that her team will really have extreme convenience and funds. Sponsorships and endorsements are too easy to get," WINS stated.


    "And she refused? I am now so curious about this CEO UNRIVALED! How did she refuse?" DEATH commented with a glint of enthusiasm in his eyes.


    "Well, she actually gave me a reasonable explanation. She said that the Chronos squad is not just a team to her. Her members were also like her family. So, she wished to play with them together. But---" WINS paused and felt a little melancholic.


    "But what?" DEATH asked.


    "I don''t want to tell you. I felt like betraying her if I said it," WINS softly replied. He was about to say that Sofia had told him that Clark, their mage user is not that skillful yet. If they join a club, most likely, Clark will be left behind. She did not want that to happen.


    "Then, I won''t force you to say it. I''m glad you could find someone that you want to connect with. You''re not in love with CEO UNRIVALED, right?" DEATH chuckled.


    "Nonsense! I admire her leadership and decisive character. She is young but very capable! I am not thinking of her in a romantic way," WINS rolled his eyes and shook his head. He then drank his entire tea and stood straight. "It''s getting late. I need to stream. Go back to your villa and focus on your strategy." he added and move his hand to gesture the door to DEATH.


    "Then, thank you for allowing me to disturb you. I really appreciate this conversation. Everything is clear to me now. I can finally train my members," DEATH replied and picked the box of tea.


    "Actually, I still have to remind you. DEATH, don''t underestimate the Chronos squad. Instruct your members not to be complacent if ever you meet them in the match. Unless you destroy their base, there is still a great tendency of a comeback. Since I have thought of this strategy, CEO UNRIVALED might have already something up in her sleeves to counter her squad''s weakness," WINS concluded.


    "I will practice now. Sorry to trouble you," DEATH stated.


    "I won''t see you out. I have to stream now.. Kindly lock the door after you leave," WINS requested.

 Chapter 281 - WINS Streaming (1)

    DEATH stepped outside the FAB_Gamers villa full of energy. For a while, he stared at the stary sky and mumbled, "It had been so long since I watch the sky at night. The regional tournament, my squad must bring victory."


    With the amount of excitement that he felt, DEATH strode towards the training and repeatedly speak to himself, "The ban feature is indeed the key. Brother WINS is really smarter in one level than me."


    He was smiling from ear to ear and he could not help but reminisced some great memories of the past that he shared with WINS.


    For a while, he just stood there like a lunatic smiling at the empty space.


    He was a gamer from an early age. He learned to play games at the age of 6 by watching others in computer shops. At that time, he did not even know how to operate other pc commands. What he only learned was the basic gaming keys.


    And before the popularity of gaming clubs and mobile RTS games as well as 5 v 5 versions emerged, the in-game name WINS and DEATH had already made a strong reputation in the early gaming world.


    It was true that they were the founder of the infamous DEATH WINS guild. But, only veteran players mostly remember their past glory.


    Back then, the reputation of their guild was rock solid. They were even dubbed by other gamers as the unconquerable guild in the MMORPG world. Later on, with the numerous games available, some would even copy their in-game names.


    This reputation had helped them to gain instant fame in the RTS and 5 v 5 gaming world. When they decided to become a professional player and joined a club, the two made an official notice and disbanded their guild. Most of their fans quickly shifted and follow them.


    At first, the fans even admired their brotherhood. However, as time passed and they were not seen playing together, speculations of disagreement were quick to spread.


    And the two had gone on a separate path. Even if they were in the same club, the constant competition of their squad was something that really weakened their friendship. Soon after, most of their fanbase went to WINS.


    ''CEO UNRIVALED huh... just what did this person do that WINS have so much respect for her? If I defeat her in the tournament, would he still respect this person?'' DEATH asked in his mind. The sudden surge of indescribable emotion enveloped his entire being. Now, he somehow found a different motivation to win the tournament. Defeating the Chronos squad to see the reaction of his former friend.


    Meanwhile, in the training room, DEATH''s members were anxiously discussing the former strategy that they have thought.


    "If we pick two marksman characters... we will also be laughed at! This is not how pro players play! We should maintain a balanced line-up!" Last_HP stated.


    "But how can we maximize our damage against the tank? We need range skill attacks. This is the only way," Extinction commented.


    Just like their squad leader, they were too focused on the problem and overlooked the ban feature.


    As DEATH returned to the training room, all his members could tell that he was in a great mood. They quickly stopped their discussion and felt a sense of optimism.


    "Targeting a tank... this is no longer our problem!" DEATH announced. He dragged a chair to the side and took a seat. In his hand was a wrinkled box that he was casually throwing back and forth.


    "Boss DEATH, how is it? What is that box in your hand?" Lifeless_Combo asked while staring at the wrinkled box. "I have seen gaming guides in small notes. There are also gaming manuals. But, I have never seen any manual or guide in a form of a box! That can''t be a solution, right?"


    DEATH abruptly stopped throwing the wrinkled box. He had almost forgotten the tea and was just casually playing with the object in his hand.


    "LC, what the heck! How can it be a solution? Have you gone too sleepy that you can''t clearly see what it is?" Extinction raised his brow towards Lifeless_Combo.


    "Extinction, I can see it clearly! I''m just saying," Lifeless_Como shrugged and yawn at the same time.


    "Boss DEATH, what''s that box?" Extinguisher_Mage also made a follow-up after not hearing any response from DEATH.


    "T-this... Well, after going to the FAB_Gamer''s villa, I discovered that WINS is selling tea. This is free taste," DEATH simply replied as if selling tea was within WINS personality.


    "Tea? Ohhh... I only see tea in the sachet. If you did not bring a box boss DEATH, I would never have any idea that they are placed in a box!" Extinguisher_Mage chuckled.


    "HAHAHA... me too... boss DEATH, let me see that box! I have only held a box of cigarettes and other stuff... It''s my first time holding a box of tea! HAHAHA," Extinction followed and snatched the box from DEATH''s hands.


    "Other stuff... ehh..." The other members said in chorus, giving an obvious teasing look at Extinction. Among them, he was a playboy. As for the ''other box'', even if they don''t speak it... all of them could understand what it meant!


    Extinction returned a playful glare at his companions and put the box of tea back in DEATH''s hand.


    After teasing him, they seemed to feel perplexed by what their squad leader said.


    "Boss DEATH, you mean, the squad leader of the FAB_Gamer squad is selling that tea?" Extinction questioned.


    "He is. He had filled an entire cabinet in his dining area. It is full of this kind of box," DEATH casually replied. The image of WINS opening his cabinet suddenly flashed in his mind. "Haha, he has so many supplies!"


    ''Many supplies!'' This time, his members were completely stunned. One after another, they could not help but expressed their opinions about it.


    "How can the squad leader of FAB_Gamers sell tea when he has money enough to support five families?" Extinction stated.


    "That''s right! Even if we don''t know the exact digit of WINS monthly income, it is known to us that he is the highest earner in our club! Is there even a need for him to become a tea seller?" Extinguisher_Mage said.


    "This matter is really something that is unexpected! Even the highest income player is engaging in business!" Last_HP followed.


    "What''s wrong with it?" DEATH suddenly asked them.


    "Well... S-selling tea? T-that... that is rather unexpected for someone who has the highest earnings in our club! Why is squad leader WINS selling tea, Boss DEATH? Is his family engaging in the tea business?" Extinction asked with an innocent expression on his face.


    "Hmmph, I don''t think so. What else is the reason? He is probably bored. In any case, I already have a good strategy. Go... login to your personal account in social media first. Send the most expensive gift to WINS stream. He should be streaming now," DEATH quickly instructed them. He remembered that WINS told him about losing money because of their conversation.


    "Boss DEATH, are you serious? That guy is earning more than my combined income. Why would I make him richer by sending a gift in his stream?!" Lifeless_Combo quickly complained.


    "That''s right! Boss DEATH, let''s focus on our income. WINS has already enough money!" Extinction supported.


    "If you don''t want to do it, it''s fine. I just want to return a favor to WINS since he gave me an idea on how to defeat the Chronos squad," DEATH stated. He took his phone and opened his social media. Then, he quickly clicked the button to switch to his personal account.


    In his pro account, his profile name was his in-game name: DEATH. After it was successfully switched to his personal account, his profile name also changed to his real name: BLAKE


    Not long after, he joined the stream of WINS and did not hesitate to send a gift. He watched for a while and saw a series of bubble messages on his mobile screen.


    Blake gifted *****


    Cedric gifted *****


    Tobi gifted *****


    Clarence gifted *****


    Tristan gifted *****


    Then, they instantly heard the sound of WINS'' voice announcing and saying his thanks for the gifts followed. Only that, they did not expect that WINS would also tease them in his stream!


    "AH... I have seen Blake gifting my stream... Thank you the squad leader of Slayer_Gods! This is rather generous!"


    "Ohh... another member of your squad... Cedric gifting the stream... Thank you, Extinguisher_Mage!"


    "Yet, another member of your squad... Tobi gifting the stream... Thank you, Lifeless_Combo!"


    "And there''s more from the Slayer_Gods squad... Clarence gifting the stream... Thank you, Extinction!"


    "Hahaha... wait, the entire Slayer_Gods is here! Tristan... ahh Thank you, Last_HP!"


    Hearing WINS series of shout-outs, all Slayer_Gods players were dumbfounded. It was very fast when WINS speak of it that he did not take a minute to mention all of them.


    But, this was not the reason why they were dumbfounded.


    It was because WINS had actually exposed their in-game names alongside their real names!

 Chapter 282 - WINS Streaming (2)

    DEATH''s expression turned dark and gloomy while staring at his mobile screen. His members glance at him and give him a confused look.


    "Boss DEATH, you said to give him a gift in his stream. Why is the FAB_Gamer squad leader doing that kind of shout-out? His fans are crazy... they will surely mock us!" Last_HP softly mumbled.


    "This guy..." DEATH could only provide a harsh whisper, unable to find the right word to describe his former friend. He did not even look up and just stared at the face of WINS on his screen.


    After a few seconds, he quickly closed his social media account and switched to his inbox. Subconsciously, his jaw clenched while his thumbs started to type a message in all uppercase letters: WHAT THE F*CK WINS! ****


    The issue was clear to them. WINS had really crossed the boundary of their privacy!


    In terms of the fan base, there was no doubt that FAB_Gamers squad was more popular than the Slayer_Gods. And the main reason for it was because the Slayer_Gods lacked engagement to their fans. They only reveal their faces when streaming but the other personal data of their members were kept away from the public eye. And they mostly avoided socializing too.


    To put it simply, the members of the FAB_Gamers squad were all extroverts. They can make their fans happy with their streams. They know how to tease them in a fun and not offensive way.


    As for the members of the Slayer_Gods squad, they were mostly introverts. Even DEATH was very selective to people that he associate and socialize with. Their fans could not help but also lose interest in them and shift their attention to WINS and his teammates.


    In comparison to the Chronos squad, if there was one thing that DEATH and Sofia were in common, it was that they value their privacy. And if there was also one thing that WINS and Sofia was in common, it was that they know how to socialize.


    "Boss DEATH, I''m getting several direct messages in my personal account. This joke is not funny anymore. Please talk with WINS!" Lifeless_Combo started while scrolling at the unread messages notification on his phone.


    On the other hand, his other companions were still petrified. For a while, they just stared at the live stream of the game on their phone where WINS character was obviously about to defeat its opponent.


    "Shameless!!! WINS is on purpose! We never reveal our personal account in public yet he--- he intentionally mentioned all of our identities! Not only that, but he also includes our squad!" Extinction finally reacted. He was probably the most open member of their squad. Yet, he also felt offended by the shout-out.


    "Boss DEATH, what are we going to do? Should we deactivate our personal account first?" Lifeless_Combo inquired.


    "I''m doing that now. I''m deactivating! WINS is really putting us on the spot when he knows our fans and his fans are having war! Now, his fans are posting memes and jokes against us," Extinguisher_Mage stated and quickly deactivated his account.


    "We used our personal account for the gift to be discreetly sent to his stream! We did not ask for any shout-out! He should understand that right? Yet, he just had to really expose our identities! What''s wrong with him?!" Extinction gritted his teeth. Even if he was a flirt and had many flings with other gamers, no one had also been able to trace his personal account before.


    "I''m no longer in the mood to practice. Let''s play tomorrow. Go back to our villa for now and rest. I''ll confront WINS when there is an opportunity," DEATH finally sighed and exited the room.


    While the Slayer_Gods walked towards their residence, WINS continued streaming in his place. In fact, his shout-out was actually misunderstood. If only DEATH and his members watched his stream longer, they would have seen that WINS was actually promoting them as the representative of their club in the regional tournament!


    After the stream, WINS saw the number of angry emoticons that DEATH sent to his chatbox. He frowned and immediately called him. In just one ring, the call was automatically connected...


    "What are you angry for? You''ve flooded my inbox with angry stickers!" WINS questioned in a very confused tone.


    On the other line, DEATH was just about to enter his villa when his phone vibrated. He did not hesitate to press the answer button after seeing WINS'' name on his screen.


    "WHY THE HECK DID YOU DO THAT?!" DEATH expressed coldly. His members were startled by his sudden outburst. But soon, they also figured out who their squad leader was talking with.


    "Huh? What did I do?" WINS question. He picked up his keys and walked towards the door. "Let''s not talk over the phone. Where are you, I''m about to head out."


    "I''m outside my squad''s villa. What you did was not really nice. All of us are pissed! If you have the guts, then come and explain yourself! Explain in front of my members!" DEATH demanded.


    "I don''t need the guts to decide if I will come. I''m on my way to your place," WINS stated and ended the call. He placed his phone in his pocket and pulled open the door of his villa. "I''m going out to take fresh air for a bit, guys! Don''t stay up late too much!" he told his members before stepping outside. He locked the door and swiftly walked towards the direction of the Slayer_Gods villa.


    When WINS was a few meters away, he saw the five figures standing outside the Slayer_Gods villa. No matter how DEATH tried to convince his members that he would talk WINS alone, they insisted on sticking with him.


    "You were fine when you left my place. Now, you look like your girlfriend broke up with you," WINS started with a cool expression on his face. He stared at DEATH in the eye before he looked at his members one after another. "What happened to all of you?"


    "Squad leader WINS, you know what you did! Please don''t act ignorant!" Extinction almost yelled in anger.


    "Let''s get straight to the point and not waste our time. WINS, I asked my members to send your stream a gift with good intentions. We even use our personal accounts to avoid controversy. But, you actually shout out not only our in-game name but also our squad! Why did you do that?" DEATH demanded.


    "What''s wrong with it?" WINS fired back.


    "It''s our personal account! We did not even reveal our real names in public. But, you just had to mention all our identities in that stream! We did not ask for any exposure!" DEATH clenched his hands into a fist. His eyes were glaring directly at WINS.


    "Give or take, there is really nothing in your personal accounts other than your faces and your first names. You rarely post anything other than gaming memes. It''s worst than your gaming account. So, what data was exposed to my fans? Don''t tell me, all of you are offended because I''ve mentioned your real names?" WINS questioned.


    "That is exactly the reason! You have told the public of our real names! We have no choice but to deactivate our personal accounts! Now our gaming accounts are also bombarded with so many bashers teasing us for giving you gifts," Extinction stated.


    "Ohh... please! That is just your name, CLARENCE! I don''t understand why it''s a big deal! Sooner or later, your names will be announced in the tournament," WINS shrugged. He now really used the real name of Extinction and give him a serious look.


    "WHAT? W-what do you mean sooner or later, squad leader WINS?" Last_HP questioned. He somehow maintained politeness in his tone.


    "Ohhh... you guys did not look at your contracts thoroughly, did you? You just signed them?" WINS smirked. He slowly walked to the side and gave the group a smirk.


    "The club arranged our participation in the tournament. So, we did not read its contract! Just speak it directly! No need to show off like this!" DEATH stated. His members also looked at one another and sensed a foreboding feeling.


    WINS rolled his eyes and chuckled, "You should read your contracts. In this regional tournament, the participants will undergo a preliminary interview."


    "The club already told us that there is an interview," DEATH curtly said. His members also nodded their heads.


    "Hehehe... Well, in the contract, it states there that the interviewer may ask personal information such as name, age, favorite food, favorite gaming character, and others that would interest the fans. Participants should be cooperative. This thing was emphasized in the contract after the dispute of the last tournament when the Chronos squad insisted on sticking to their exclusive press and refused the organizer for an interview," WINS explained.


    "..."


    The entire Slayer_Gods became silent and frowned at the idea.


    "Hahaha, blame yourselves for not reading it thoroughly. What if the club stated that you will also donate your kidney in that contract? Then, you will all lose your organ without even a proper reason! You are angry because I mentioned your names. Hmmph! It''s better to mention it now. At least, you will not feel anxious during the interview. If you guys think you can use a ''yes'', ''no'', and ''maybe'' during the preliminary interview, you are so wrong! Hahaha... You should thank me for preparing your not so sociable brain cells!"


    In an instant, their anger turned into an awkward feeling. "It''s our lapses for not reading the contract thoroughly," DEATH admitted.


    "I''m here to demand an apology. Come, I''d love to hear it from all of you," WINS chuckled with a sly grin on his face.


    "Don''t push your luck!" DEATH grumbled.


    "WHAT? No apology and gratitude, Blake? Come on! I just promoted your squad in my stream!" WINS stated playfully.


    "Hmmph! And we become the joke! You ask for a gift in your stream. I sent them in full. It should be the end of it. But now, our fans are arguing with your fans!" DEATH expressed.


    "Since when did you care about your fans?" WINS laughed loudly.. Then, he turned around and started walking away.

 Chapter 283 - Soft Opening Day (1)

    The entire night, while netizens switched forums and threads of discussions back and forth, Sofia had a very peaceful sleep.


    In her living room, Hazel stirred from her sleep and opened her eyes. For a while, the baby just kicked her tiny legs and waved her small hands in the air. After several minutes, she started to make a sound that instantly awakened her mother.


    Everything around the room was still dark indicating that it was not yet morning but, the time frame of Heiz''s morning was no longer usual. If her baby wakes up, it is considered the start of her day.


    Heiz sat straight and tenderly smiled at Hazel. Her face was no longer wearing any mask. But, her full appearance was still concealed by the lack of lighting.


    She took her black face mask and wore it before she picked Hazel up gently and carry her around her arms. As she looked at the digital clock on the side, it was still 3:04 AM.


    Those people who poured their time into online trending gossip finally decided to sleep. Just as the lights of their rooms were switched off, it was also the same time that the light in Sofia''s apartment was switched on by Heiz.


    With the clicking sound of the switch that was amplified due to the silence of the night, Sofia stirred from her sleep. She stretched her body comfortably before her eyes gradually opened.


    Today is the day that they will officially operate their business! Her lips curled into a smile as she stepped down her feet and got out of her bed.


    Sofia slowly yawned as she reached her mobile phone on her desk that was still connected to the charger. She swiftly unplugged the connection from the outlet and turned on her phone.


    She stared at the time for a few seconds and hesitated whether she should return to sleep or prepare for the day. On her screen, it was just 03:15 AM and there was still ample time for her to return to sleep.


    She moved her line of vision to the direction of her pillow and blinked her eyes a few times.


    ''The idea of sleeping for another hour is really enticing!'' she mentally groaned. But then, she finally stood straight and stretched and bent her body side to side.


    With her phone in hand, she went out of her room and saw Heiz breastfeeding Hazel.


    "Good morning, sis!" Heiz greeted softly.


    "Good morning, sis Heiz!" Sofia responded and halted her steps. She looked at her phone and opened the unread messages in her notification panel. While reading, her feet moved towards the sofa too. Then, she sat beside Heiz.


    Seeing that Sofia was reading something on her phone, Heiz did not speak anything. They did not have much of a conversation for another half an hour.


    Among the unread messages, there were particular recipients that she managed to send a reply.


    One message was from Brent giving her good wishes for the soft opening of her business. The other was from Grace with almost similar content. They both expressed their interest to join Sofia with the soft opening.


    Understandably, it is the culture in their district. The very first day the business would start its operation, friends and family mostly would join them in the ceremony. It was because the business is still in the process of attracting customers.


    Sofia replied to the soon-to-be husband and wife with the same message too. "Thank you! No need to come over. I know you are busy, just relax and do your personal obligations. See you tomorrow!"


    After her response was sent, she opened another unread message from FAB_Gamers WINS. There were two messages.


    FAB_Gamers WINS: Your opponents from our club are the Slayer_Gods.


    FAB_Gamers WINS: In case you need their profiles... watch the last minute of my stream. I''ve mentioned them there.


    Sofia only sent a thank you reply and proceed to open the last two unread messages from Jing Jing and boss Wang.


    Jing Jing: I have sorted everything for tomorrow, Miss Sofia. We have decided to arrive at around 4:30 AM maybe. The Double Sigma staffs are very cooperative.


    Sofia replied to Jing Jing: Great job, sis Jing! See you later!


    Boss Wang: Miss Sofia, a gentle reminder... don''t forget the endorsement project is 12:30 PM at the Jones Studio. I''ll attach the exact direction. If your squad can come earlier than the time, it will be much appreciated. Outfits for the shooting are sponsored.


    Sofia replied to Boss Wang: Appreciate the reminder, Boss Wang! Thank you!


    By the time Sofia finished reading and replying to all the unread messages in her inbox, Heiz and Hazel were already sleeping while in a sitting position.


    She worriedly stared at their position and felt that anytime, Heiz might drop her baby. She gently tapped Heiz''s shoulder and said, "Sis Heiz, just use my bed to sleep with Hazel. It''s more comfortable there. Don''t sit here."


    Heiz slightly yawned and responded to her, "It''s fine here, sis." She then placed her baby on the mattress and lay down beside her.


    The mother and daughter quickly drifted back to their slumber while Sofia watched at them. She could only scratch her head and went back to her room to prepare herself.


    Half an hour passed and Sofia was combing her wet hair. She now wore blue jeans and a white t-shirt uniform with their logo.


    ''Make the most of the day! You will do great!'' she told herself in front of the mirror before putting down her comb. Then, she opened her phone once more. This time, she went to the Chronos group chat and sent a meme with a roster and caption ''time to wake up!''


    Unexpectedly, Clark marked her message as seen and replied at her.


    Clark: Sof, I''m fully awake! I will go to Joey and Stephen''s place so we can go together. Claire is still asleep. She said you can wake her up. See you!


    She smiled while reading Clark''s message. Then, she also type a reply:


    Sofia: Good job for waking early, Clark! See you in a bit


    After putting her phone in her bag, Sofia gathered all her things and exited her apartment unit. She directly went to Claire''s apartment and opened its door with the key.


    "Claire! Claire!" She called her name in a half-whisper after entering the unit.


    Just as she put down her bag in the chair, a groggy voice of Claire sounded from her bedroom. "I''m awake, Sof! But, my eyes want to sleep again. Ahhhhh... I''ve been awake. And now, I want to sleep again! Can I extend my sleep for half an hour?"


    "Hahaha, don''t sleep now. We should go and make money!" Sofia said in full of enthusiasm. She quickly went to the kitchen and poured the hot water into two mugs. Then, she dropped a teaspoon of black powdered coffee in each mug and stirred it.


    Claire dragged her feet out of her bedroom and went to her kitchen area where she could hear the sound of stirring. She was also dressed in their T-Shirt uniform. But, she was wearing a black skirt, just above her knee and the T-shirt was inserted on it. There was also a huge belt that complimented her waist.


    "Ohh... yeah! Let''s make money! My gosh, I sleep so early last night, Sof! And I woke up around 2:30 AM earlier. I contemplated if I sleep again or not. Good thing you are here now. I don''t need to contemplate!" Claire groaned and massaged her temple.


    "Here, a pure coffee... Careful, it''s extremely hot," Sofia pushed one mug of coffee near her.


    Claire gripped the handle of the mug and blew some air on it. Then, she drank the liquid only to also gag and make a choking sound. Her entire senses finally woke up at the bitterness and she hastily went to her sink and spit the liquid.


    "My gosh, there is no sugar or cream!" Claire complained and gave Sofia a shocked look.


    "Ahh...it''s really pure... and this is your apartment. Put a sugar or cream however you like. Hahaha," Sofia said while casually drinking her coffee.


    "Your taste of coffee has completely weirded me, Sof. How could you drink that? This is too bitter!" Claire pouted and shook her head. She took the small container of sugar and cream and put two scoops of both in her mug.


    "It''s effective to wake you up, is it? Hehe..." Sofia slightly laughed while looking at Claire stirring her newly flavored coffee.


    The two spent five minutes of their time before they finished their coffee.


    "Clark said he will pick us here. He already meet Joey and Stephen," Claire said while looking at the exact message on her screen.


    "Okay," Sofia nodded her head. "What a miracle that they really wake up so early!"


    "Nah, as far as I know, they also sleep the same time as me, Sof. It''s before 8 PM last night! How about you, what time did you sleep?" Claire giggled.


    "Several minutes after our class. By the way, I have told my teacher that I won''t be attending my class today. What''s your plan?" Sofia inquired.


    "We also told our advisers the same, Sof. Hehe, but, we said that it''s because of the endorsement project. Not, our business," Claire answered with a huge grin on her face. "They are here," she added after reading Clark''s new message.


    "Let''s go!" Sofia said and place her mug at the sink.. Claire followed her and the two quickly went down.

 Chapter 284 - Soft Opening Day (2)

    "According to supervisor Isaac, we have to patrol in the intersection street too. It was the mayor''s current order. I hope no person is there when we get there, officer Kim."


    "Hopefully, no troublesome gangs are there, officer Tan."


    A police car was roving around the empty streets of district 7. Flashes of bright red and blue color from the top of their vehicle moved along.


    Inside were two male officers in their uniforms sitting comfortably. These officers were in their late 20''s and were on their usual night patrol.


    Out of a sudden, they saw a group of not only ten but a really large crowd of people gathered on the side of the street. They looked at each other and shared a suspicious glance.


    "Our hope is crushed! So many people! Officer Kim, do you think there is an ongoing riot in this area? What kind of gathering is this?!" officer Tan who was driving the vehicle questioned his partner. His brows furrowed and he clenched his hands in the steering wheel. He instantly slow down the speed of the car as they traveled along the area.


    Before his partner, officer Kim could speak a response to him, he had already caught two familiar faces standing amongst the crowd.


    "Are those the leaders of the Double Sigma Fraternity? What bad luck! Are they having initiation right now?" he asked again and decided to park the car just a few meters away from the crowd. In his mind, the group was possibly doing a hazing ceremony for their new members. Such a case was not surprising in the intersection street. The only thing that baffled him was the numbers of crowd gathering. Just where did they get so many new recruits?


    With this in mind, he started to feel a throbbing pain in his head. ''If that fraternity would add these numbers of members, we could never discipline them!''


    "Perhaps their recruits? But it''s already dawn. Are they waiting for something? Someone? Or maybe they want us to witness them to provoke us?  What do you think, officer Tan?" his partner speculated. Given his impression of the Double Sigma fraternity, several unfavorable ideas quickly formulated in his thoughts.


    "That could be it. I''ll call our supervisor and ask if we should get involved to them or just ignore them," Officer Kim paused and grab his radio.


    "Something is not right!" Officer Tan paused as he continued observing the crowd. Then, he continued, "Since when did those frat members started wearing white uniforms? Is this some sort of propaganda?"


    In fact, he just noticed that all of the crowd were all wearing the same shirt after scanning the entire crowd with his sharp eyes.


    Unbeknownst to them, it was the white T-Shirt uniform of the Chronos company. And those people were waiting for Sofia and her companions to arrive.


    Yet, given the history and background of the Double Sigma fraternity, the police officers naturally misunderstood their large assembly.


    On the other side, the Double Sigma was also alert when they saw the police vehicle.


    "I did not know that police are now patrolling this area? In the past, those cowards would not even dare to take a single step in this area at night!" Derek stated while stealing glances at the police vehicle. He never had a good encounter with them. After seeing their car, he could not help but felt irritated.


    "I''ll inform Miss Sofia. Let''s not cause a scene. This might cause trouble in her plans," Danny calmly stated and dialed Sofia''s contact number.


    In just two rings, the call was immediately connected.


    "Hello... Miss Sofia, I think there is a small problem. I have assembled my members on the side road here in intersection street. But, there is a police car that looked like monitoring us," Danny started with a voice full of concern.


    At the same time, the Chronos squad was already riding in one van owned by Clark''s family. They had just left from the university road.


    "What''s the problem?" Sofia softly inquired. Somehow, she was puzzled by what Danny had said. For a moment, she did not thought that there was a problem if the police would go there.


    "Ehem! The police are monitoring us. The intersection street is usually not included when they are patrolling. But now, there are here and even parked their car," Danny answered in a cautious tone.


    "Ohh... well, I think I have mentioned the safety and security concern of the intersection street to the mayor. That is probably the reason why they are there. Don''t worry. You are not doing any illegal activity and they cannot find fault of you by just gathering there," Sofia whispered and did not put much thought about the police. She knew that there was no active curfew in the district 7. So, she was confident that nothing harmful would happen to them.


    "Not illegal... But I think...---" Danny contemplated and became silent for a few seconds. He suddenly felt conflicted about their situation. Sofia''s unbothered tone was obviously a natural reaction that he did not know whether he should express his anxiety.


    In the moments of his silence, Sofia finally reflected the worry in Danny''s tone. Of course, how could this infamous fraternity leader not anxious about seeing a police? They had so many bad encounters with the authority in the past! His unease was valid!


    "I see it now... Hmmn... No need to be nervous. You are there not as the Double Sigma fraternity but the employees of the Chronos company. The police has no reason to make trouble with you, okay?" Sofia stated.


    "Okay, uhhmm... they are really monitoring us. Now, there is the second patrol car parking not far away from us," Danny stated.


    "We are almost there. I will talk to them. Don''t say any statement or comment that can incriminate you or your frat members. Just tell them that I am on my way and I will explain everything with them," Sofia quickly instructed.


    "Okay. I''ll do that." Danny said before he ended their conversation.


    He was looking at the four uniformed officers that were walking towards them. For a moment, he took a deep breath and slightly nodded at the officers in a polite manner.


    "Good morning, everyone! I''m police supervisor Isaac. How are you?" the police supervisor asked. This man was actually instructed by the mayor to monitor the area after Sofia mentioned the safety and security of the intersection street. He quickly deployed two officers to patrol the entire street.


    The minute he received the report from his two officers, he instantly decided to possibly settle matters personally instead of letting his officers handle the fraternity.


    "Danny and Derek of Double Sigma fraternity, right?" the police supervisor asked again but the entire crowd remained silent and stared at him. Only Danny and Derek nodded their heads.


    "Well, care to tell me why is there so many people you have gathered here? It''s already morning, this is rather unusual for your members to stay until morning in this street. You are not planning to conduct a hazing in front of us, are you?" the supervisor subsequently questioned. His tone remained friendly and casual even though his questions were somehow sounded like it was an accusation. No matter what, they just don''t want to get involve with this fraternity for they have bigger influence in their district.


    "Officer, there is no hazing. We are employed in that establishment," Derek finally responded and pointed his index finger to the nearest building in the side. "This will start to operate today. So, we came early," he added.


    "All of you are employed?" the police supervisor probed further. He turned around and gave a meaningful glance to his officers behind.


    "Yes, sir! You can see that we are wearing uniforms of this establishment. Our boss will be here. If you want to talk with her, she will definitely explain why we are early here," Danny quickly replied.


    "We did notice your uniforms. In that case, we are just checking if you are all safe here," the police supervisor stated.


    Hearing his words, most of the Double Sigma fraternity members wrinkled their faces and felt extremely awkward. Even Danny and Derek swallowed all their reaction into a big gulp. They had never imagine that a day will come that they would hear a police officer saying those words.


    Not long after, a black van pulled over and the police officers quickly recognize the sticker of the vehicle.


    "Your boss is the Zhangs?" the police supervisor looked at the two fraternity leaders.


    "Well... not the Zhang family. It''s them..." Derek trailed while watching as the door of the van opened and five teenagers stepped out of it. Then, Jing Jing''s car also arrived and parked behind it.


    "Miss Sofia, why is there a police officers there?" Jing Jing yelled from the window of her car. She then took off her seatbelt and hoped out of her car.


    The four policemen were quick to march towards them too.


    "Officers, good morning! They are our staffs," Sofia greeted and paused. She looked at the crowd and all of them slightly bent their heads in a casual bow gesture. "I''m Sofia and here are my friends... Clark, Stephen, Claire, Joey. This is Jing Jing, our manager," Sofia introduced everyone behind her.


    "Ohh... Hello! I am their police supervisor, Officer Isaac. We are here to check if everyone is safe," the police supervisor offered a friendly smiled at them.


    "We understand the situation, officer Isaac. I hope we did not cause trouble for gathering here. It''s just that, it''s our first day of our business operation. And we have to make a quick orientation with everyone first before our customers comes here," Sofia thoughtfully explained.


    "First day? Ahhh... now... I kind of remember... yesterday in social media, there is a trending topic that I saw. It''s a dining place that will operate today... hehe, cool. No trouble at all, Miss Sofia," the police supervisor easily stated.


    "Then, thank you for checking on us. In the future, we will rely on your team for our safety," Sofia said and looked at her employees. "Everyone, let''s thank supervisor Isaac and his team for their hard work!" Sofia offered a customary bow to the police officers. With her lead, the frat members forced themselves to follow her gesture and bowed too.


    "Thank you.. We will take our leave," Officer Isaac stated with sincere expression on his face and signaled his members to go back to their vehicle.

 Chapter 285 - Soft Opening Day (3)

    "That was rather unexpected," officer Tan whispered. "I feel like this is a dream. Am I really out and is patrolling here? I c-can''t believe what I just saw! The most notorious fraternity in our district can actually act like obedient citizens!!?"


    "Mmn... The young lady has a point. We cannot judge them. As far as what I have observed, they are very civil and almost look like they are timid. Heh... how they look today was very far from the delinquents they were in the past," officer Isaac mentioned and remembered how chaotic the intersection street before. If not police report from business owners because of throwing an empty bottle in their establishment, there were shattered glasses scattered everywhere on the ground that was always the morning scene that street sweepers need to clean. Even authorities does not want to offend the group! "If the Double Sigma fraternity is willing to change their bad behavior, then, this district will finally have peace."


    "Isn''t their manager a bit familiar? She was the famous press lady right?" officer Kim stated.


    "Yes, that''s her... Ms. Jing Jing. Her reputation is reliable," officer Tan confirmed.


    "Since our mayor ordered us to patrol here daily, let''s just observe those frat members!" officer Isaac stated with a sigh.


    "I just can''t believe they bowed to us. That young lady must have really a great influence on them," officer Kim chuckled as the scene of Sofia instructing her staff to bow at them replayed in his mind.


    "Witnessing those Double Sigma fraternity bow to us gives me a different feeling. It''s like the devil is glaring at me from hell. I felt goosebumps all over my skin!" officer Isaac told his team while they continued to march towards their car. He subconsciously adjusted the hem of his uniform and gave a final glance to the crowd before he opened the door of the driver''s seat. "It''s almost 5 AM. Officers, report to the office directly," he commanded before he drove off.


    "Our night shift is almost over. Thankfully, we did not encounter trouble tonight," officer Kim told his partner before they left the area.


    Meanwhile, the appearance of the policemen gave Sofia another reflection of possibilities. A crucial possibility that she had overlooked and failed to consider.


    "Miss Sofia, here are all my members. I have grouped them according to what you have told me - their tasks and shifts today," Derek presented and quickly explained to Sofia his arrangements.


    "Good job! Just now, I think I have neglected something important. Let''s have a brief discussion," Sofia said and signaled to Derek and Danny to come with her. She then walked a few steps away from the crowd.


    Jing Jing and the others just stayed in their place watching them move a few distance from them.


    "What is it, Miss Sofia? You are not going to fire all of us, right? Are we in trouble?" Danny questioned right away.


    "No, that''s not it. I just never considered this scenario... but hypothetically, what will happen if we have a customer today that your fraternity has offended in the past? How do you think we will handle the customer?" Sofia asked the two in a severe tone.


    Derek and Danny were taken aback by Sofia''s words too. They pondered the possible situation and felt it was difficult to handle.


    "I am also at lost. How can I protect you guys if this will happen? If you have suggestions, tell me," Sofia admitted. In her past life, she hired employees with clean backgrounds. There were proper human resources that would handle it for her. But now, all her employees have somehow offended someone in the district. It would surely affect her business if she won''t have solution for it!


    Another minute passed and the three of them went into complete silence. They just looked on the ground as they were brainstorming the solution. Sometimes, they would look up in the sky as if there were answers written there.


    Danny and Derek scratched their heads and gave Sofia an awkward and helpless smile.


    "Miss Sofia, we will not fight back to the customer if they will bear grudges against us and seek trouble. Just let us work. We will not say a word even if they hurt us," Danny whispered.


    "No... Customers are vital but how can I let them hurt  any of my staff?" Sofia said. "It''s the dining place. There are a lot of things that can cause serious harm there. The knives, utensils, wares, hot water..." Sofia trailed. Then, she glanced in the direction of the crowd, still thinking of the solution to her concern. ''There has to be a solution for this.''


    "I can assure you that my members won''t fight back, Miss Sofia," Derek said with certainty. He suddenly felt that they might really lose this chance to be employed and have decent work.


    "It''s not about fighting back or just simply enduring humiliation. If the customer can easily mistreat you as an employee, that means that we, as your employers, are incompetent of providing you a safety work place. Don''t worry about your employment. I''m also concerned about the possibility of customers harming my staff... Hang on," Sofia explained and finally had an idea. She then sprinted towards Clark''s van and grabbed her bag. Then, she pulled out a paper and marker and started writing...


    After writing, Sofia gestured for every member of the Double Sigma fraternity to stand closer.


    "Hello! I am Sofia and before we open our establishment today, I''ll give you a brief orientation. Please listen and cooperate," Sofia started and the employees nodded their heads.


    "We all have our ego and pride. But, the moment you enter our establishment, I ask everyone to leave this ego and pride outside. Just focus on serving our customers. Hmmn, if any customer is giving you difficulty, and you feel like you cannot deal with them, ask sister Jing for help. Do not shout or argue with the customer. Is that clear?" Sofia emphasized.


    "Yes!" the employees quickly responded.


    "Good!" Sofia smiled at them. She then raised the paper that she had written, "I will put this in the door. If a customer is starting to give you an attitude and become disruptive, just point this paper using your fingers to try to pacify them."


    As the employees looked closer at the paper, they finally saw Sofia''s written message.


    ***THE MANAGEMENT WILL INSTANTLY REMOVE DISRUPTIVE AND UNREASONABLE CUSTOMERS IN THE DINING AREA WITHOUT A REFUND. PLEASE MAINTAIN A RESPECTFUL AMBIANCE WHILE ENJOYING OUR FOOD!***


    Sofia showed them the message and continued, "If someone will be misbehaving later when you serve them, just use your index finger and point this paper. This way, if they continue to be difficult, we will ask them to leave with no return of their payment. Do not argue with them."


    "We must treat all our customers with the right service. But, we should not endure unreasonable treatments from them too. However, we are just starting our business. We are not rich enough to send people to the hospital because of accidents. We cannot fight back potential frequent customers. Make a good impression of our service to them! Our profit and your wages come from them," Sofia finished and walked towards the door of the establishment. After unlocking everything, she quickly let her employees in.


    "Sof, do you need the list of reserved tables?" Jing Jing suddenly asked.


    "Yes, Derek will facilitate that list and he will also collect their payments," Sofia casually answered.

 Chapter 286 - Soft Opening Day (4)

    "Here is the list, Derek. I have written the reservation names and their tables. The time of the reservation and the prices are on the next page," Jing Jing said and gave the man her list.


    "I got it. Thanks, Ms. Jing Jing," Derek politely expressed after looking at the contents of the list. He nodded his head and walked inside.


    While the other members of the Double Sigma fraternity take turns to enter the establishment, Jing Jing moved her feet and pulled the boys - Joey, Stephen, and Clark on the side.


    "The three of you, please get the flowers and balloons in my car. Here is my key," Jing Jing secretly whispered and handed Stephen the key.


    "What is it for?" Joey curiously asked in a hushed tone.


    "Just get it first. You''ll know later," Jing Jing urged them.


    "Okay, hehehe.... we will get it then, Ms. Jing Jing," Clark said and gently pushed the two. They quickly walked in the direction where Jing Jing''s car was parked.


    Sofia noticed their retreating figures in her peripheral view but she did not think too much about it. She was still silently observing the staff as they went to the dining hall.


    The moment anyone would enter the establishment, several frames that were hung above the wall could easily be seen. If looked closer, those frames were legal documents such as their business permits and other government certifications, and the business registration receipt.


    Below those frames was a long desk for the reception area. Derek went to the desk and plugged in the computer. He then scanned the list of their customers that Jing Jing gave to him.


    On the other side, Danny went to the kitchen area and guided his members accordingly. Sofia looked at his animated movements as he gave instructions to his members.


    "Sof," Claire whispered beside her. They stood near the door and continued to observe. There was three staff that started to carry chairs and tables and arranged them in place. Derek was standing behind the group that was obviously facilitating them.


    "Yes?" Sofia glanced at Claire and saw the emotional look on her friend''s face. "Why do you look like you are about to cry?" she asked.


    "Hehehe," Claire forced a laugh to mask her emotions. She then said in a soft voice, "We are really having this business?"


    Sofia raised her hand and gently patted Claire''s head. Even though their current age is the same, her gesture looked like she was comforting a young sibling. "Let''s take a deep breath as we are about to step into the corporate world. Soon, we will join the bigger market competition. We can do this!"


    Claire inhaled some cool air of the dawn and smiled. The tears somehow gathered in the sides of her eyes. "I''m having tears of joy!" she chuckled.


    "Tears of joy..." Sofia repeated in a meaningful tone. She looked around the place once more before her attention shifted back to Claire.


    "Sof, before, when we were planning, the idea of operating this business was not as overwhelming as seeing our plans put into action," Claire giggled and wiped the small tears in her eyes using her hand. She was really moved by the mixed emotions that she felt. Who would have thought that they are suddenly having a business in just a matter of less than a month?


    "Plans are nothing if we won''t execute them. The sooner we put them into action the better! Hehe, opening a business may sound like it''s amazing. However, we have to put in mind that these employees are our responsibility. We must do our best!" Sofia smiled back before retrieving her hand.


    "Yes! Let''s do our best! Let''s get inside!" Claire affirmed and took a deep breath before entering the dining hall.


    "Miss Sofia, Miss Claire... I have something to tell you," Jing Jing giggled after they stepped inside their establishment.


    Claire and Sofia faced her with a smile.


    "What is it, sister Jing?" Sofia simply asked.


    "Well, I think, something is missing on this first day of our operation. And maybe you are not paying attention to it," Jing Jing stated. A glint of excitement flashed in her eyes.


    ''What else did I miss?'' Sofia secretly asked in mind. She give a quick thought to the overall situation but was unable to formulate an answer to her own question. Then, she responded to Jing Jing, "Sister Jing, if I missed something, I know you will help me out. Hehe... Say... what did I miss?"


    "We should have a ribbon-cutting ceremony!" Jing Jing exclaimed and looked at the entrance of the establishment to see if the three boys were finished getting necessary stuffs in her car.


    "Ribbon-cutting?" Claire mumbled softly.


    Sofia pursed her lips and subconsciously rubbed her watch. This ribbon-cutting ceremony was indeed mostly practiced when opening a new business. However, such a ceremony was not necessarily done on the first day of operation. Some business owners would do it after a few days.


    "Sister Jing, I did not forget it. I just think it''s not necessary. How about we just operate directly?" Sofia replied and felt a little bit nostalgic. In the past, she had hosted and cut so many ribbons in similar events. Somehow, the memories bring her a melancholic vibe.


    "No way! This is very necessary! We should do it!" Jing Jing insisted with firmness in her tone.


    "Well, we can arrange this ceremony later... maybe?" Sofia suggested.


    "No need! I have it arranged today! I assumed that you are very busy with everything so we did not have a discussion about the ribbon cutting. Hehehe," Jing Jing chuckled.


    ''Today?!'' Sofia almost raised her eye brow.


    Then, Stephen emerged on the door and stepped inside carrying three red balloons and a bouquet of yellow flowers.


    "Look! Here are the red balloons for prosperity and good luck. The yellow flowers for loyalty and positivity!" Jing Jing started.


    Sofia was completely speechless after seeing Stephen approaching them. She s;owly combed her hair with her fingers while looking at him.


    "Where do I put these, Sof?" Stephen asked and looked at Sofia with tenderness in his voice.


    "In the reception desk! Hehe... Thanks!" Jing Jing quickly replied. Stephen nodded and followed her instruction.


    "You really prepared materials for the ribbon cutting, sister Jing..." Sofia trailed her words while watching Stephen put the bouquet.


    After a few seconds, Joey also appeared holding three brown balloons and pink flowers.


    Jing Jing clapped her hands and spoke, "These brown balloons are for our safety, stability, and solid foundation. And the pink flowers for our harmony!"


    "Ohh..." Sofia nodded and remembered the three boys going to Jing Jing''s car a while ago.


    She then saw Clark who was holding two wooden white stands with a golden orange ribbon attached to each end.


    "This time, I selected this golden orange ribbon for the color of our logo is gold, and the orange represents our warmth and enthusiasm in this new venture. By cutting this ribbon, let''s unwrap all great things for our company!" Jing Jing finished.


    "Ribbon cutting..." Sofia whispered again. She was not planning to do this ceremony and just simply operate the business directly. She did not also expect Jing Jing to be so thorough about the business opening ceremony.


    "Well... before we cut the ribbon, kindly pin this on the front door first," Sofia said and handed the paper to the three boys. It was the warning note she had improvised earlier.


    The three boys quickly went to the door while Sofia and Jing Jing walked to the front desk. Claire was too stunned by Jing Jing''s speech to move her feet and she just stayed in her place. In her mind, only big business do this events. Now, they were actually doing it!


    "Alright! Even though this ribbon-cutting ceremony is not planned, we have to follow our tradition. When I was still working in the press company, I have covered news about the opening ceremony and ribbon-cutting events. Miss Sofia, you should cut the ribbon!" Jing Jing explained as she rearranged the balloons and flowers. She then looked around and spotted Derek standing on the corner. "Derek, come! Hehe, help me take a video when Miss Sofia cuts the ribbon! We should record this memorable moment!" Jing Jing called.


    "Yes, Miss Jing Jing!" Derek responded right away and took out his phone.


    "In this case, I should have prepared a speech?" Sofia giggled. Her fingers run through the ribbon for a few seconds. Such an important ceremony really requires appropriate speech.


    "Just speak what you want to say, Miss Sofia!" Jing Jing encouraged. Claire finally moved her feet and joined them in the reception area. Then, the three boys also sauntered towards them after placing the note on the front door.


    "Sister Jing, thank you for this preparation! You are so thoughtful!" Sofia expressed with full of sincerity.


    "You''re welcome... hehehe," Jing Jing replied maintaining her enthusiasm.


    But, out of a sudden, a frown appeared on her forehead as she realized something... Jing Jing exclaimed, "AH! I forgot to bring a scissor!"


    ~~~


    Author''s Note: We all know that colors are significant during events. But because I''m not an expert in ceremonial colors and their symbols, I''ve researched and checked details about it for the decoration elements mentioned by Jing Jing in this ribbon-cutting ceremony chapter before blending them into our storyline. :) I am not connected to this site but I will give credit and gratitude to their admin/creator for sharing their ideas with the public. Site link: <https://www.ceremonialsupplies.com/significance-of-colors-for-ceremonial-supplies>. I have learned a lot about colors from their content. <3

 Chapter 287 - Soft Opening Day (5)

    Jing Jing''s enthusiasm vanished in an instant. Her expression was replaced with sadness and disbelief. Of all the things that she could forget to bring! It was exactly the main tool that is used for the ceremony!


    "I was too focused on picking the colors of flowers and balloons yesterday. Ahh... I can''t believe I''ve forgotten it!" Jing Jing felt like crying after realizing she did not really prepare a scissor!


    On the other side, the four teens do not know how to react to this too. It was their first time to do such kind of ceremony. They don''t even have any knowledge of how it should be done!


    Claire glanced at Clark and they exchanged a silent message in their look.


    ''Do you have a scissor?''


    Clark shook his head seemingly understanding the message even though Claire did not speak of it.


    Joey and Stephen subconsciously scratched the back of their heads and stared at Sofia.


    Even though Jing Jing felt slightly horrified for forgetting the most important tool they need to complete the ceremony, Sofia appeared unaffected. She maintained a gentle curl on her lips and clasped both her palms.


    ''It can''t be helped. Human, as we are, forgetting something, is mostly a natural occurrence,'' Sofia wanted to say to comfort Jing Jing. Even she would also not be shy to admit that there were certain things that she could overlook.


    However, Sofia remained silent for a few seconds while watching Jing Jing fidget. She could not help but compare the proud and confident secretary that she had in her past life to the woman that was now anxious because of a simple scissor.


    Jing Jing looked at Sofia in the eye and hinted an apologetic expression. "It''s my fault. Sorry---"


    "Sister Jing, we can do the ribbon-cutting ceremony later. We can still look for a scissor. Don''t blame yourself over something like this," Sofia cut her off calmly before she could finish her apology. "What are you apologizing for? This is not your fault," she added after perceiving the dreary expression on Jing Jing''s face.


    "B-but if we do it later.... uhhmm... we have no time!" Jing Jing whispered. Among them, only she understood well how tight their schedule would be.  If not now, there would be no later for the ceremony!


    Derek who maintained his silence like the rest of the teens suddenly saw his brother exiting the kitchen area. He shifted his foot and pondered for a bit. "Maybe there is a scissor in the kitchen? Or a knife? It is to cut that ribbon right?" he immediately suggested. In his mind, he simply thought that as long as the ribbon would be cut, any tool could be used. "I will ask Danny," he added and quickly went in his brother''s direction.


    The four teens quickly nodded their heads, showing support for Derek''s idea. Even Claire sighed in relief.


    But, on the other hand, hearing the man''s suggestion, Sofia and Jing Jing blinked a couple of times as they watched him walk away from them. Both have the same words in mind.


    ''Knife to use in the ribbon-cutting ceremony? That''s rather unconventional!''


    Derek walked swiftly that before Sofia or Jing Jing could react to his suggestion, he was already on the other corner of the hall and talked to his brother.


    "Bro, do you have a scissor in the kitchen?" Derek immediately asked.


    "Why are you looking for a scissor?" Danny looked visibly confused. But, he did not face his brother and just continue arranging the plates on the side of the table while casually ordering their other frat members how the table and chairs should be arranged.


    "Our young boss needs to cut a ribbon. If there is no scissor then lend me a small knife?" Derek responded.


    "Wait, I''ll check..." Danny started and walked into the kitchen once more. Derek simply followed him and looked around the place. He noticed that their members there were preparing the pans, cauldron, and wok.


    "Boss!" the frat members called them with a big smile in their faces.


    "Make sure you cook delicious food!" Derek spoke at them while Danny was pulling the drawers.


    "Boss, don''t worry... all the list of food on the menu are local dishes. We can cook them at best! Our customers will definitely love them!" the members quickly answered in chorus.


    "Good!" Derek stated and finally switched his attention to his brother. "Did you find a scissor?" he asked.


    "Yeah... there is," Danny stated but in fact, the scissor that he had seen were kitchen shears used in trimming meat and vegetables. "Here is the scissor," he said after grabbing it.


    "Nice! There is indeed a scissor!" Derek chuckled after receiving the tool. He smiled and tapped Danny''s shoulder before he left the kitchen. He excitedly sprinted back in Sofia''s direction.


    Watching Derek''s figure approaching them, Jing Jing did not need to look closer to recognize what he was holding. It was indeed a scissor but she did not know whether to feel at ease about it.


    "That''s kitchen shear! It''s---" Jing Jing spoke awkwardly and looked at Sofia''s reaction. She was about to say that it''s a different tool. But, then, she reminded herself that it was more reasonable rather than using a knife.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, I have it! Here is the scissor," Derek said not sensing anything from her.


    Jing Jing sighed and took the object. She stared at the serrated and smooth edges of the blade.


    "Miss Sofia, I think this should be fine," Jing Jing spoke and slowly handed the object to Sofia.


    "This kitchen shear is rather more meaningful than the usual scissor," Sofia stated and positioned her thumb and finger to its handle. She then traced every part with her left index finger and mentioned the purpose of it.


    "That scissor looks weird," Joey voiced out his comment.


    Having no idea why it looked different, the three teens beside him also nodded their heads.


    "What is that?" Claire asked while staring at Sofia''s hand gripping the object.


    "That is a scissor used in the kitchen and had many purposes," Jing Jing muttered.


    "Ohh..." Claire mumbled.


    "This tool is called kitchen shear," Sofia introduced and look at them in the eye. She had learned cooking in the past and was aware of the functions of this tool. "Here is the serrated edge blade... this area is used for removing fish scales. Opposite to this is the smooth-edged blade used as a peeler. The upper inner blade is for snipping herbs and trimming meat while the lower blade is for cutting bones. The handle has a nutcracker in the inner. Then there is a bottle opener on this side and a screwdriver on the other," Sofia explained all parts using her past memories not thinking too much of what she said.


    However, Claire gaped at her for a few seconds feeling a slight sense of suspicion in her heart. She took a big gulp and contemplated whether she would say something.


    Yet, Claire could not help but whisper, "H-how?"


    "Hmmn?" Clark hummed beside her.


    At the same time, Sofia''s clear eyes made a contact with Claire''s clouded vision and she suddenly realized something dire...


    Of course, how could the original owner of her body know about kitchen shears? Let alone the name of the tool, she even explained every part and function of it!


    Even if Claire would only utter a single word, it was clear that she wanted to ask how did Sofia know all those details. They had never owned nor used this kind of tool!


    Sofia tightened her grip o the object and mentally facepalmed while avoiding Claire''s gaze.


    She cleared her throat and pretended to examine the object again.


    Fortunately, only Sofia took notice of the meaning in Claire''s sudden change of tone and facial expression.


    "Woahh! There is actually such a thing!" Joey exclaimed before the atmosphere around them became awkward.


    "Yes, Miss Sofia is right! Those... indeed those are the purposes of the tool!" Jing Jing confirmed. "Using that kitchen shear to cut the ribbon is indeed more meaningful! Good thing, you found one, Derek!"


    "Hehe, no problem!" Derek simply replied. "So, this ceremony... we are doing this right now?" he asked while preparing the camera of his phone.


    Sofia took a deep breath and shifted her gaze towards the balloons and flowers. "Yes, let''s do it!"


    "Yey! Derek, make sure that the video you take is clear," Jing Jing reminded Derek.


    "Okay! It''s recording now!" Derek told them while carefully adjusting the angle of the camera.


    Sofia walked towards the center and smiled at them. She briefly thought of what would the appropriate speech she should deliver to them.


    "By cutting this ribbon... I, Sofia Su, represent the entire members of the Chronos Corporation, marks this day as the day that all of us are ready to embark towards the corporate world! With our combined effort, teamwork, and cooperation, may all fortunes favor our business. I am confident that our business will grow and we as owners will continue to grow with it too!" Sofia''s firm voice heeded before snapping the kitchen shear and successfully cutting the ribbon.


    Soon after, Derek shifted the camera to Jing Jing and the four teens as they clapped their hands and exchanged high-fives.. Sofia scanned the entire place and gazed at them with tenderness in her eyes.

 Chapter 288 - Soft Opening Day (6)

    "It''s done! Congratulations to us!" Sofia declared finally meeting everyone''s gaze.


    The hand holding the kitchen shear slowly dropped to her side while each half of the ribbon hung freely on both ends of wooden stands. The tip of the ribbon was just a few inches away from the floor. The wind somehow made its way and gently blew the ribbons to flutter in the air.


    Her heart blossomed an emotion of indescribable thrill of excitement.


    Subconsciously, Sofia glanced at her wristwatch and take note of the time.


    ''05:25 AM, 24th of February... Far from the usual time to conduct a ribbon-cutting ceremony,'' Sofia thought.


    Heck, citizens in district 7 were still tucked in their bed, snoring in their sleep! Other than them, the surrounding establishments were still closed while their owners were also taking their rest.


    Having such thoughts, Sofia bit her lower lip and take a deep breath. She slightly glanced at the ribbons that were gently swaying. Then, she mustered her courage to look in Claire''s direction.


    Claire was clapping her hand joyfully and seemed to have dropped whatever she had perceived earlier. Beside her was Clark who had leisurely put his arms on Claire''s shoulder.


    ''Good, I don''t need to make another alibi!'' Sofia released a silent sigh once more and could only pray in her heart that her tongue would no longer slip in the future.


    She then shifted her line of vision on the side where Joey had a cheeky grin and Stephen only curled his lips to form an upward curve.


    "Congratulations, Miss Sofia!" Jing Jing stated first and everyone followed to speak their congratulations for one another.


    Those staff who were moving things on the corner also halted their work and clapped their hands for a minute before finishing their task.


    Unlike those fancy ribbon-cutting ceremonies that Jing Jing covered in media before, this event was really just completed in their own special way. A thought also occurred to her. ''There is no wine and champagne. It''s like a ceremony but with no air of celebration. Yet, somehow, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment.''


    "Miss Sofia, there is no wine to complete our event.," Jing Jing secretly told Sofia.


    "It''s okay, sister Jing. It is too early to drink wine!" Sofia chuckled and handed the kitchen shear back to Derek.


    "I will go back to my post," Derek stated after receiving the object.


    "Hehe, right... it''s still past 5 AM..." Jing Jing nodded her head in agreement.


    Before Derek could walk another step away from them, she called. "Send me a copy of the video. I will keep it as a remembrance! But, don''t post it online to avoid troubles for Miss Sofia."


    "Who would dare make trouble to our young boss? I will face them," Derek smirked.


    "Hahaha... it is indeed troublesome if the video will go in public. Just don''t post it, Derek," Sofia supported Jing Jing. In Sofia''s mind, it was better for them to stay low-key about owning the business.


    "Ohh... Then, I will keep the video in my phone storage. But, young boss, if someone will trouble you, just tell me and we will surely teach them a lesson," Derek stated. He tapped his chest as a gesture of assurance.


    "It is better to avoid troubles and just focus on gaining profit," Sofia expressed with firmness in her tone.


    "Yes, that''s right! Send that video to me and I will compile it," Jing Jing stated.


    Derek nodded his head before he continued going towards the kitchen.


    Meanwhile, Jing Jing turned around towards the door and stared at the darkness outside. The sky was just about to break its dawn.


    Just then, two elder men stood at the entrance door. They were carrying large 4 baskets of vegetables and meat.


    "Hello! Delivery for Ms. Jing Jing! This is for the order made yesterday!" one of the men called.


    Hearing this, everyone snapped their attention to the two newcomers.


    "These two men are our suppliers of vegetables and meat, Miss Sofia. I have negotiated with the price in the market yesterday," Jing Jing introduced and they both walked towards the door. The rest of the teens followed behind and looked at the baskets with curiosity.


    The man who called Jing Jing first also waved his hand after recognizing her.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, I did not expect to see you personally! Hehehe, Here is the list of goods that you asked for yesterday. All the goods are in the baskets. Please check them if it''s complete," he said and provided Jing Jing the receipt.


    Jing Jing slightly bowed her head and wanted to introduce Sofia and the rest of the teens to the suppliers. But when she made eye contact with Sofia again, the young lady shook her head as if she already know what Jing Jing was about to do.


    There was no need for an introduction. Jing Jing clasped both her hands in understanding and faced the suppliers once more.


    "Thank you. I will ask someone to check the baskets first. Please wait for a while," Jing Jing spoke and her eyes wandered around the corners of the place, scanning for a particular person. Sofia had instructed her to collaborate with Danny and Derek to arrange everything. All the tasks were formally distributed by every member of the Double Sigma fraternity.


    "Who are you looking, Miss Jing Jing?" Joey inquired. He squatted on the floor and opened the basket that contained onions, garlic, and other spices.


    "Hmm... Joey, please get Danny here. He is in charge of the kitchen tasks. He should check all these ingredients," Jing Jing politely requested. But before Joey could take a stand and open his mouth, Danny was already walking his way towards them.


    "Ahh... here he is..." Jing Jing commented and gave the paper to him.


    Danny did not speak a word. He swiftly took the receipt from Jing Jing''s hand and just directly opened the baskets.


    All of them watched while Danny examined the baskets one after another. His movements were fast yet he was also careful not to damage them.


    "Bro, you are an expert!" Joey subconsciously commented.


    After a while of examining the meats and counting the vegetables, the man gestured a thumbs up. "All are here. It''s complete as indicated in the receipt."


    "Thank you for delivering it on time," Jing Jing spoke to the two men. She had made an advance payment to them and also requested to deliver it at 5:30 AM. Surprisingly, they really arrived sharply on time.


    "No problem, it''s our pleasure making business with you, Ms. Jing Jing. Then, we will take our leave," the elder man stated and walked away.


    "Thank you!" Jing Jing repeated while watching the retreating figures. Shen then looked at the teens with a small smile on her lips. "Alright, the kitchen should start preparing our dishes now. Later, there will be organizers of the wedding that will also come to decorate the reception area on the second floor. Miss Sofia, do you have other instructions?"


    "I want to observe the cooks in the kitchen," Sofia simply replied. She hoped to see and learn how the dishes in the district were prepared.


    "Of course," Danny said and returned the receipt to Jing Jing. He then picked the basket of vegetables.  Joey, Clark, and Stephen also carried the other remaining three baskets. Then the group walked towards the kitchen area.


    The room was not big. When they entered, the space instantly sink. There were two sinks attached to the wall and then three stoves next to it. Typical kitchen drawers and cabinets were placed on the side and serving plates and bowls were on the countertop situated at the center.


    "Sof, I will just be outside and enjoy the morning air," Claire suddenly spoke. With so many of them, the space in the kitchen was really hard to navigate.


    "Okay, we will call you later, Claire," Sofia replied and smiled at her.


    "Me too, I''m going out," Clark quickly followed.


    "This couple..." Joey pouted and stared at their retreating figure until they stepped out.


    One staff started to cut vegetables while the other was washing the meat.


    "Miss, do not throw the stalks and seeds. Let''s replant them on the backside," Sofia mumbled to the staff that was handling the vegetables.


    "Okay, ma''am," the staff respectfully answered and continued her work.


    "You want to have a vegetable garden, Miss Sofia? " Jing Jing asked.


    "Ohh... Well, there is a vacant lot at the back, sister Jing. I thought we can use it. This way, we can minimize the budget for the ingredients next time and save even a little money from it," Sofia responded.


    "That''s a good idea, Miss Sofia! I will take care of planting these vegetables later. Just tell me which part you want them to be planted," Danny offered before Jing Jing could reply to her.


    "Then, thank you. You can plant them anywhere at the back. Just arrange it however you like," Sofia answered.


    "I will help you making vegetable garden. We should buy small pots for the seeds to grow. I''ve always wanted to try gardening but too busy to my previous job!" Jing Jing suggested with glint of excitement on her face.


    "I am raised in the mountains. So, gardening is common there. I think, it''s effective to save money if we plant some of the ingredients," Sofia mumbled referring to the original owner of her body.


    "Ohh... if you are raised in the mountains, how about getting our supply to the farmers? Miss Sofia, it''s more cheap if we buy directly to them," Jing Jing suddenly stated.


    "That''s also a good plan, sister Jing. But, we have not enough time to go there. Maybe, once we gain profit, let''s invest in a vehicle to be use for the company," Sofia casually replied thinking of the projects that they should acquire.


    "I agree. It''s indeed time consuming to go to the mountains..." Jing Jing trailed.


    It was probably fine if they were focused in their business. That way, they have enough time to travel to the mountains. However, she was reminded by the fact that her boss was not only a student but also a pro gamer and endorser.


    Sofia''s time is more precious than saving money for their ingredients.

 Chapter 289 - Soft Opening Day (7)

    Minutes flew by in a flash and the sound of chopping and clacking of utensils enveloped the room. Smoke slowly formed from the pots and it slowly move its way to the ceiling until it dissipated in the air.


    One after another, dishes were cooked and prepared by the staff in silent.


    On the side, Sofia quietly observed the staff that was carefully transferring the dishes in the serving plates.


    Beside her, Stephen secretly peeked at her expression that reflected a deep concentration. He raised his right hand yet hesitated for a moment. But, after a few seconds of thought, he softly placed his palm on the top of her head.


    In an instant, Sofia''s concentration was disrupted by the warmth of Stephen''s palm. The thoughts in her mind vanished right away and Stephen''s gesture gave her a relaxing feeling.


    Sofia looked up and meet his gaze. Instinctively, her body moved closer to his side. Both exchanged a sweet smile yet no words came out of their mouth.


    Jing Jing also peeked at the two and secretly giggle. Joey on the other hand was busy fiddling with his phone and scrolling down the posts on his social media.


    "Ehh... let''s have a picture! Guys, come! Come!" Joey spoke and positioned his phone. His face instantly appeared on the screen. He slightly combed his hair using his other hand and then the group quickly joined him.


    Stephen''s hand that was on Sofia''s head formed into a peace sign and he moved his face near her ear.


    Jing Jing held her thumbs up and Joey was making an ''ok'' gesture.


    Sofia smiled while watching them making different hand signs on the screen. She only gave a formal smile and clasped both her hands.


    "One, two, three... smile!" Joey signaled before he snapped their picture. He then look at the screen and mumbled the admiration of his photography product, "Nice, nice!"


    Somehow, the smoke coming from the boiling pot behind them gave an illusory background of a heavenly image. It was indeed a good picture.


    "Send the picture to our group chat, Joey. I will compile it with the previous photos of our group," Jing Jing stated after getting a glimpse of their picture.


    "Okay, no problem! Hehe, our background looks so cool!" Joey said and quickly sent the photo.


    "Let''s take more pictures with Clark and Claire," Sofia simply said.


    "Ahhh... Sof, maybe, they are having their own moments as a couple. Let''s not disturb them," Joey chuckled in a teasing tone.


    "Hmmn... right, right," Stephen hummed his agreement.


    The daylight finally stretched the horizon. Many dishes were placed on the table in the serving dish. Danny was making his list to monitor the cooked food.


    After a while, he put his list on the table and took four small plates and four spoons on the counter. He moved his feet and went towards Sofia and said, "Miss Sofia, do you want to taste the dishes?"


    Before Sofia could speak her response, he already put the small plate in her hand and also distributed the others to Jing Jing, Stephen, and Joey.


    "Okay," Sofia mumbled and stared at the small plate in her hand. One moment it was empty but in a blink of an eye, a piece of meat was carefully placed on it.


    "This one looks delicious too," Stephen casually said. Then, he picked another dish and added it to Sofia''s small plate.


    Sofia smiled at him. She also scooped ground meat and put them on Stephen''s plate to reciprocate his gesture.


    "Ugghh! Have some respect to singles like me!" Joey shook his head and rolled his eyes.


    "Haha, you are single? Bro, I saw you chatting with a girl earlier. You even called her ''darling''," Stephen smirked as he recalled Joey scrolling in his social media and chatting with a random girl with a pretty face in the profile picture.


    "Joey ahh... if you have a girl, you can introduce her to us. No need to keep your relationship a secret," Sofia commented. A glint of playfulness flashed in her eyes and Joey pouted his lips. He took a deep breath and finally pick a piece of meat on the serving plate.


    "I was just casually chatting. What girlfriend?" Joey grumbled and took a bite of the food that he picked.


    "Ehh... if you play with girls... karma will hunt you down," Jing Jing stated. Her plate was already full of leafy vegetables.


    "Hahaha... that''s true. Ms. Jing Jing is considerate to give you a warning, bro!" Stephen chuckled.


    Sofia took her time to savor all the tastes of every dish.


    "How is it, Miss Sofia?" Danny asked with an expectant look on his face.


    "It''s good... Flavoury," Sofia softly replied and walked towards the sink. She put down her plate.


    A staff quickly went next to her, "I''ll handle this, Miss Sofia!"


    "Thank you," Sofia replied to the staff. "I''ll go to the dining area and check my emails first. Do you want to stay here?" she asked her companions.


    "We will come with you," the group replied right away.


    In the dining hall, every table was already arranged according to the numbers of customers that had a reservation to them.


    They sat on the six-seater table and took out their phones. Their movements were almost synchronized from the time they took their seats and unlocked their phones. A staff that was passing by could not help but felt amazed by how their movements were the same.


    There were no more discussions between the group. They focused their attention on their phone. Only Stephen did not do anything other than watch Sofia.


    The young lady does not seem to mind his gaze while she read messages in her inbox.


    After a while, Sofia exited the email and opened the videos about modeling that she had saved before.


    "Let''s watch these video clips. We can take ideas of proper pose to make later," Sofia mumbled and leaned closer to Stephen.


    Instinctively, his arms encased on the side of Sofia''s chair and peered at her phone closer. "You''ve watched these videos before?"


    On the phone screen were different shoes and sandals with models posing them. There was a model wearing a sporty attire and there was also in a casual clothes. Then, one of the models started to move slowly, giving a step-by-step explanation of his post. Even its advantage and such was discussed on it.


    "Yes. I watched it once already. But, I haven''t mastered their small gestures and subtle pose. I''m learning how to have a proper bearing in front of the camera," Sofia softly giggled. She tilted her phone for them to


    "I think you don''t need to watch this, Sof. Hmmn... How you walk, how you stand, how you take a sit... even your small movements... even now... you look perfect," Stephen whispered. It was not a word of flattery nor a simple compliment. He meant it.


    Sofia may not be aware of how she moves in the eyes of others, but even with Jing Jing and her other friends, she had a regal aura within her. It was something that not even models could easily replicate.


    Sofia curled her lips into a smile for a split second before she composed her expression. She adjusted her sitting position and trained her eyes on the phone screen. For a moment she was rendered speechless.


    For some reason, Stephen''s words gave her a different sense of feeling. Almost as if it was causing her to feel shy but also confident.


    "How about you? You don''t want to watch it, Steph?" Sofia asked without looking at him.


    "I will watch it. Let''s watch, let''s watch," Stephen mumbled and helped Sofia held her phone. Their hands made a very slight skin contact but its impact almost made their body trembled.


    "Ehem! What are you two watching? Hmmn?" Jing Jing suddenly moved her chair and joined them.


    Sofia quickly faced Jing Jing and said, "There are random videos about modeling here. Sister Jing, do you have recommendations?"


    "Well, unfortunately, I never paid attention to modeling before. But, watching tutorial videos is definitely helpful. I''m sure you''ll be able to pull it off," Jing Jing responded.


    "Sof, just be confident when facing the camera. Hehe," Joey simply stated with random poses in the air, bending his arm and projecting his muscle with full of confidence.


    "Bro, your muscle will not wear the sneakers! Why are you posing like that?" Stephen joked but reminded him about the product that they would shoot.


    "Ahhh... hehehe," Joey scratched his head and laughed awkwardly. "Still, the key to good visual is confidence! Trust me!"


    "We trust you, Joey. After all, you are the most experienced member in our squad in terms of modeling!" Sofia responded thoughtfully. "Let''s watch this video to gain more ideas. Come," Sofia urged him to join.


    ~


    "Miss Sofia, there are people outside. They said that they will decorate for the wedding," one of the staff approached them.


    "Ohh... they are early. I''ll go met them," Sofia said and let Stephen held her phone.. She quickly excused herself and went to meet the decorators waiting outside.

 Chapter 290 - Soft Opening Day (8)

    Claire and Clark were just outside talking about random things. Both of them were watching at the horizon, staring at the spectacular sunrise.


    "Claire, when Sofia told us about the kitchen shear, you were about to say something... but, I noticed that you hesitated and went silent?" Clark softly asked.


    "I was just surprised that Sofia is so knowledgeable. In terms of gaming, it is expected. In terms of business planning, I think she is a genius at learning her skills online. But, in terms of cooking, I never thought she would also know the details of kitchen shear!" Claire explained with a heavy sigh.


    "Sofia is capable. You too... You are capable! Aren''t we lucky to the two of you?" Clark murmured. He shifted his gaze from the sunrise towards Claire''s face.


    "Lucky... hmmn, it''s just that... ahhh, I don''t know... whatever. She is the very first friend that I have. The only friend that stayed true to me for the longest time. So, I am always protective of her. However, she does not seem to need my protection anymore," Claire pouted.


    "Now, it''s her who is protecting us..." Clark chuckled and remembered the incident with the report in their school gate.


    While the two were busy gazing at the sky, a red sedan parked next to Jing Jing''s car. Then, two more service trucks followed. Now, the side of the road looked crammed as the five vehicles formed a line in parking.


    "Who could be the driver of that car?" Clark spoke and recognized that the red sedan was a limited edition car. Claire may not be able to react to the sedan but Clark''s curiosity was piqued by its sight.


    Claire frowned at his remarks and raised her eyebrow. "Why do you want to know who is driving the car?" she instantly asked.


    Sensing Claire''s sudden shift of tone, Clark quickly reached her hand and smiled sheepishly. "The car is limited edition. I am just saying it casually. I don''t really want to know the driver! It''s just a reaction after seeing a rare vehicle."


    "Since the car is parked next to Ms. Jing Jing''s, then, the driver of that red car must be connected to Sofia too?" Claire analyzed. Since it was only them who managed to open early, she assumed that whoever he is, he must be working in their business them too!


    "Yes, that''s possible!" Clark replied and stare at the red sedan.


    The door of the red sedan opened and an elder man slowly stepped out of it. He looked in the direction of Claire before he assisted the elder woman to step out of the car too.


    "Maybe Sofia''s grandparents?" Clark tried to make a guess while the two elders were still far away from them.


    For a moment, the two elders just looked around and observed the buildings. They just stood there while holding each other''s hands. Seeing them holding hands sweetly, Clark also interlocked his fingers with Claire''s fingers.


    "Sofia''s grandparents do not have a car. And they do not wear this kind of clothing too," Claire quickly replied while examining the newcomer''s clothes. The newcomers wore a descent pair of formal suits and the way they walked seemed to have held a different level of authority. It was exactly their appearance that made Clark a conclusion that Sofia and the two elders were very similar in bearing. The similarity of their presence and Sofia''s seemed to have held the same vibe even though they were a few meters away from him.


    "This is the intersection street... There is nothing much that changed in this area," the elder man mumbled.


    "Hehe, we came here to inspect the place. I did not expect that the establishment is also open. Should we go inside?" the elder woman also commented.


    "I think Ms. Jing Jing is already there. Then, let''s go and meet the business owner of this establishment," the elder man stated.


    Then, the two of them did not waste their time. They proceed to walk slowly approaching Claire and Clark.


    "Hello! I saw Ms. Jing Jing''s car. Hehe," the elder man casually greeted them.


    Claire and Clark bowed their head slightly and said in unison, "Good morning, guests! Ms. Jing Jing is inside."


    "Guests?" the elder woman gave them a confused look. Even more, Clark and Claire were also baffled by her expression.


    "Haha, this.. well... I think that the two of you also work in this establishment? There is a wedding event tomorrow that will use this establishment as the reception. We will be decorating the place," the elder man easily explained.


    "Ohh... yes. Sorry, you just looked similar to our leader," Clark stated.


    Just as Claire opened her mouth to speak her response too, Sofia chimed behind her...


    "Sir! Ma''am! A fine morning! Good to see you both! Let me introduce my business friends. You may have heard of them for we are in the same gaming squad. Here is Claire and this is Clark!" Sofia introduced.


    "Miss Sofia is actually here too!? I thought it would only be Ms. Jing Jing who is here to facilitate the first day of business! Hehehe," the elder woman stated.


    "Ohh... haha I see, the generation of youth is really promising! Hehe, Miss Sofia, we did not expect that your establishment is open already! Great job!" the elder man also complimented while giving them a friendly smile.


    "Yes! We thought that we should come here to check the vicinity. But, we were shocked to see that there are already employees working at such early hour!" the elder woman also expressed.


    "Hmmn, this is our first day of operation, so, we are checking everything to avoid mistakes. Please come in! I"ll guide you to the wedding reception," Sofia stated and gestured for them to enter.


    "Sof, who are they?" Claire secretly whispered to Sofia while stealing glances at the two.


    "They are Brent''s wedding organizer. They will be decorating the second floor for the wedding reception tomorrow," Sofia simply replied.


    "Ahhh... yes, I remembered it now. I think you''ve mentioned them to us," Claire spoke while repeatedly nodding her head.


    "Hmm... That''s them. Anyway, we tasted the dishes on our menu. If you two want to taste too, go to the kitchen," Sofia suggested.


    Hearing Sofia''s words, Claire''s attention quickly shifted from the two elder couples to the food tasting on their menu.


    "Really? I will taste the dishes! Come, Clark! Let''s taste them together!" Claire exclaimed and grabbed Clark''s wrist. They swiftly dashed their way towards the kitchen while Clark muttered for her to slow down.


    For a while, Sofia looked at the two love birds crossing the entrance and walked towards the dining area and then to the kitchen.


    "Ms. Claire, have you seen Miss Sofia?" Jing Jing called them before they could enter the kitchen door.


    "Ms Jing Jing, Sofia is outside. She is talking with the organizers of the wedding! Claire calmly stated.


    Outside the establishment, Sofia had sensed the deep curiosity of the two elders.


    "The boy looks familiar. Where did I see him? Hmmmn," the elder man sounded while the three of them were watching Clark and Claire walked in a hurry.


    "He is the second young master of the Zhang family, sir. Perhaps, you have seen him before in his family gatherings. I think Clark looked like his father too," Sofia stated.


    "Ahhh... he does resemble Mr. Zhang. It must be from events. How did you easily get a partnership with Mr. Zhang in your business, young lady? He even spent his time to lend his son to you!" the elder woman stated.


    "Hahaha... we are just friends. There is no business partnership between his father and us," Sofia replied in a simple manner.


    "If you don''t mind, can we start decorating, Miss Sofia? In fact, as what we mentioned earlier, my wife and I... we did not expect you to open your establishment so early.... but now that there is already an opportunity to start doing our work, maybe we can put our things in the location?" the elder man stated.


    "Of course!" Sofia agreed.


    "Alright!" the elder man spoke and then looked at the two service vehicles that were parked behind his red sedan. He waved his hand and workers quickly jumped out of the service vehicles. "Bring the tools and the pieces of equipment. We can start decorating early and rest early!"


    Several employees quickly advanced their way with different tools in their hands.


    "You don''t need to trouble yourself, young lady. They can do their job well. Just continue with what you are doing before we arrived. We know that you are busy," the elder woman stated.


    "Haha, not yet. Later, we will be busy once the store is open for customers. We are still preparing. If you don''t mind, can I offer you a drink and meal for breakfast?" Sofia smiled at them.


    "Ohh.... you are so thoughtful, young lady! Thank you for the offer but no need to prepare anything. We just want to see the place only and will be back to our home to eat," the elder woman stated.


    The receding footsteps of the group of employees resounded as they climb upstairs and made their way to the location. Sofia carefully observed the things that they were carrying before she returned her attention to the two elders.


    "I will accompany you," Sofia offered.

 Chapter 291 - Soft Opening Day (9)

    Sofia took her time and patiently followed the two elders. They wander around the vicinity of her establishment. As they walked at a slow pace, somehow, their figures would give the impression of grandparents and a filial granddaughter.


    Whilst the three of them continue to check the surrounding area, another black van parked on the side of the road. Three men hopped out of the vehicle. Based on their clothing and the equipment that each of them were holding, one could tell that they were from a press company.


    The one carrying a camera was a bald guy that looked like he was in his early fifties. Because of the sunrise, his head shine brightly.


    The other two men appeared so much younger than him. Yet, these two have a distinctive appeal. The reporter holding the microphone had a charming face while the other person also looked cool. The two young men possessed the appearance that viewers would really love to watch.


    "Here is the dining place that is opening today. We should cover this story. Since the press company of Mr. Wang had made them famous, we should give the viewers a follow-up report!" the male reporter told his companion in a formal tone. There was no indication of emotion on his face as he stared at the door of Sofia''s place.


    "How about we start to take video in that angle?" the cameraman suggested. He moved his lips to signal the direction of the several cars that parked.


    "Hang on," the reporter said while holding the microphone in his hand tightly. There was suddenly a small amount of hesitation that flashed in his face while staring at the red sedan on the side of the street.


    "What is it?" the cameraman questioned while adjusting the camera angle. He did not even bother to look and just focused his attention on his equipment.


    "See that red car? Wait... is the dining establishment owned by the famous Carmella Cakes owners? I recognize their car at one glance," the reporter speculated.


    The cameraman immediately looked in the direction. "Really? Well, the couple is actually friendly. We can clearly interview them."


    "Hahaha... maybe, Mr. Wang did not leak the information of the business owners because he knew that we can approach them anytime!" the reporter speculated. He then recalled vividly the particular announcements that boss Wang''s company made several times. There was not even a single piece of information about the owners. Hence, his assumption was natural.


    "Let''s not waste our time. We will shoot our video once we meet the couple!" the cameraman stated and quickly crossed the road. The reporter followed but their third companion did not move his feet. He just stood there and stared at the buildings.


    "Ying, hurry!" the reporter called him after realizing that the man did not follow him.


    While the man named Ying crossed the road, Sofia and the two elders had also emerged on the side of the building.


    Sofia was the first to notice the approaching reporter and waved his hand to signal not to take video. But the reporter was focused on the two elders and did not even give a glance at her.


    "Hello! Madam Carmella, good morning! Would you mind if we ask a few questions from the two of you?" the reporter quickly started. Behind him was the cameraman who instantly started filming. Ying on the other hand was the only one who took a glance at Sofia.


    Before the two elders could speak, Sofia stepped forward and blocked them.


    "Sir, we kindly ask not to film here. This is private property and they deserve to have their privacy," Sofia''s polite voice resounded.


    "Who are you? How bold! This is just a brief interview. We won''t take too much of their time," the reporter insisted.


    The two elders frowned. They felt offended by how the reporter responded to Sofia. But because they were facing the back of a young lady, they could not tell whether she was also offended.


    "Sir, please respect their privacy. Even if your interview is brief, they still have to eat their breakfast first. You may ask for them to schedule you an appointment later? Please don''t film," Sofia suggested calmly. Sofia would not mind the sudden appearance of any group of press. In fact, if the reporter had just asked her directly, she would definitely give them a chance for a brief interview. But because the reporter approached the elders, she felt obligated to protect their privacy while they were still on her property.


    "And who are you?" the reporter asked again. This time, annoyance was visible in his reflection as he glared at Sofia.


    Sofia raised her eyebrow and stared at the reporter''s face. After several seconds, she turned around and checked the two elders behind with a friendly smile on her face.


    "It''s fine. Hehe, he said it''s just a brief interview," the elder man stated. He gently tapped Sofia''s shoulder like a grandfather trying to offer her comfort. Sofia nodded her head and stepped aside.


    On the side, a smirk appeared on the reporter''s face, and the cameraman also grinned feeling that the favor was on their side.


    However, Ying remained his eyes on Sofia. And when the young lady stepped on the side, he actually walked next to her and spoke, "You are CEO UNRIVALED... I''m your fan! I''m Ying. Sorry if my companion raised his voice. We just want to cover the trending issues in our district. I admire your gameplay! Your squad is so awesome!"


    Sofia who felt worried for the two elders'' privacy, was slightly stunned by Ying''s compliments. She gestured a bow to him and said, "Mnn. Thanks, Ying..."


    She wanted to clarify what he meant about trending issues. But, she decided not to pry in their own business.


    "What is this interview all about, young man?" the elder man also inquired mirroring Sofia''s concern.


    The reporter bowed his head before he replied, "Sir, how do you feel about the dining business?"


    His question was not directly implying that the elders were the owner. He just threw a subjective query.


    Alas! If only he had asked him a straightforward question, he would have immediately cleared all his assumptions!


    "The dining business? It''s awesome! I look forward to its success! It''s brilliant!" the elder man replied while glancing at the front door of Sofia''s establishment. He also gave Sofia a reassuring smile and Sofia also smiled back and acknowledged his compliments.


    "Right! It''s indeed brilliant! Given your experience in business, can you share with our viewers your expectations in the business, sir? For example, possible expansion? Huge profit-earning? Or anything else of such," the reporter continued.


    "This dining business... I don''t dare put expectations. Because I know it will be great! It will break all my expectations! In fact, I never anticipated this kind of business technique to emerge in our place. Amazing, right? " the elder man replied proudly.


    "Yes, sir! It''s amazing! Thank you so much for your time!" the reporter stated. Since he said that he would just talk briefly, he deliberately asked general questions that would allow him to get the idea of the business from the owner''s perspective.


    The only problem was... he had obviously made a wrong assumption and also asked the wrong person!


    "You''re welcome," the elder man responded and they exchange a handshake.


    "Ahhh... one last thing, sir. We will film on that side of the road to see how the first day of the business goes!" the reported informed the man out of respect.


    "Hahaha... the road is a public area. You can always make a film there. As long as you don''t hinder the traffic, no one will complain. But, this area is private property. So, I hope, next time, if the owner asked you not to film, you should not insist! Young man, you are lucky that the owner is considerate," the elder man finished.


    "Thank you so much, sir!" the reporter stated, clearly unable to understand the meaning of the elder''s statement.


    "There is no next time. If you want to film in this area, you have to ask permission and appointment," Sofia declared in a soft yet meaningful tone.


    "Sure... sure... then, we will contact you next time??? Should we make appointment to you???" the reporter questioned and faced Sofia with a glint of sarcasm in his voice.


    The camera also focused on Sofia''s direction, but she stepped farther and avoided it.


    "There is no next time," Sofia repeated, this time, in a more firm tone.


    "Heh! Tsk!" the reporter clicked his tongue and then turned around and walked away.


    "So sorry... Ahhh... CEO UNRIVALED... Please don''t take an offense," Ying whispered on Sofia''s side.


    "If it''s not your mistake, there is no need for you to apologize, Ying. His demeanor towards me is his responsibility," Sofia simply replied.


    "Ying, come and help me!" the cameraman called Ying when they saw him stood still on Sofia''s side. The man was already setting up his other equipment to film the side of the road.


    "I''m coming!" Ying responded. He respectfully bowed his head at Sofia and the two elders before he walked towards his companion.


    After the press left, the elder woman leaned closer at Sofia. "Did you sense it? You did, right? Hehehe, I think they mistook us as the owner of your business?"


    "Mn... it''s probably because of your rare car, ma''am!" Sofia casually replied.. Unlike the reporter''s own assumption, she was certain that her guess was accurate.

 Chapter 292 - Soft Opening Day (10)

    They both glanced in the direction of the cars that were in one line on the side of the road. The red sedan was indeed too eye-catching and stood out from the rest of the vehicles that parked there.


    ''It''s the car?'' The elder man also released a rich chuckle upon hearing Sofia''s claim.


    "Is it our car? Hmmn, you are probably right, Sofia. We happened to be the only owner of that car in this district. Ahh, well, my husband is not so sensible too. He should have corrected that youngster!" the elder woman playfully glared at her husband. Then, she switched her attention to the other side of the road where the reporter and the cameraman were still preparing their equipment for better filming.


    "My dear wife, you are right. I did not sense anything of such! Their question does not seem to suggest that. Well, in any case, I can clear things to them, dear. How about I go and tell them?" the elder man stared gently at his wife. He wrapped his hand around her waist and pulled her closer to him.


    Sofia clasped her hand while watching how affectionate the elder man to his wife. Somehow, fragments of memories displayed in her thoughts. It was the images of her parents in her past life. The interaction of the two elders and how her past parents would behave were very similar.


    Then, she remembered what her mother in the past life had told her. ''It is great to find the right person at the right time. Don''t rush things and don''t mind your father. He is just playing around whenever he asks for you to get married.''


    "Go and tell them! Aren''t you ashamed that we are mistakenly owning the young lady''s business?" the elder woman pouted. She had an imposing aura on her face yet, with her pout, she looked more childish.


    The elder man could only release a sigh and casually kissed his wife''s head. "I''ll go then. Don''t be mad."


    Right as he was about to take a step, Sofia raised her hands and blocked his way.


    "There is no need to trouble going there... Such a thing won''t really impact our business. Let it be," Sofia quickly said. It doesn''t matter at all. She only cares about earning profit and attaining success. Whatever the press would report does not really matter much to her.


    For a moment, the two elders looked at one another. They exchanged a silent message in their gaze before nodding their heads.


    "Ohh... a-alright," the elder man mumbled with a knowing smile on his lips."Hehehe, then, I don''t need to trouble myself! We will take our leave, young lady. See you around!"


    "Wait a minute. Are you sure you don''t want to clear the misunderstanding?" the elder woman reacted.


    Sofia lowered her gaze and smiled at her. "It''s okay. Based on the questions of the reporter, he was asking for opinions, not facts. So, if he wants to assume the facts, it''s his responsibility."


    "But, we can not just let him mislead the public. If the public knows that you are the owner of this business, they would surely praise you!" the elder woman insisted.


    "Praises," Sofia paused. She looked at the sky and took a deep breath. "I''m okay without it. But, as a gamer, we have enough praises from other players. We are trending in social media with positive publicity. Hehehe..."


    "Hmmn, young people indeed care about social media image more than anything else," the old man hummed. He then led his wife to walk towards their car.


    Sofia did not respond to his remarks and just followed them until they reached the red sedan. The two elders waved goodbye at her before their vehicle started to move.


    Inside the car, the elder woman watched Sofia for a while. The young lady remained standing on the side of the road. But, her attention was in the other direction, watching the press group.


    "She is smarter... more than what I have expected. Humble too... yet, crafty and calculative. Nothing good will happen to those who choose to be on her bad side," the elder man suddenly said. His tone was bleak and his expression was serious.


    "She is," his wife agreed.


    "At such young age... I wonder how she had gained such personality?" the elder man questioned. He subconsciously brushed his hair using his hand and looked at his reflection through the car window.


    Even though they did not speak to Sofia further, but, before their departure, they had sensed something that made them realize how crafty Sofia was.


    The wrong assumption of the reporter... they realized that the young lady pretended like it was nothing. She does not look offended by it too. And she insisted not to trouble themselves.


    In the eyes of others, it could be seen simply as plain indifference. As if Sofia was not interested in what others would think about her business. But, in the eyes of the two experienced elders, there was more to it.


    They did not open up about what they had sensed nor confronted Sofia about it. However, they were certain that Sofia intentionally let the matter go for several reasons that perhaps only few could comprehend. Only those who had experienced crafty business schemes.


    Sofia''s indifference was intentional! Such behavior was on purpose!


    "She wants to hide their identity as the owners of that dining business. That''s too obvious now. Even in the initial report of their business, the owner''s names were not mentioned," the elder man started.


    "And the reporter had given her a good opportunity to really help her achieve what she wants. It''s not that she does not care what the press would report... it''s only because the misunderstanding would be beneficial for her. She recognized the opportunity and took it right away! Crafty and calculative indeed," his wife also supported.


    "Many people would be proud to own a business and tell the world about their success. The recognition from others of such capabilities was something that is worth receiving. But, she would rather avoid it," the elder man stated.


    "True. She is avoiding being seen in the corporate world... With the misunderstanding, no one will make a mess with them. She really used us there," the elder woman slightly laughed. Someone was too bold to take advantage of them in their presence.


    And it was not the first time! Sofia''s deal to take her business as the venue of the wedding reception was the first! Today was the second!


    If it was another person, they would probably complain about it! But, somehow, they did not speak a word to Sofia. Unexpectedly, they were willing to be taken advantage of!?


    "Ahhhahaha, she did use us, dear. The young lady was probably aware that it would not do good for her and her friends or her business if she would tell the world that they owned the business," the elder man sighed feeling a little bit lost.


    "If the corporate world knows them, they would be in great trouble. With their young ages, how many hungry corporate giants would probably want to create trouble for them? They will be swallowed and exploited before they could make their own names. That''s really smart to conceal their identity. Well, if she wants to use us, we can give her a hand," the elder woman muttered. She looked straight ahead to the familiar road of district 7 and observed the few citizens walking on the side of the road.


    "Dear, why do I have a different view? I have a feeling that even if the corporate giants would cause trouble in their business. They won''t be taken advantage of? I find it odd that I could think this way," the elder man expressed with a long sigh.


    "It''s her bearing that conveys a positive impression on her... Calm and collected. It''s hard to believe that a youngster is capable of showing that kind of personality. Don''t you think?" his wife said and smiled at him.


    "Now that you said it that way, her calmness is indeed something that does not match her age. Her eyes if full of certainty. Like she knows she would succeed in the decisions that she had chosen. Only those who have wisdom and those experienced people possessed such bearing," the elder man stated and smiled back at his wife.


    "The tide of the corporate world in our district is about to change. And the change is big," the elder woman clasped her hand and leaned her head to her husband''s shoulder. She slowly closed her eyes and revisited the events that had just transpired earlier. Sofia''s formal expression flashed in her thoughts. The calm composure. The authoritative aura seemed to wrap around her body whenever she move or talk. "I can''t sense any fakeness with her humility. She really is eloquent," the elder woman summarized her thoughts.


    "Hehehe... She is humble for a reason too. No matter how high and how big the achievements.... those who maintained their feet on the ground would not experience tragic fall," her husband chuckled.

 Chapter 293 - Soft Opening Day (11)

    Sofia stood still on the side of the road, the reporter also stared at her. Just by the expression on his face, one could tell that he really disliked Sofia in their first meeting...


    "Bro, that lady is CEO UNRIVALED. Back there, you acted so rudely," Ying told his companion with serious expression on his face. But the reporter only scoffed and did not even spare a glance at him.


    The sound of the roaring engine suddenly erupted as several motorcycles raced on the street. It gave the reporter a good reason to ignore Ying.


    On the side, their cameraman exhaled. "Ying, you don''t know... but, that girl was the reason why we were fired in the FDS Press Company."


    "Woah... you guys work at FDS Press Company? You''ve never told me about it!" Ying asked in surprise.


    "It was not worth mentioning!" the reporter sounded with full of bitterness in his tone.


    "Ehh... what had actually happened?" Ying questioned.


    "What happened was simple! We want to get an interview with her Chronos squad. Yet, all of them denied us with the opportunity to be part of the trending topic!" the cameraman stated.


    "Back then, our former company secured a contract to the organizer of the district tournament. But, that girl refused to be interviewed by our company. She was so adamant about it and even made us a laughingstock of that event," the reporter sighed.


    "So, you cannot really blame us if we have hatred towards her. She forced us to end our flourishing careers! I don''t like her attitude too. But, I''m too old to join in a verbal confrontation," the cameraman also expressed.


    It was indeed the day when Sofia refused to be interviewed by the FDS Press Company because she had already contracted an exclusive press with Jing Jing which was the press company owned by boss Wang!


    In fact, the reason why Sofia was still taking her time to observe the group was that she was also trying to figure out where she had met the reporter too. She just couldn''t remember the exact event, however, she was certain that it was not their first meeting!


    ~~


    While Sofia remained on the side of the road, Stephen and Joey were having their time checking the online trends. Jing Jing was also replying to random comments and expressing gratitude to their supporter.


    Out of a sudden, Danny quietly approached their table. He placed his hands behind his back and gave them a polite smile.


    "I have prepared a breakfast table, Ms. Jing Jing. Uhhm... Mr. Clark and Ms. Claire are already there," Danny announced. He then raised his hands and gestured them to head towards the kitchen area.


    Jing Jing stopped typing in her phone and looked up. She quickly returned his warm smile and stood from her seat. "You don''t have to be so formal to us. Hehe, Danny, we are all friends here."


    To think that the man was one of the leaders of the terrifying fraternity in their district. His calm behavior in front of them was truly unprecedented.


    "Mmn," Danny slightly nodded his head. "Miss Sofia... did she leave?" he suddenly asked after realizing that Sofia was not anywhere around the area.


    "Big bro, Sofia is meeting with the wedding organizers to decorate the venue for the wedding reception," Joey initiated a response with his usual cool and friendly smile. His tone also conveyed a sense of familiarity and closeness.


    Danny could not help but stare at him for a few seconds before he curled his lips into a wide smile. "Ohh..."


    "Thank you for preparing our breakfast, Danny. By the way, our cooks have finished cooking all the dishes?" Jing Jing followed.


    ''Our cooks,'' Danny almost trembled how his fraternity members were addressed so formally with respect.  Such words deeply moved him that he stood frozen for a while. He subconsciously took a deep breath and gathered back his composure. "Ahh... Y-Yes, everything is ready, Ms. Jing Jing. We had placed the dishes in the serving pan," Danny simply replied.


    "Great! I will call Sofia first. The two of you can go there. Wait for us," Jing Jing instructed and strode towards the door.


    "Big bro, you don''t mind if we call you that, right? Big bro?" Joey suddenly asked while they were walking in the opposite direction towards the kitchen area.


    "Hehe, of course, you can call me that," Danny spoke.


    "Nice! Big bro, can you teach us how to fight in close combat?" Joey inquired with the sparks of his eyes full of interest!


    With his question, Danny felt extremely at loss. In his mind, such a request was actually something that was too random. It sounded very inappropriate.


    "Don''t mind him, bro," Stephen spoke at Danny and turned around to scowl and furrow his brows towards Joey. "He is just like that. Spontaneous and not mindful of his words."


    "I am just asking! What''s wrong with me asking him casually?" Joey defended unable to see any problem with his question.


    "Heh. Bro, you are not asking....It''s not that simple! Ahh... teaching you their fighting style will never happen... you are insulting the brotherhood of their fraternity. Respect their boundary," Stephen whispered in silence.


    "No way! What do you mean boundry?" Joey probed.


    "There is this so-called boundary when it comes to learning how to combat with a frat leader. You need to be a member before you could cross that boundary! And not all members are guaranteed to have that opportunity too," Stephen explained in a hushed tone.


    "Ohh...." Joey gulped and the entire conversation went into silence. Now, Joey carefully glanced at Danny and felt so awkward. He then leaned at Stephen''s ear and asked, "What should I do? I think he was offended."


    Danny lowered his gaze and was staring on the floor while the three of them continued walking. He also felt conflicted about how to respond to Joey''s random request.


    "I don''t have any idea! Do you think his fraternity is something that you could just insult? Bro, you really need to think first before speaking," Stephen shrugged his shoulder and let him sat straight.


    Joey helplessly sighed. He had lost his courage to look at Danny or speak to him. In the end, he only consoled himself, ''I will ask Sofia for help later.''


    Meanwhile, Jing Jing could not help but raise her eyebrows after seeing what Sofia was doing. The young teen was staring blankly in space as if her mind was actually exploring the entire universe!


    "Miss Sofia, why are you alone here? The organizers?" she curiously asked.


    With Jing Jing''s sudden appearance, Sofia finally snapped back to reality. She slightly rubbed the side of his head and fixed her hair using her hand.


    "They already left, sister Jing. Do you need anything?" Sofia responded and faced Jing Jing.


    "Ahh... I don''t need anything yet. Hehe... But, Danny had prepared a breakfast for us. I think you need to eat. After an hour, this place will be very busy! We need enough energy," Jing Jing answered.


    "Hmmn, I am not hungry for now, sister Jing. I won''t have breakfast," Sofia softly refused.


    "Ohh..." Jing Jing paused and felt uneasy. She did not expect that Sofia would actually refuse the breakfast!


    Jing Jing cleared her throat and asked curiously, "Miss Sofia, are you waiting for another guest here?"


    Perhaps, there was a much more important thing that the young teen would do for her to decline eating breakfast. If so, she would really feel guilty eating inside while their leader was having a meeting outside!


    However, Sofia only shook her head. "Sister Jing, see those three people on the opposite side of the road? I feel like I have met that man who was holding the microphone."


    Jing Jing studied the features of the group. Then, she quickly recalled the district tournament interview.


    "Those were the staff of the contracted press during the last tournament. You refused them to have an interview because of boss Wang''s agreement as exclusive press," Jing Jing quickly replied.


    "Ahhh... " Sofia trailed and finally remembered the incident too. "They are really familiar. Now, I know who they are! No wonder they looked annoyed at me!"


    "Annoyed at you? What happened? Are they harassing you, Miss Sofia?" Jing Jing suddenly felt worried. She scanned the surroundings to see if the group have their companions. Only when she was certain that no one was hiding, she sighed, "Did they approach you, Miss Sofia?"


    "Not really. They don''t want to speak to me... In fact, they helped me a lot," Sofia smiled.


    "How did they help you?" Jing Jing probed further.


    Sofia quickly summarized their encounters. "They made a wrong assumption that could potentially give us benefits. They may report a different person as the owner of our business."


    Jing Jing scratched the top of her head. She could only smile after realizing the mistake. "It''s not too late to confront them!" If you have complaints, tell me directly, Miss Sofia. I''ll have my means to deal with them."


    "Nothing... they did not offend me. I think it''s me who offended them, sister Jing," Sofia giggled. "Hmmn... Let''s go and eat," she stated and gave one last glance at the the reporter.. Then, the two of them walked inside.

 Chapter 294 - Soft Opening Day (12)

    When Sofia entered the kitchen area, everything inside was set and placed in order. There was no more staff working which really hinted to her that all dishes were prepared and ready to serve.


    She subconsciously glanced at her watch to check the time. There were still 35 minutes before they would accept customers. ''To finish cooking at this time, they are undoubtedly efficient!''


    "Sof, breakfast is here! They put a little of everything on the menu for us to eat! Hehe, there is so much to choose!" Claire''s vibrant voice sounded on the side. The group was stationed at a medium-size round table with six chairs. It was situated at the end of the countertop near the sink area.


    As Sofia walked near the table, Stephen pulled the empty chair next to his seat for her. She slowly scanned their meals first and took her seat.


    "Our breakfast is too lavish. But, remember that we have a shoot at 12:30 PM. Eat moderately," Sofia told them before she picked a bowl and scooped a soup.


    "Miss Sofia, Danny told us that the boss should taste the food first. And if we have adjustments to the flavor, you may give them instructions anytime," Jing Jing stated and took her seat in between Joey and Clark.


    "Okay," Sofia responded.


    "By the way, I''ve received a delivery notification. Bro, the phone that we ordered last time will be delivered later. Hehe," Clark told Stephen.


    "You''ve purchased a phone online?" Sofia wondered.


    "Yes. The phone is the same model as mine," Clark said and showed Sofia his phone.


    "Ahhh... you guys are bragging at your newly released phone..." Joey pouted with a puppy look on his face. The group only chuckled at his childish expression.


    Then, Sofia look at Clark in the eye and asked, "Can you add another delivery for sister Heiz?"


    "You will buy her a phone? Miss Sofia, that is ---" Jing Jing commented but did not dare to speak her opinion. She thought it was too much. Yet, she also felt that it was not her place to remind Sofia of it.


    Sofia faced Jing Jing with an understanding gaze. Even if Jing Jing would not finish what she wanted to speak, Sofia could still comprehend her message. "Let''s think it this way. It''s convenient if sister Heiz also owned one. We can communicate with her easily. If there is a problem she can also assist us," Sofia simply said. She poured another soup into her bowl and quickly took a sip.


    Jing Jing slightly nodded her head and did not speak anymore.


    Stephen glanced at Sofia from time to time while enjoying the food. He realized that she was not actually eating anything and was just having soup!


    "Why are you not eating, Sof?" he leaned his head closer to Sofia and curiously whispered. He casually picked his fork and stabbed the piece of carrot on the serving plate. Sofia looked at him for a few seconds and carefully put down her bowl of soup.


    "I''ll eat after our shooting, Steph. Besides, I''m not yet hungry," Sofia whispered back.


    "Mmn," Stephen hummed and put down his fork. "I''ll also eat after our shooting."


    "Hahaha," Sofia stifled her laughter.


    Meanwhile, their other people looked at them as if they were suddenly immersed in their own world.


    "Ehh.... could you share what you are talking about? You guys are just whispering there," Joey called.


    "Nothing, nothing," Sofia responded while Stephen give him a death glare.


    "Ohh... Well, Sof, I have something to ask for your help," Joey continued and ignored Stephen''s cold expression.


    "My help? Did you get in trouble at school?" Sofia asked with a stern face.


    "No, no.... not in the school... Uhm--- well," Joey hesitated. He took a pause and look around to ensure that no one was in the kitchen other than them before he continued, "I think I have offended big brother Danny. Can you help me? I felt awkward to approach him now."


    Claire, Jing Jing, and Clark were just about to take a bite. When they heard Joey''s concern, they stopped their movements in mid-air and looked horrified.


    "You have offended who?" Jing Jing reacted in a hushed tone. She also put down her food and face Joey with a questioning look.


    "I think he said... he-- Joey... offended Danny?" Claire also spoke. Disbelief was evident in her tone. She glanced at Clark to seek confirmation.


    "Yeah, I heard it too," Clark quickly confirmed.


    Even Sofia was taken aback by Joey''s revelation. Only Stephen did not show any reaction at all.


    The silent air around them suddenly felt tense. Sofia leaned on her seat and look around too. Then, she softly asked, "Where is Danny?"


    In her mind, she was slightly anxious. Perhaps, the reason why there was no longer any staff in the kitchen area was that the man had decided to leave?


    Stephen placed a hand on her shoulder and gently gave her a gentle tap. He then smiled at her and said, "It''s not really serious, Sof."


    Now, Sofia had become more confused. But before she could ask him, Joey spoke once more...


    "Ahh... bro, it''s you who told me about it. I am very worried here. Yet, you are saying that it''s not serious? I think it''s serious. Sof, help me please."


    This time, all eyes looked in Stephen''s direction.


    "I was just stating what I know. I am not sure if he was offended," Stephen defended right away.


    "Wait! The two of you... explain what happened," Jing Jing demanded.


    "This... I was asking if big brother Danny could teach me some combat skills. I asked it casually and did not think too much about it," Joey sighed. He also felt that it was his lack of knowledge that really offended Danny. But, he did not know how to resolve it without feeling awkward.


    "Huh? Why do you need to learn combat skills? Are you planning to be a boxer or something related to a fighting career in the future?" Sofia calmly inquired.


    "Sof, that''s not the point. It''s not about a future career," Stephen carefully told Sofia before their conversation would go in a different direction.


    "Then what is the point really?" Sofia asked.


    "Danny is a frat leader. Fraternity like them only shared their fighting skills with their most trusted members. Since Joey asked it even if he is not a member of his fraternity, it would be taken as an insult of his authority," Stephen explained.


    "Well, if Stephen says it''s not that serious... then, we can only hope that he is right. At least, he is the only one who knows about this fraternity''s rules. Joey, you should just tell Danny that you don''t know that there is that kind of tradition. I don''t know about it also," Sofia stated. Then, she tilted her head and gave a serious glance at Joey. "Now, let me ask though... why do you want to learn combat skills?" Sofia repeated.


    "I am not really thinking of changing career, Sof. I''m happy in our gaming career and the business too. I was just asking randomly at that time," Joey replied.


    "It''s why I told him to think before speaking," Stephen mumbled.


    "Bro, I''ve learned my lesson, okay. Next time, I will definitely shut my mouth," Joey grumbled.


    "And now the two of you are arguing?" Jing Jing stood. She crossed her arms around her chest and gave the two teens a warning look.


    Sofia tucked her hair behind her ears and pursed her lips. "Finish your breakfast first. Don''t argue while eating. I will talk with Danny about it. Sister Jing, finish your food. All misunderstanding can be solved in a peaceful way."


    Jing Jing quickly sat back and sighed. "I will handle it, Miss Sofia. You don''t need to trouble yourself. I can explain to Danny later."


    "Okay. Well, Joey, even if it''s because of lack of awareness, you should apologize and own your mistake. Go with sister Jing after you finished eating," Sofia stated and took her soup in one gulp. "If you want to learn combat skills, then, you can enroll in special courses. I think there are coaches who teach the basics. But... um, you have to manage your time. Our schedule right now is very tight."


    "Okay, Sof. I should be accountable for my lapses. I also want to apologize earlier but, I''m afraid that I would just make things worst. So I think, having Ms. Jing Jing will definitely clear things up," Joey thoughtfully responded.


    "Good!" Sofia smiled and switched her attention to Stephen. "How about you?" she asked.


    "What about me?" Stephen looked innocent and felt at a loss of what Sofia wanted to know.


    "Ahh, we are all friends. If there is a misunderstanding, help each other out. But, you caused Joey to feel anxious. You could have just explained to Danny about Joey''s lack of awareness and solved the problem on the spot," Sofia lectured.


    "Ohh... next time, Sof," Stephen muttered. Indeed, he could have just solved the problem on the spot.. However, at that time, when the incident happened, he just wanted his friend to learn a lesson.

 Chapter 295 - Soft Opening Day (13)

    "It''s a minor misunderstanding. I don''t think they would take it as a big deal," Clark stated to comfort his friends after sensing the tension that surround them. "Sof, I will order the other phone," he added and focused his attention on his mobile phone.


    "If it''s for the other sister, just take the blue phone," Claire suggested after taking a peek at Clark''s mobile screen. She remembered that the color was the same as Heiz''s eyes when they met. However, she was not aware that it was but just a contact lens.


    "Okay," Clark softly responded and placed his order. Then, he looked up to meet Claire''s gaze, "Do you want to change your phone too? I can order the new model..."


    "Nahh," Claire shook her head and instantly refused. "I''m fine with my phone now."


    "Ohh... Well, if you change your mind, just tell me," Clark smiled. He then resumed scrolling on his phone.


    Sofia crossed her legs and adjusted her sitting position. She clasped her hand and watched at the partially-eaten dishes on their table.


    "Continue our breakfast. There is still food here. We can''t be wasteful," Sofia said after realizing that everyone abruptly stopped eating. She also moved the other dishes towards Jing Jing and Claire and urged them to finish them.


    Claire casually took one of the vegetable dishes that Sofia gave her. She put the remaining content on her plate and took a small bite. She smiled at Sofia but there was a glimmer of uncertainty in her eyes.


    "Sof, we will be okay, right? Please tell me that our business will not be affected by the misunderstanding? Joey did not mean it. It should be fine, right?" Claire carefully asked and continued devouring her meal.


    Jing Jing opened her mouth to respond to Claire, however, she hesitated after seeing the serious expression on Sofia''s face. She then decided to not speak and just continue eating.


    On the other hand, Sofia pondered for a few seconds and stared blankly at the empty bowl. There was a small frown on her forehead that made Joey feel uneasy.


    "It will be fine. There might not be a misunderstanding that exists really," Stephen mumbled to her. He suddenly felt guilty for not helping Joey settle the issue earlier.


    Despite their words, Sofia did not budge. Her mind started to wander as she was trying to figure out the worst-case scenario if the misunderstanding would really become severe.


    At first, she was anxious if their employees would decide to leave. But then, she also realized that the situation of her present life in district 7 was completely different from her past life.


    In her past life, job hiring competition became a trend like some sort of fashion fad. There was even an instance that companies would host a job fair event to extend their interest in looking for employees. There was so many available jobs for the citizens to choose.


    To say, since many employers were looking for employees and so, it was easy for employees to switch jobs.


    In her past life, the issue she had encountered was mostly focused on the tenacity rate of employment instead of the unemployment rate! This issue was focused on how long employee would be willing to stay in the company rather than the lack of jobs for the citizens.


    Especially when there is a better financial benefit for them in the new company, some employees would not even bat an eye and would quickly transfer to a new job.


    This was the reason why Sofia became slightly anxious about the misunderstanding. She even thought that Danny may have left them already!


    There were a series of questions that floated in Sofia''s mind. ''What if the entire Double Sigma Fraternity would decide to quit because of the misunderstanding? One word from their leaders would be enough for them not to show up the next day. Then, how would our business operate without enough manpower?''


    The answer was also clear to her. Without staff that would work for them, they would be forced to stop their operation. But, given their circumstance - they already have advanced reservations and the wedding ceremony on schedule. Stopping their business operation would never be an option for them!


    Sofia secretly sighed. ''Even if it was not a major conflict, there are kinds of people who would not tolerate disrespect and could easily decide to cut ties once their boundaries and limitations are crossed.''


    However, as Sofia pondered deeper, she also realized that in their district 7, only their group had offered employment for Double Sigma Fraternity. Such a situation was something that was far from her past life.


    The issue in district 7 was still on the rate of unemployment due to the unmet qualifications of the employer. If the Double Sigma fraternity leaves their work, they may no longer find another job offer!


    Sofia looked up and curled her lips into a smile. She pressed her palm together and supported her chin by propping her elbow on the table. "It will be fine. All we need to do is to settle the misunderstanding."


    "Big brother Danny did not mention anything. But, I did get a feeling that he felt awkward when I asked him. Ms. Jing Jing, I can only rely on you to settle this matter," Joey stated with a gleam of pleading look on his face. He thought that it was a simple issue. Yet, after seeing the expression of Sofia and his companions, he finally reflected on his mistake.


    "Ahh.... Joey, you better be careful next time. For a moment, I really felt nervous when you said that you offended Danny. They are still terrifying. You can''t offend them," Jing Jing easily replied.


    "Yes, I will remember to be careful next time," Joey lowered his gaze and felt embarrassed.


    "No need to be dejected. It''s not like we cannot commit a mistake. It''s already good that you are willing to be accountable for it. Anyway, you can count on me. I will do my best to settle the misunderstanding. Here. Eat more so you won''t get anxious later when we talk with Danny. Haha," Jing Jing stated and pushed another dish on Joey''s side. After seeing Sofia''s expression of certainty, her anxiety also vanished.


    Sofia nodded her head and gave Jing Jing an approving look. "They are good leaders. Have you guys noticed? All our staff is working with minimal instruction from them. And I did not hear Danny nor Derek raise their voices when they spoke to the staff. That means their authority over their group is acknowledged by all their members. We should maintain respect to them."


    At the same time, unbeknownst to Sofia and her group, Danny and Derek were about to enter the kitchen area when they overheard Sofia''s compliment. The two quickly stopped their steps and looked at one another.


    "Bro, our young boss is complimenting us! She has good eyes and recognized us as good leaders!" Derek chuckled.


    "Should we call them? There are customers outside now. But, it''s still not 9 AM. What should we do?" Danny mumbled his concern and did not pay attention to the joyful expression of his brother.


    "They are not yet done eating. We should come back after five minutes! There is still time," Derek replied and swiftly grabbed Danny''s wrist. The two of them quickly walked away from the kitchen area.


    In the entrance door, the people had really started to gather. These people were very eager to enter. However, there was a good notice of close sign in the door. So, all the customers that came early could only take a photo of themselves and their group. After a minute, they shared their pictures on their social media account.


    Meanwhile, after eating their breakfast, Jing Jing and Joey did not waste their time and went out to look for Danny.


    With Sofia''s instruction to clear any misunderstanding, Joey suddenly felt his palms become sweaty.


    "Don''t be nervous, Joey!" Jing Jing told him and dragged him towards the front desk where she had already spotted Derek and Danny having an animated discussion.


    ~


    Back in the kitchen area, despite the many dishes that were served at their table, the group was able to finish every meal.


    Claire looked at their plates with a satisfied look on her face. She subconsciously rubbed her stomach and grinned at Sofia. "I''m so full. Ahhh... now, I don''t want to move. Hahaha, did you limit your meal, Sof? Why do I feel that I almost ate everything?! and you eat almost nothing!?"


    "Hehe, I''ll be fine. I''m going to eat plenty of food after our lunch shooting," Sofia replied.


    "I see... I''ll wash our plates to burn the food that I just ate and convert it to energy!" Claire said and took the initiative to clean their table. Clark and Stephen also helped her pile their bowls and plates on the sink.


    Just as Claire set herself to start washing the plates, a staff also happened to see her.


    Without hesitation, the staff dashed forward and instantly appeared on Claire''s side.


    "Ms. Claire, I''ll clean here. Thank you for clearing the plates on the table!" the staff smiled at her and snatched the dishwashing sponge and soup.


    "O-okay. T-thank you!" Claire responded and suddenly felt odd.. Another staff entered silently and helped her wash the utensils.

 Chapter 296 - Soft Opening Day (14)

    When Joey and Jing Jing exited the dining area, they quickly located Danny and Derek. The two men were just standing at the front desk area while observing the numbers of customers that gathered outside.


    "Danny, let''s have a quick chat before we open the entrance and let them in," Jing Jing called the man and gestured for him to follow her.


    However, before Danny could take a single step, he suddenly saw a familiar figure standing outside the door. Even Derek was slightly surprised to see the man.


    This man had his hand on both sides of his waist and stood in a dignified manner. His face was just inches away from their glass door of the entrance area, obviously trying to see the inside of the establishment.


    He suddenly raised his left hand and knocked on the door several times.


    In an instant, Danny and Derek turned around and faced the wall to avoid being recognized by the man.


    "W-wait--- Ms. Jing Jing, I think there is something important. Don''t open the door," Danny stated while facing the wall.


    Jing Jing was just about to attend to the guest that was knocking on the door when she heard Danny''s concern. When she looked at the front desk, her eyebrow raised.


    "Huh? Why are you facing the wall?" Jing Jing asked after halting her steps.


    "The man at the door is surely a troublemaker," Derek quickly replied still facing the wall.


    "What do you mean? Do you know him?" Jing Jing asked and walked towards the front desk. Joey could only scratch the back of his head after seeing the unusual behavior of the two men.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, it''s like this... w-well, uhhm..." Derek hesitated and suddenly lost of words on how he would explain the situation.


    Derek sighed and continued to speak, "That man paid us to make trouble of the former owner of this establishment. He wanted the owner to leave the business. So, if he sees us working for the new owner of this place, it will only cause great trouble! Miss Jing Jing, please tell us what to do?"


    "W-what?!" Jing Jing exclaimed and felt troubled. Earlier, she had been planning how she would settle the misunderstanding between Danny and Joey. But now, another problem had emerged!


    "Miss Jing Jing, it''s our fault. We failed to give tell you about it. How can we fix this?" Derek questioned.


    "My hair will turn grey in just a day because of you two! How could you not tell me this matter in advance? Some of our customers are already waiting outside!!" Jing Jing stomped her feet in anger. She exhaled loudly and glared at the entrance door where the man was still trying to take a peek at them.


    "Miss Jing Jing, we are really sorry," Danny spoke with full of sincerity.


    "HA! I can''t believe this. Let''s go to the kitchen to seek Miss Sofia''s instruction!" Jing Jing exclaimed and marched back to the kitchen. Derek and Danny quickly followed her.


    Jing Jing glanced and noticed that Joey was not moving along with them. She pondered for a while and realized that the boy may still feel awkward. "Joey, explain to the people outside that we will only open at 9 AM. Tell them that we are still preparing our tables. Please maintain an approachable expression on your face," she instructed and did not wait for his reply.


    Joey just gave her a quick nod and walked the other way.


    When Jing Jing entered, her troubled expression was very evident on her face. The people in the kitchen gave her a strange look.


    "Is something wrong?" Clark asked and kept away his phone.


    Since Jing Jing remained silent, the initial thought of Sofia and her other three companions inside the kitchen was still on the misunderstanding between Joey and Danny.


    "Bro, it was not intentional. It won''t happen again," Stephen voiced out.


    "Yes, we will always maintain mutual respect," Claire added worriedly.


    "AHH! It''s not what you think!" Jing Jing instantly said after realizing what the two meant. "It''s more serious than the misunderstanding!!!"


    "Sister Jing, calm down," Sofia stated and glanced at Derek and Danny. "Tell me what''s the problem," she continued after watching Jing Jing taking a deep breath.


    "The two of you, hurry and explain it to Miss Sofia!" Jing Jing suddenly stepped on the side and pushed Danny and Derek in front of Sofia.


    "Miss Sofia, in the past, we have purposely created trouble in this area to make the business owner quit their business. In fact, we are paid to do it. Now, the man that paid us was actually outside the entrance door and kept knocking!" Derek summarized their concern.


    Hearing this, Claire almost trembled in fright. She could not even tell if the reason why she felt frightened was because of the man that paid the Double Sigma Fraternity. Or the fraternity leader''s capability of making the former business owner quit doing his business!


    Clark swiftly went to Claire''s side after seeing the pale expression on her face. It was the same look when she was surrounded by the press outside their school. He simply put his hand over her shoulder and leaned closer to her. "Calm down," he whispered.


    "Everyone, take a seat. There are still 10 minutes before 9 AM," Sofia instructed while subconsciously rubbing her wristwatch. From time to time, she could not help but check if it was already 9 AM.


    Jing Jing sat near Sofia while Derek and Danny pulled a chair from the corner. Then, they followed her and took a seat next to her.


    "Alright, I only have two questions to make this matter clear. First..." Sofia looked at the two frat leaders in the eye. "Tell me how many people are potentially going to create trouble? Do you think this man has a companion or is he alone?"


    "He is alone. The other people outside are our customers," Derek replied with a sigh.


    "Second, who is this man?"  Sofia continued.


    Danny pursed his lips and tried to remember the identity of the man. "W-well, he is called... Mr. Jonathan. He owns the Soo Electronics, that building which is painted in maroon."


    "Ohh... a competitor then... I see," Sofia mumbled. She lowered her gaze and carefully thought of their situation. But, out of a sudden, she remembered the issue between Joey and Danny. "Hmmn, before we proceed to deal with external problems, we should solve internal conflicts first. Sister Jing, have you settled the misunderstanding?"


    Jing Jing scratched the side of her head and looked helpless. "Miss Sofia before I could speak about it, this situation suddenly happened. I have no time to settle it."


    "Ahh..." Sofia eyed Danny. Then, she asked, "Where is Joey?"


    "Joey... I asked him to explain to our customers that we are still preparing the tables. Shall I call him here?" Jing Jing answered.


    "Yes. Please call him here, sister Jing. Let''s solve any internal conflict before external problems," Sofia recited.


    "Alright, I''ll be back," Jing Jing said and quickly went out to look for Joey.


    "What''s the matter? What do you mean by internal conflict, Miss Sofia?" Derek curiously asked why watching at the retreating figure of Jing Jing.


    Sofia carefully brushed the side of her hair and look at him. "This is about the misunderstanding between Joey and Danny. I understand that Joey asked you to teach him about some combat lessons earlier?"


    "He... h-he as-asked w-what?" Derek stuttered and his eyes widened confirming to the Chronos squad members that it was indeed a serious issue! "What did he ask, bro?" Derek inquired again, this time facing Danny.


    "It was not intentional to disrespect your position or your fraternity. I am not also aware of the fraternity rules. Among us, only Stephen has little knowledge about it. And he told us about this offense. So, I hope that you can let this matter off? I''ve already reprimanded him to be careful next time. We apologize if we have offended you, Danny," Sofia calmly said.


    Derek took a gulp and inhaled sharply. "M-Miss Sofia... U-umm... there is no need to ask for an apology. Maybe my brother was just shocked when Joey asked him. In fact, it is me who is more hands-on when it comes to training our members. So... hehe, my brother was probably having an internal conflict of his own at that time too. But, you are our boss. If you want to learn our fighting style, I will surely share it with you! However, you can also rest assured that we will protect your group. So, learning how to fight is not necessary. You have the entire Double Sigma Fraternity behind your back! We won''t let anyone harm all our boss!"


    "That''s rather a generous offer. Thank you!" Sofia said.


    "You''re welcome! But in fact, we can only train people that are members of our fraternity. This is one of the rules that we follow. So, if Joey wants to learn, he has to be one of our brotherhoods too," Derek explained.


    Just then, Joey and Jing Jing also entered and joined them.


    "I''ll remain as the member of the Chronos squad! I''m sorry if I caused you to feel awkward, big bro! I did not intend to offend you," Joey spoke towards Danny before he took a seat near Stephen.

 Chapter 297 - Soft Opening Day (15)

    ''The time seemed to significantly move faster,'' Jing Jing secretly pondered as she continued to anticipate the clock to strike at 9 AM. ''That troublesome competitor and customers are waiting. But, Miss Sofia looked calm. Under the pressure of showing a good first impression on the first day of business, she seemed not to be affected at all!''


    The entire Chronos members sigh in relief. Fortunately, the outcome of the misunderstanding was not what they had expected earlier.


    Time is ticking yet, there was still so much to discuss around them.


    Sofia could only give Derek and Danny a grateful gaze with their favorable response and smile at them.


    "About the protection of your fraternity, it''s ---" Sofia paused her words. She was about to say it was unnecessary. That there was really no need for the fraternity leaders to offer protection to her group as they have no enemies anyway.


    But, out of a sudden, another fragment of memories from her last life flashed before her. A very vivid image replayed in her mind. There were two figures in her memories. One was her past self as Lisa, sitting comfortably in her office. And there was the head of her company''s security team, Mr. Jun.


    ''CEO Lisa, please allow my team to install bulletproof glass in your office. These past few days, some elites were kidnapped. Our district 2 might soon become chaotic. It''s good to be prepared.''


    Truth be told, in her past life, the situation in district 2 was indeed well-developed. The lavish life of heirs was commonly seen in the streets. Investors were eager to put the business in such a place. But, under the spotlight of becoming the place with the highest financial growth, criminals started to appear and targeted the rich family.


    ''There''s no need, Jun. My family and the entire Summer Holdings never had any enemies. No one will harm us.''


    Back at present time, for a few seconds, Sofia just stared blankly into the empty space while recalling these scenes in her past life.


    As the CEO of Summers Holdings Inc, such a case about protection was really proposed by the security team to her. But she directly rejected them thinking that no one would harm her. Only after transmigration, did she realize that she would not probably be dead if she had accepted her security team''s proposal.


    Now thinking of her present life, she was also surprised to have almost the same reaction - refusal.


    When it comes to the safety and security of her life, why did she refuse in the past? Why did she want to refuse it again?


    "With my complacent attitude towards having no enemy, the cost that I had to pay was way too priceless," Sofia mumbled to herself and took a deep breath. ''Forget it. What happened in the past can no longer be changed. But, in this new life, it served as an expensive lesson."


    "Miss Sofia, you suddenly look pale. Is everything alright?" Jing Jing pointed out after noticing that her change of expression was quite strange. While in a state of daze, she really felt as if something was suffocating her.


    "Hmm. Well..." Sofia took a deep breath and gathered her composure. "Since Danny and Derek are not offended by Joey''s request, everything is great! Everyone, we should thank them for being broadminded!" Sofia instructed them and they quickly spoke their thanks right away.


    Hearing her words, Danny waved his hands and shook his head, hinting that it was not a big deal.


    On the other side, Derek could only scratch his head and slightly laugh. "Ahaha, no need to thank us, Miss Sofia. This is not something that is worth mentioning."


    "It should be my fraternity that needs to thank you. We are very thankful for giving us formal and legal employment here," Danny expressed with a slight bow of his head. Derek nodded his head in agreement and offered a bow toward her too.


    "Hmm. We need your manpower to operate our business. You need our employment for daily survival. No need to thank us too. Let''s just work hard to earn a big profit. The more we earn, the more we can have convenience!" Sofia easily replied.


    "Yes! We will work hard! Miss Sofia, rest assured!" Danny and Derek said in chorus.


    "Regarding my squad''s protection, about your Double Sigma fraternity''s help, we will definitely not refuse," Sofia declared and sat properly. She moved both sides of her shoulder as she felt a little uncomfortable in her sitting position.


    "Great! We will make sure that no one will harm our benefactors! I promise, no one in the Chronos squad will get hurt as long as we are around!" Derek promised.


    "Of course, our combat skills are far different from those professional bodyguards. But we are not inferior when it comes to fighting. We are just used to fighting the street," Danny stated and looked at Clark. His words implied Clark''s social status and his family''s wealth.


    "I''m afraid it is also beyond our league to hire a professional bodyguard. And Clark''s family may have bodyguards... but, an extra helping hand is also better when it comes to fighting," Stephen stated.


    "Haha, bro, isn''t your family have bodyguards too? When it comes to numbers, my family has hired few..." Clark chuckled and looked Danny in the eye. "Still, those personal guards, it''s not ours. It belongs to our parents."


    "Understood," Danny spoke.


    For a moment, they become silent. Jing Jing suddenly felt more uneasy thinking that there was still another problem that they need to solve.


    "Ehem, ehem," Jing Jing purposely cleared her throat to give them a hint. Yet, after looking at Sofia''s face, she realized that there was another matter that the young lady was thinking. "A penny for your thoughts, Miss Sofia?" Jing Jing inquired.


    "Oh... I''m just thinking of this protection. Right now, even with our business, we cannot afford to pay a separate salary for our protection. We should discuss this matter once the company has sufficient money," Sofia stated.


    Since her mindset was designated mostly to the idea of doing business, such a consideration quickly formed in her mind. If one would provide them a service, they must provide a payment assigned for it. Even if the Double Sigma leaders would be willing to protect them freely, she would still insist to pay them.


    Derek and Danny exchange another meaningful look. The two of them instantly shared a tacit understanding of Sofia''s words. Business is business. Kinship and friendship are separate from business.


    "Miss Sofia, we are really lucky to meet you. You are so capable and knowledgeable of how business works. Let''s set aside the matter about separate salaries for now. There is someone outside that could compromise our first day of operation," Derek thoughtfully responded to remind Sofia that they were running out of time.


    Sofia pressed her palms and smiled. She then tapped her index finger on the table repeatedly.


    "Hmm... Alright! This internal issue made us feel a little bit anxious. But, since you are not offended by Joey''s request, then, thank you very much! Now that this matter is solved, I''ll have to trouble you sister Jing and handle Mr. Jonathan," Sofia said and switched her attention to Jing Jing.


    "Me? B-but Miss Sofia---" Jing Jing hesitated. But after she made eye contact with Sofia, she realized that it was the only solution. If the Chronos squad would meet the man, they would expose their identities.


    "Just have a casual conversation with him, sister Jing. We don''t know why he is here," Sofia easily told Jing Jing with a calm expression on her face.


    "Mr. Jonathan is up for no good for sure," Derek commented.


    "Although that man outside can be considered as the villain of the former business owner in this place, he may have a different motive for coming here today. It''s not good to be driven by prejudices. But, it''s also bad to be careless. Let''s just see his real intention first," Sofia emphasized. At the very least, she did not want to judge the man without hearing him first.


    "Please give me some suggestion of how to handle him, Miss Sofia," Jing Jing asked. For some reason, she suddenly felt that despite her years of working in the press company, her knowledge of handling people was far inferior to Sofia''s.


    "My suggestion? Make your conversation brief. Two minutes if possible. Then, if he still has other matters to discuss, later on, tell him to set an appointment and come back at around 4 PM," Sofia replied.


    "Why 4 PM, Sof?" Claire curiously asked.


    "Well, we have a photo shoot at 12:30 later. I think we will be able to finish the endorsement activity at around 3 PM. Then, I''ll come back here and I will talk with him personally," Sofia answered.


    "I see," Jing Jing softly muttered.


    "Sister Jing, just try to examine his real attention. This time, since both businesses are strangers, no need to indulge in another discussion. We just need to be friendly with him for now.. Then, let''s see if he is willing to establish a connection with us or the other way around," Sofia finished.

 Chapter 298 - Soft Opening Day (16)

    "How about us, Miss Sofia? Should we hide here until that man will take his leave?" Derek inquired after Jing Jing left their table to deal with their unexpected visitor.


    "I think, it''s better to avoid Mr. Jonathan," Danny expressed. He also gave Sofia a gaze with the same wary expression.


    Sofia gently massaged the side of her head. "Hiding is not the best solution. There are less than 5 minutes left before we take in our customers. We don''t know if sister Jing can have a brief conversation with him."


    The kitchen suddenly felt silent for another split second. Even Claire gazed at Sofia with conflicting expressions.


    "How about we make him leave?" Claire suggested.


    "We should not! It can cause a bad luck if we do it during the first day of the business operation," Stephen quickly disagreed. "Every visitors must be entertained and accepted."


    "Ahh... I -- I did not know. S-sorry," Claire mumbled.


    Hearing Stephen''s words almost made Sofia raised her eyebrow. "I did not know about that too." In her heart, the only reason why she instructed Jing Jing to be friendly with Mr. Jonathan was because she never practiced having prejudices. Especially in business where every opportunity could bring her profits.


    "Miss Sofia, we will follow your arrangement," Derek muttered.


    "Ahmn... T-That man... maybe he won''t recognize the two of you?" Sofia suddenly guessed as if clinging to a small sliver of hope.


    In her mind, she thought that some business owners do not really remember the faces of every people they meet. Perhaps, there might be a possibility that the man could not remember Derek and Danny?


    However, Danny was quick to shook his head after listening to Sofia''s guess.


    "How I wish that he won''t recognize us. But, he had seen us so many times. And... w-with our reputation, I think he really had carved us in his memories," Derek stated.


    Indeed! Considering their unfavorable reputation, how could anyone in their district not recognize them?


    Sofia slowly closed her eyes. Her index finger continued tapping on the table as she give another consideration of their situation.


    Then, a small smile formed on her lips as she looked at them again. "With this matter, I think, our worries are not really necessary."


    "Miss?" Danny called. The lines on his forehead quickly appeared as confusion was evident on his face. They had been brainstorming on how to deal with their situation. Who would have expected that in the end, Sofia would tell them that they don''t need to worry about it?!


    "It''s risky. But not today," Sofia stated.


    "Miss Sofia, what does it mean?" Derek questioned. All the Chronos members were also puzzled by her response.


    "We don''t need any adjustment with our previous arrangements. Derek, the front desk is still your responsibility. Danny, you facilitate this kitchen. Today, Clark and Claire will temporarily help you with the food serving. Joey and Stephen will be on the plates and utensils. Sister Jing and I will help clean the tables and monitor the food. As for that man outside, it''s fine if he recognizes the two of you," Sofia answered calmly.


    Clark took a sharp breath and looked more anxious. "B-but Sof, if that man would recognize the two brothers, he will feel betrayed. If he will confront them, our customers will be disturbed! What if no one will come back and dine here again?"


    "Sof, are you sure that they don''t need to hide here?" Stephen also whispered on the side.


    "Clark, what you said, I was also having the same thought of that. But, that is not the risk. When I said that it''s risky but not today, what I mean is... we will take the risks of not changing our arrangement. As for the man, he won''t make trouble today. Maybe in the next few days, he will bring trouble. And that is the risk that we would need to face. Let''s just focus on what we can do today," Sofia explained.


    "What if he will directly confront us today, Miss Sofia?" Derek questioned.


    "No, he won''t. If Mr. Jonathan sees you working here, even if he wants to make trouble today, he can''t. Since he employed you for dirty works, he should be aware that his name would be implicated if he makes a scene. Don''t think of problems right now. It''s about time that we let our first customers in. Danny, facilitate the food and refill our serving plates if necessary. Customers can eat as many as they can in one hour. So, we need to be alert," Sofia commanded and dismissed them.


    They quickly dispersed around and moved towards their assigned posts.


    Not long after, one of the staff opened the entrance and greeted the customers. Sofia could hear the cheerful voice from the door.


    "Welcome! Please fall in line and proceed to the front desk to verify your reservation!"


    Derek hastily went to the front desk with another staff going to the cashier area. The two of them stood side by side and smiled at the customers.


    Their customers were very diverse. Some wore casual clothes while others were wearing office uniforms.


    Sofia observed them on the side and then scanned the area to look for Jing Jing and Mr. Jonathan. However, she had not seen any of them.


    "Welcome! Please provide the confirmation text of your reservation," Derek formally said.


    The first customer quickly pulled out her phone from her shoulder bag and searched the confirmation message in her inbox. She casually have her phone to Derek.


    This customer seemed to not recognize Derek''s identity at all. Or perhaps, she was too busy glancing at the tray of food that she did not pay too much attention to the person at the front desk.


    Initially, Derek appeared to be very conscious. His hand was even sweating. But, seeing that the woman was not looking at him, he accepted the phone and examined the message. "You reserved a table for four people, please pay this amount to the cashier, and our staff will guide you to your table," Derek stated and handed the phone back to the owner with a piece of order receipt.


    "Thank you!" the woman instantly moved her feet.


    After approaching the front desk, she eagerly went to the cashier and handed her order receipt and the payment.


    The cashier was also quick to count her money and gave her a payment receipt. Then, another staff approached the woman and guided her to her table, "This way, ma''am. Everything is on the side. You may pick as much food as you want, but please don''t be wasteful. As agreed in the reservation, I will remind you that your payment will be doubled for wasteful customers as a penalty."


    "Yes, I''m aware! Thanks, I''ll go get my food," the customer stated.


    The arrangement was very easy. A large portion of food was already placed on the serving table for the customers to pick.


    Customers would just need to grab a plate and go to the serving table to choose their dishes.


    But, to avoid wasting food, just in case the customers would not finish their dishes, Sofia also allocated staff in the area. The staff was assigned to assist the customers to put food on their plates for whatever dishes they wished to eat.


    Clark and Claire would be temporarily assisting the staff at the serving table. Of course, for the Chronos members, they really don''t need to move. They had employed enough staff to cater to their customers.


    But, Sofia insisted that they must assist all workloads in their business today. This way, they would be familiar with the operation of their business. And they would also be able to relate how hard the job of their employees do.


    To Sofia, if her members would not understand these things, they may just take for granted the effort of their employees. It was more than just awareness. She believed that only when her members learn and have a personal experience of the overall operation in their business, they would become effective employers to all their employees.


    When the first customer approached Claire, she politely gave her the food she kept on pointing.


    ''Wow! She can finish all of it?'' Claire secretly asked in her mind after watching the woman that had just sat at the table. Claire continued to watch as the woman did not waste time and started swallowing her food as if she so starved.


    Clark suddenly tapped Claire in her arm. He then reluctantly whispered, "Hmm... Don''t stare. It''s rude."


    "Ahh... yeah, yeah," Claire trailed and finally switched her line of vision towards the other direction. Coincidentally, she saw Sofia at the other corner.


    Sofia made eye contact with Claire and they both exchanged a small smile. In fact, Sofia was also staring at the first customer for a few seconds and was amazed by her manner of eating.


    ''She did not even wait for her companions?'' Sofia mentally asked.. The woman ordered a table for four people. But, she started eating even though the other three seats were not yet occupied!

 Chapter 299 - Soft Opening Day (17)

    After some time, the entire table was finally occupied with the corresponding customers that had reserved the first hour of their operation. These customers focused on eating their food, and only a few groups were having a casual conversation.


    Danny refilled the serving dishes twice and sneaked his way to walk towards Sofia. He took a glance at each table on his way and looked astonished by how fast the customers had consumed their food!


    "Miss Sofia, our customers eat like they have starved themselves for a week! I''ve refilled dishes twice, and this is just the first hour! I have instructed the cooks to prepare for another round of cooking, just in case all the food that we prepared earlier won''t be enough for today," he reported in a low volume. He did not also bother to hide the concerned expression on his face.


    "It''s okay, Danny. This is one of the objectives why we have chosen this business and picked this location," Sofia replied with a gentle gaze to their customers. Even though the people were eating enthusiastically and consumed more than the normal meal of a person, she was actually delighted by the scene.


    "I''m just worried. If all our customers consume like them... the business may not profit today?" Danny sighed and shook his head.


    "That''s not how it works in business. If we think of it from the perspective of the ripple effect, it''s really profitable," Sofia simply replied.


    "B-but how? They are eating too much," Danny complained.


    "Hahaha, why are you so uneasy about not being able to profit today? Don''t worry, the agreed salary for all the staff here will be provided in full with no less than a cent," Sofia chuckled. Her tone was playful to make him feel at ease but Danny was not feel relieved at all.


    "Hmmn, that''s not what I mean. Miss Sofia, I just felt uncomfortable thinking of the amount that they are eating," Danny admitted uncomfortably.


    "Here is how I think of it, okay... We should not be frightened of having a lot of consumers. What''s terrifying and fatal to us is when there are no more consumers paying attention to our business," Sofia stated and look at the man in the face. Then, she continued to explain, "With many consumers that we have, we will also need to buy plenty of local products. Then, the demand for these ingredients would definitely rise."


    Sofia paused for a moment and took a glance at the entrance door to check if Jing Jing was already there. She had long wondered where Mr. Jonathan and Jing Jing had their discussion. And what took Jing Jing so long to return when she suggested to her to just have a brief conversation. Somehow, she felt worried for her more than the idea of profiting.


    "Miss Sofia, based on my observation, even if the demand would rise, its cost might also follow? It''s not beneficial to use either, right?" Danny questioned once more after noticing that Sofia had stopped talking.


    "No, it''s beneficial! Once the demand for local products becomes high because of us, we are indirectly helping the local farmers who are dependent on selling vegetables and livestock to feed their families.  And the same goes for the local fishermen peddling seafood products. In addition to it, we are promoting local foods which will soon boost our food culture. The young generation will learn to appreciate it. It''s extremely beneficial to our district." Sofia explained.


    Danny listened attentively on the side, "So, the reason of your business is to help? Are you operating for charity more than profit?"


    "Hahaha, it''s for earning a profit, of course! But the reason why we should operate a business must not just mainly for personal gains. We also have to help uplift the image of our district. You might wonder what''s the connection of our district''s image to our business, right? Hehe," Sofia giggled.


    Danny only nodded his head as affirmation and did not speak a response.


    "Because this place is where we start our progress. As long as the image of our district is great, it will easily attract investors. Then, with the right investors, we can expand our business. And after expanding our business, we will earn more profit! Right now, we just have to take one step at a time to achieve this goal. As long as there is proper circulation of our money, we won''t incur losses. Just think of it this way... to be on the top of the corporate world, we must have a wide objective. Only when our impact to the community is big, we will have large profits!" Sofia finished.


    "Ohh..." Danny trailed, feeling a little bit embarrassed of his initial concern. He was just focusing on their profit today. But, the young lady was actually looking at the entire impact of their business operation!


    Sofia also sensed that the man felt ashamed. She raised her hand and tapped his shoulder. "Danny, we are lucky that we have a sincere employee like you who cares for our profit and not just go here and work to get a salary. This attitude is valuable to us. With your character, I''m confident that we will achieve our goals in no time. Thank you!"


    Danny could not help but feel emotional by what Sofia had said. He lowered his gaze and clasped both his hands in his back. "Miss Sofia, you have greatly expanded my understanding of operating a business. Having crossed your path and work for you is probably the greatest fortune that my Double Sigma fraternity would ever receive. Now, I completely understand!"


    Sofia took a deep breath and smiled at him. "The first time sister Jing and I wander around this place, I''ve realized the lack of local food business. Although there are other restaurants in the district, those establishments offered mostly expensive foreign dishes. Not all citizens could afford it. Even if they can afford it, they cannot eat to its content. Our objective is to serve quality and affordable food."


    At the back of her head, she could not help but also think of her level of influence in someone''s life before she died. ''Did I have a meaningful impact on someone''s existence while leading the Summers Holdings?''


    Perhaps, there was. She was not certain of how meaningful her influence was to them though. The only thing she was sure of was that, in her past life, no one had ever expressed such sincere care of gaining or losing profit as Danny had shown to her. Not even her family.


    She had carried the burden of people''s expectation that whatever decision she made would always lead to profit. Recalling such a situation, Sofia could only sigh and realized that her influence on the people around her during her past life had never reached a personal level. It was because she was surrounded by experts.


    Her conversation with Danny felt very refreshing to her.


    "Miss Sofia, I will go back to the kitchen," Danny excused himself.


    "Okay," Sofia mumbled.


    Minutes had turned into hours, the business operation went smoothly. Fortunately, all customers that they had served were well-behaved.


    Sofia secretly observed the entire movement of customers and staff inside and smiled in contentment.


    She could tell that everyone in them was putting all their best effort into the responsibility that was assigned to them. Sofia checked her watch and saw that it was almost 11 AM. The customers for this time were already outside, waiting for the 10 AM reservation to finish.


    At the same time, there were specifically four other hashtags that started to become the topic of the netizens in social media. It was not yet on the top trending topic but it had attracted a lot of views too.


    #UnlimittedFood #WorthItCost #LocalDishIsTheBest #LocalDineDistrict7IntersectionStreet


    Along with those hashtags were mostly pictures of plates full of food and a group photo grinning in the camera. They snapped a photo before eating their meals. Some took a selfie at the serving table area before they picked their food. Others even bragged about the before and after situation of their tables after their hour of eating!


    Obviously, those were the individuals who were able to eat during the 9 AM and 10 AM. They have tagged their companions and their companions also shared their posts.


    Meanwhile, those people that reserved the 11 PM could only join the trend by taking a picture outside the establishment.


    In this situation, when it comes to business advertising, Sofia did not need to pay anything for the promotion of her business. Her customers had done it for them!


    Jing Jing''s figure suddenly emerged from the entrance and marched towards Sofia.


    "Sister Jing, how was your conversation with Mr. Jonathan?" Sofia quickly asked the lady.


    "Ah... about him... he had left a long time ago. Our conversation was really brief and we just talked outside. It was a casual introduction and exchange of ''hi'' and ''hello'' only.. Hehe, I stayed in my car, answering calls for table reservations!" Jing Jing responded with full of excitement on her face. "This is crazy! Miss Sofia, you won''t believe this but, we are fully booked for the entire day next week! I don''t know what sorcery had happened that all those people suddenly texted me and asked me to book them for whatever is our available schedule!"

 Chapter 300 - Soft Opening Day (18)

    Upon listening to Jing Jing''s report, Sofia was slightly surprised too. Although she already thought that their previous press announcement would surely attract many customers, she did not expect that there were still many who would book table reservation.


    "I''m very happy when I saw our schedule for next week was all booked! Ms. Sofia, in fact, my phone is still ringing a while ago. But, I thought, I would first give the data of the entire week reservation list that I made to Derek. Just in case I would accidentally lose or delete it!" Jing Jing continued her chatter.


    Sofia smiled at her and could not help but wonder how it happened too? For a while, she made a theory, ''Perhaps, Brent and Grace were secretly helping her to gain more customers? Or it could be their mayor?''


    However, her theories seemed to not feel right. Even if her other friends would get involved, it won''t be that many as what Jing Jing reported.


    After a few more seconds, another idea came to Sofia''s mind. If there was one thing that could boost promotion, whether it is business or entertainment issues, only the internet could do it!


    "I really wonder what sorcery had managed to attract those customers! But, I don''t care at all. As long as it gives us profit, it''s fine! Hahaha," Jing Jing clapped her hand.


    "Sister Jing, if the surge of the customer reservation is that overwhelming, it must be from the internet? Let me check, " Sofia mumbled and took out her phone.


    "Ohh... that makes sense. But who is promoting us? We did not pay any ads from them," Jing Jing looked baffled. She also realized that only on the internet could make promotions explode in just a matter of seconds.


    The two of them quickly opened their social media accounts.


    On Sofia''s side, there was no need for her to check her hundreds of unread notifications. The screen of her phone had already shown her the photo of their establishment.


    Since it was her account that also shared the information of their business, it was natural that the netizens had tagged and mentioned her countless times.


    Jing Jing also examined the trending topic. At that time, the four hashtags related to their business had finally made their way to the top 10 trending discussions.


    After a closer look, all the top 10 topics were actually pointed to the teens!


    The only difference was that the top 1, top 3 to top 5 hashtags were about the speculations of the regional tournament with their involvement of the DAO representatives.


    Netizens demanded the Chronos squad''s official responsible for the issue. The other fans have condemned their bashers. It was like a battle between bashers and fans.


    Then, the top 6 was about the Chronos squad''s involvement in press company incidents outside their school gate. Most discussions were fueled by their schoolmates, classmates, against trolls.


    Such trolls were actually hired by the press company to stain the image of Sofia and her team.


    But, unbeknownst to those people who hired trolls, they were just helping the Chronos squad to maintain them in the trending discussions too!


    Lastly, the top 7 to top 10, it was exactly the four hashtags about their business!


    Amongst these trending topics, only the top 2 hashtag was slightly different. It was #BestWishes! The discussions were about the speculation and congratulatory posts for the young master of the Lee family''s marriage.


    But still, the Chronos squad were actually indirectly involved in it too!


    "Miss Sofia, you are trending!" Jing Jing could not help but feel astonished.


    Because if she would think of the person behind the top 10 trending topics, only one image appeared in her mind.


    And this was the first time that the trending topics of the netizens were all centered on one person. Even if the discussion was about the group, Jing Jing still understood that the bottom line of it was Sofia. ''How incredible!''


    "Thanks to our customers. They are attracting others to come into our establishment," Sofia simply curled her lips into a smile and continued scrolling several posts for a few more seconds before she put back her phone inside her pocket.


    "Ahh--- customers? Hmm... I see!" Jing Jing mumbled. For a minute, she was distracted by the trending topics that she had forgotten why they were checking their social media accounts! Only when Sofia expressed her gratitude towards the posts of their business did she remember the topic of their discussion. They were supposed to verify the reason why she received so many table reservation calls!


    "With their posts reaching to people from other places, sister Jing, you''ll be tending with many callers today!" Sofia expressed.


    "Yes! Hahaha... No wonder, after a few minutes of talking with Mr. Jonathan, there were endless phone calls that started to barge on my phone! I had to make the list of reservations on my notepad app just to make sure that I don''t duplicate tables," Jing Jing exhaled and closed her social media app. Then, she switched it to her notepad and moved her hand towards Sofia to show her the list.


    "Sister Jing, let''s swap our phones for the meantime. Let me handle the next customers for a bit," Sofia offered. She also understood how exhausting it would be to deal with different people simultaneously. And since Jing Jing had been away for more than two hours, she must be tired of answering the phone calls. Two hours and a reservation for the entire next week. Such matter was not a joke!


    But before Sofia could give her phone to switch it, Jing Jing already raised her hand. A simple gesture to stop Sofia''s movement and she also thoughtfully shook her head simultaneously.


    "O-ohh, no, no, no, it''s fine. Miss Sofia, I can handle all the calls for reservations today. I''m used to talking for long hours. You don''t need to trouble yourself," Jing Jing said which also reminded Sofia that with Jing Jing''s previous job at the press business, answering talking was not exhausting work for her.


    "Mmn..." Sofia hummed her response and look around to see the situation of her members.


    Jing Jing noticed Sofia''s line of vision and realized that the young teen was staring towards Clark and Claire in the area of their serving table.


    Jing Jing quickly made a suggestion. "You teenagers should take it easy today since you are not used to this work. It had been more than 2 hours now since you are standing here and those two looked exhausted too. All of you should take a rest. Look at Clark over there, poor boy, he is slouching. He can''t slouch later during your endorsement appointment! All of you must maintain a proper posture!"


    Sofia brushed the side of her hair and tucked some hair strands at the back of her ear. She also felt the same was as what Jing Jing said. And even she felt her feet and knees getting numb from clearing tables and wandering all over the place.


    She took a deep breath and spoke. "Yes. I think we need to head out early for the endorsement."


    "Head out early?" Jing Jing asked. "That''s also favorable. Just in case there are some delays in the street. Miss Sofia, I will pack you food for your lunch?"


    "No need, sister Jing. We can handle it," Sofia chuckled. Jing Jing''s willingness to give her the extra mile always made her feel so fortunate. Meeting the lady after her transmigration could be considered as heaven''s blessing to her.


    "The van ride would be more comfortable than my car. Earlier, I''ve spoken with Clark''s driver outside and he already knows your route. I will stay here and take over the place while you are still doing your appointment," Jing Jing informed their arrangement.


    "Okay. Thank you, sister Jing!"Sofia said and started to walk away. However, after a few steps, she suddenly remembered another important matter that they had been worried about earlier. "Mr. Jonathan... about him... he did not recognize any of our employees, right?"


    "Fortunately, he didn''t. But, he asked for a reservation. I scheduled him for dinner on Tuesday next week at 7 PM. If it''s not convenient for Derek, I can handle the front desk at that time," Jing Jing easily replied.


    "Tuesday... mmm," Sofia paused and give Jing Jing a thumbs-up. "Preventing troubles is more advantageous than solving it. If we can prevent him from recognizing the Double Sigma fraternity, then it would be great.  But, sooner or later, he will still know them. So, we must also think of a countermeasure for this matter.


    "I don''t think he can create big trouble here. After all, he also have his malicious actions in the past," Jing Jing stated.


    "Let''s not underestimate him too. But, right now, he is the least of our worry. It''s better if we just focus on our operation," Sofia sighed and glanced at their entrance area once more. Customers outside their establishment had started to increase.. A good indication that it would be a really long day for their business.

 Chapter 301 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (1)

    After Jing Jing and Sofia''s brief discussion about Mr. Jonathan, they went in a separate direction.


    Jing Jing proceed to approach the front desk area and went to Derek. She noticed that was looking on his computer, fully immersed in what he was doing. Slowly, she leaned closer to his desk and secretly looked at the monitor. She saw that he was sorting out the names in the list of their customers that day.


    "Derek, how are you? Is it tiring to check the list?" Jing Jing casually asked the man.


    Hearing Jing Jing''s query, Derek quickly looked up and gave her a friendly nod. "Ms. Jing JIng! It''s great. Hehe... Thank you for asking. I am just looking at the names in the list of this reservation because I am making a separate note. I don''t want to make a mistake in the first day of my job, " he politely responded.


    "I did see what you are doing. Hehe, keep up the good work! Anyway, are you done making separate note? Or are you still busy?" Jing Jing followed and pointed to the computer since the man was looking at the monitor when she approached him.


    Derek''s job was not much of a physically exhausting responsibility.  He would just sit and only need to inspect the customers to make sure that they really booked the table reservation.


    After the customers were settled on their tables, his obligation should be done. He had nothing else to do other than observe the dining area and help check the movements of their customers.


    "No, I''m not busy. I was just double-checking the names in the reservation list for today and making notes. But, I can finish it later. Do you have instructions, Ms. Jing Jing?" he politely inquired.


    "Yes, I have here the list for the next week''s reservation," Jing Jing answered and showed him the file."


    "Woah... fully-booked tables next week?! Cool!" Derek was also amazed after reading the file.


    "It''s not just a long day... it will be a long week," Jing Jing playfully said and gave her phone to Derek. The man quickly transferred the file to the pc and returned Jing Jing''s phone in no time!


    "I will inform my brothers later," Derek stated referring to the entire Double Sigma fraternity members.


    "Be sure to put proper shifting schedule of your brothers. Just in case some of them would complain and talk bad about the management here... I will really hunt you down and demand your explanation," Jing Jing emphasized in a playful tone. It was Sofia''s order to her. To make sure that their staff won''t feel burn-out, they have to be mindful of shifting schedules.


    Although Jing Jing was the standing manager of their business, she had given the two fraternity leaders the freedom to make the decision of the arrangement when it comes to their members. The shifting schedule of the staff, as well as allocating their responsibilities, Derek and Danny could freely decide on it without asking for any approval from Sofia.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, you are joking... my members, our brotherhood is extremely solid. I won''t make arrangements that would put them in disadvantage," Derek slightly laughed. Then, he made a gesture of salute by putting his hand at the center of his chest before he continued. "Rest assured, I will handle and take care of my member''s welfare properly, Ms. Jing Jing. I will make sure that Miss Sofia won''t be disappointed by the Double Sigma fraternity!"


    Jing Jing gently smiled at his sincere expression. She just nodded her head and gave him the file before walking in the direction of Sofia.


    At that time, Sofia was having a conversation with Danny...


    "Miss Sofia, are you ready to go?" Jing Jing asked and gave Danny a glance. She could tell that Sofia''s conversation seemed to have reached an end.


    Sofia nodded her head and responded to Jing Jing, "Yes. I''m just giving Danny a reminder. Sister Jing, if our food on the serving dishes is not enough, please assist Danny to buy more ingredients to cook extra. Later on, we will just calculate everything."


    "Certainly! Miss Sofia, I have another concern... b-but I''m not sure if it''s appropriate to ask," Jing Jing calmly responded.


    Sensing Jing Jing''s reluctance, Sofia''s soft giggle that turned into a laughter followed. "Hahaha, sister Jing, what is it? Just say it."


    "Please don''t be offended, Miss Sofia. I just want to ask if you want to bring cash? I will tell the cashier to prepare money?" Jing Jing inquired. Aside from being the manager, Sofia had also entrusted her with the business money.


    "Hmmn... I don''t think we need to spend money on the endorsement activity, sister Jing. We will just take pictures... and then go back here," Sofia giggled.


    Not bringing money! This kind of attitude was actually something that she had practiced in her last life. Because her Summer''s family was just excessively wealthy, people in district 2 would feel very honored to give her favors to build a connection with her. Thus, wherever she go, money was part of her shadow and it voluntarily followed her direction. It was undeniably a very successful life that was cut short.


    But with her new life, the logic of their situation was naturally not the same. The reason why she refused to bring cash was to make sure that the money that they earned would also be used to support the growth of their business alone. Not just to be spent on a different purpose.


    "I''ve never entered the Jones Studio. But, since the management of the shoe brand had made its arrangement there, there may be small fees that the squad needs to pay?" Jing Jing reasoned. Unlike Sofia, she completely felt worried about the bizarre personality of Sofia not bringing cash. She was used to bringing more than enough money in her wallet all the time!


    "Since they made the arrangement, such fees are also paid by them. Sister Jing, we will be fine," Sofia smiled at Jing Jing with a reassuring gaze. Then, she faced her members who stood on her side and asked them, "Do you guys think we will need to bring cash?"


    "No need, Sof!" Joey quickly answered, unwilling to spend the first money that they earned.


    "We have packed our lunch, and we also ate plenty of food during breakfast, we will be fine. Hehe, it''s better to save our money!" Claire supported too.


    As for Clark and Stephen, they just nodded their heads and did not speak a word. Clark has personal money while Stephen is not really much concerned about bringing cash. He was reliant on his bank cards for most of the time.


    "Then, let''s go! We will arrive at the studio earlier than our schedule so that we can take a rest and won''t be late. See you later, sister Jing... Danny," Sofia muttered. She exchange one final glance at Jing Jing and Danny before she turned around and went towards the exit area. Her members simply trailed behind her.


    The group hastily made their way from the crowd of people outside their establishment towards Clark''s van. Before they boarded the vehicle, their eyes widened in shock at the scene on the side of the road.


    There was a long line of cars parking from both sides!


    Sofia subconsciously scratch her head and felt astounded by the sight. "Are these cars owned by our customers?" she mumbled a question in a tone full of disbelief.


    "I guess?" Clark said while staring at the cars too. "Who would have thought that the most feared location in district 7 will become the parking space! If it was from before, no one would dare leave their cars unattended to avoid potential damages."


    "Wow.... I did not know that things would be like this here," Sofia gulped. Never in her imagination, she had seen people living their cars on the side of the road. Such was also her lapses as she had not anticipated that their customers would drive their own cars!


    The district 7 was not yet a fully developed place. And based on her observation, except for the public utility vehicles, the highway almost looked deserted.


    But now, seeing the long line of cars, she could not help but ask, "Just how did citizens in this district have this many cars and not drive around?"


    Luckily, even if there were many cars parked on both sides of the road, there are fewer cars traveling the intersection street. Thus, the scene did not cause traffic. If their place was like a developed city, those car owners would have been ticketed for illegal parking! Some of their cars were probably towed too!


    "In our next business project, let''s purchase the land at the back and that side and convert some portion of it as parking space," Sofia immediately pointed to the area that she wished to buy. "This kind of parking on the side of the road is a clear obstruction of traffic! We might get in trouble for this!" Sofia asserted and entered the van.


    Not long after, they were going towards the northern downtown area of the district.. Inside the van, the group had closed their eyes and were fallen asleep.

 Chapter 302 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (2)

    "Young master Clark, we have arrived at the Jones Studio," the driver announced in a low voice. He slowly turned around and saw Clark responding with a slight nod of his head. He did not look surprised at the sight of his young master holding the sleeping Claire in a hug.


    When the driver shifted his attention to the others, he could not help but smile at their peaceful sight. Sofia was leaning on Stephen''s shoulder and the two were also napping. Joey covered his face with his hand and curled his body at the corner of the car. He was obviously sleeping too.


    Only Clark was awake. He glanced at his limited sports watch and noticed that it was just 11:24 AM. He looked on the side window of the van and checked for any traffic signs to see the location was a no parking area. When he did not say any no parking sign, he felt satisfied.


    "Let''s stay here for a while, uncle," Clark told his driver and decided not to disturb the rest of his companions. There is still a lot of time for them to rest.


    "Okay, young master," the driver muttered and quickly twisted the ignition key to turn off the engine of the van. Just a few meters away from them, the three-story building with a large billboard on it could be seen. It was the Jones Studio.


    The Jones Studio was located just in the upper area of the downtown. It was situated along Fue Avenue, which was the most digitalized street in district 7. This was the only street where citizens could see billboards and ads on most buildings.


    When it comes to the reputation of the place, the Fue Ave could be considered to have the opposite of the intersection street where Sofia''s business was located.


    If the intersection Street was the home of the fraternity and gang fights, the Fue Ave was the most secured street. Every now and then, a police car would patrol in this area to ensure the safety of the people.


    Speaking of people, most personalities in this street were local celebrities and models. And the buildings along the road were various network talent agencies and studious.


    Clark was about to close his eyes and also take a rest when out of a sudden, there was one of the security personnel knocking on the driver''s window.


    The driver''s hand quickly pressed the inner button in the car door and let the window slightly roll down. He stopped when it was half-open.


    "Which media celebrity?" the person inquired in a formal tone.


    His voice caused everyone to open their eyes and look at him.


    "We have arrived?" Claire whispered and snuggled closer at Clark.


    "Yeah," Clark gently replied.


    Meanwhile, Sofia quickly opened her phone and scanned her messages. Then, she stopped at the certain picture that boss Wang sent to her. It was the confirmation of their endorsement shooting.


    "We are here for an appointment. Here is the schedule," Sofia told the man and extended her hand for him to see the message on her phone.


    "Okay. Does your group want to go inside? The management of Jones Studio doesn''t allow vehicles to park in front of the building. This van must move to the other side to park," the man politely informed them.


    Sofia stared at the man and closely observed his countenance. His tone sounded professional, however, she could sense that there was something off in his expression. His lips would curl into a somewhat ominous smile and there was a glimmer of deceit flashed in his eyes.


    She thought for a few seconds before she responded, "My group will go inside."


    The man nodded his head and started walking towards the building. Sofia''s eyes followed his figure until he turned to the left and disappeared.


    She yawned and spoke, "That nap felt so good!"


    Consequently, the others also yawned. "Yeah!!!"


    "It''s because you slept on Stephen''s shoulder?" Joey poked the other shoulder of Stephen and teased him. However, Stephen only slapped him and give him a challenging glare.


    "Joey ahh... just bring your girl next time. No need to use such subtle statements with double meaning," Sofia sat straight. She assumed that Joey''s words probably meant that he felt left out of their group because of not having a partner.


    Sofia''s statement earned a burst of playful laughter from the others except for Joey who was pouting and felt dejected.


    "We should go inside. Uncle, no need to wait for us in the parking lot. We will contact you after we are done here. If you have personal errands, just do it," Sofia simply said.


    "Ahh...?!" The driver was slightly taken aback. He did not expect Sofia''s suggestion at all. He quickly gazed at Clark to seek his confirmation.


    Clark smiled and nodded his head. "Mmn. Uncle, this may take longer. I will give you a call later."


    "Thank you, young master! Thank you, Miss Sofia!" the driver expressed and hopped out of his seat. Then, he sprinted on the side of Clark and opened his door.


    Not long after, the group made their way towards the Jones Studio building. They were all using their hands to shield their faces against the burning sunshine.


    When they reached the entrance, there was a group of three females who were talking to the guard. As they overheard their conversation Sofia could not help but raise her eyebrow.


    "Why do we need to pay 20$ for the entrance fee? That is ridiculous!" one of the females exclaimed in annoyance.


    "There is really an entrance fee here! What do you think of our studio? A place that you can freely enter in and out? Bah! If you don''t want to pay, then scram!" the guard responded in an intimidating tone.


    The group looked at one another before dramatically opening their bags. One of them even snapped the zipper of her bag open and purposely made a harsh sound, showing her unwillingness to pay.


    Then, they counted their money and paid the entrance fee with much reluctance shown on their faces.


    "If I become a celebrity, I will definitely come back at you and take revenge for this humiliation!" the female said and almost throw the money at the guard''s face. "I will remember you!"


    "Bah! Pass the audition first before acting arrogant in front of me!" the guard snickered before he move to the side and let the group enter.


    Claire tugged Sofia''s hand and worriedly whispered to her, "Sof, there is an entrance fee?"


    "It''s probably for that audition. We are not going there so we should be fine," Sofia said.


    The security guard looked at Sofia and her group from head to foot before calling them, "Next! 20$ each to pay the entrance fee. Total... 100$!"


    The guard extended his palm and gave them an expectant look. The kind of gaze that meant he expected the teens to comply with his demand easily.


    However, Sofia could only curl her lips into a small smile. This smile did not even reach in her eyes.


    "We have an appointment," Sofia said and showed the confirmation of their appointment on her phone.


    She thought that it was enough for them to enter the place. But, to her dismay, the guard did not even look at the phone. His eyes remained at Sofia with the same intimidating expression that he used from the previous females.


    "It doesn''t matter if you have an appointment or not. It is mandatory to pay the entrance fee," the guard stated.


    Clark stepped forward. He intended to pay the entrance fee. However, Sofia raised her hand to stop him.


    "This appointment is arranged by the shoe company that we are endorsing. They did not tell us to pay. So, this entrance fee should have been settled by them," Sofia simply said in a calm tone.


    Clark looked at Sofia''s reaction and realized that it was not just as simple as she did not bring money to pay for the entrance fee. It was but a matter of principles of professionalism!


    Since the other party made the arrangement to use the Jones Studio for their endorsement shooting, they should not be obliged to pay any fees as it was a business activity!


    If there were mandatory fees, they should have informed them ahead of time!


    "Miss, you are obviously not dressed for an audition. But, it does not look like your group has the face of becoming an endorser too!" the guard commented but he remained his hand extended and was still waiting for Sofia to hand down their payment.


    "Hahaha, do you know that extortion is a crime?" Sofia stared at the man in the eye. Her face turned serious that the way she laughed almost made the man feel goose bumps all over his body. "100$? This entrance fee is too expensive to be the real entrance fee too. Hehehe,"


    "What do you mean extortion? HAHAHA, I am not forcing you to give me that amount, young lady! In fact, I don''t need your money. I am just following the rules of this building!" the guard insisted. This time, he finally retracted his hand and crossed them on his chest. His expression did not seem to care about what Sofia had just said.. It was as if, the man is used to such a type of argument.

 Chapter 303 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (3)

    "What now?! You say it''s expensive?! It''s expensive? Well, let me tell you... this building is not like those simple entertainment firms.  This is the place where the brightest stars are born! Not any person could afford to come in and out here! Don''t waste my time, young lady! If you don''t have money... leave! Or else, I will call the police and tell them that you are purposely causing trouble for me!" the guard scolded them. His eyes sharply gazed at Sofia, as if giving her a warning that something bad would really happen if she won''t leave.


    ''The reputation of Jones Studio is actually that remarkable?'' Sofia pondered after hearing the guards claim that the place is where the stars are born. She never paid too much attention to the entertainment world during her past life and present life. But, she somehow understood the basics of how certain agencies train talents to enter the stardom of the entertainment industry.


    Sofia formed her lips into a thin line and remained silent for a while. She just stared at the guard with an undisturbed expression on her face. After a few seconds, she turned around and signaled her companions to move a few steps backward.


    After walking on the side, she slowly halted their movements, just a few steps away from the guard, and continued to observe.


    Another newcomer approached the guard and paid him money before entering the building. Then, a male group approached the guard too and the same procedure happened.


    "Sof, it seems that entrance fee is really necessary before we can enter," Claire mumbled and helplessly sighed while her hands were crossed on her chest.


    "I can pay the entrance fee, Sof. I don''t really mind," Clark stated discreetly. For some reason, he also felt that the guard wanted to humiliate them for not being able to pay the entrance fee. And he did not want his friend to experience such disgrace. "It''s kind of embarrassing if we stand here, Sof. Just let me pay for today," he added.


    "We are just standing here. There is no reason for us to feel ashamed, Clark. I''ll contact Cathy, one of the staff in the management of the shoe company. I''ll coordinate with her first. Let''s just wait for her reply," Sofia said while typing a message on her phone.


    "O-okay, Sof," Clark whispered and purposely lowered his gaze.


    After sending a text message, Sofia looked up and saw Clark''s unusual expression. Then, she suddenly recalled the strange expression she had noticed on the first person that approached them in the van.


    "Don''t feel down, Clark. Standing here is not embarrassing. But, I''m really confused. How could a guard of a recognized studio with a good reputation in the entertainment business in this district act so hostile to us? I thought he was tricking us to pay the entrance fee. But, now, he seemed confident of what he was doing," Sofia expressed and looked in the direction of the guard once more.


    The man had a bulky physique which helped him look really imposing. His physique could be the reason why the others never argued with him. And despite calling his action and mentioning extortion, the man''s attitude did not change even a bit. Thus, Sofia could tell that it may not be the case of trickery...


    But what was really the case? It was puzzling, but her intuition seemed to give her a hint. However, she seemed to have not reached another conclusion. Her mind was cloudy and she tried to think clearly of the other possibilities.


    Another minute passed and Sofia''s phone vibrated. She saw the notification message that the shoe company staff had replied to her message.


    She quickly opened the message. But after reading it, she could not help but from.


    The message told her to pay the entrance fee!


    "Hah! The staff of the shoe company actually wants us to pay 100$?! How unprofessional! They never mentioned this fee to me during our contract discussion!" Sofia notified her companions. She was about to press the call button on her screen to talk directly to the management. "It''s better to clear and sort things out in a direct conversation than in text message!" But, before she could press the call button, suddenly, an idea occurred to her.


    "Could it be that the owner of this shoe company and the owner of this building... Jones Studio... is the same?" Sofia mumbled.


    "Huh?" her companions asked in confusion.


    "I think it is! A careful strategy to gain income from the chain of businesses..." Sofia trailed and look at the other building around them.


    As she eyed her members, confusion was visible on their faces.


    "For example, I have two different kinds of businesses."


    Sofia raised her two hands as if it were the imaginary business. All her palms were wide open and remained suspended in the air. "My first business is a studio set," she moved her left hand.


    "...And the other is the videography/photography business," she moved her right hand.


    Her companions looked at her attentively as she continued to demonstrate...


    "As a photographer, I can initiate an arrangement in my studio with all my clients. Of course, for the convenience of those clients, they would mostly agree. But, the clients do not know that I also own the studio set. So, if I put an entrance payment when entering the studio, I can earn income from both businesses," Sofia finished and clenched both her palms as if both hands were holding the imaginary income.


    "Sof... you mean---?" Joey paused and felt conflicted about how Sofia explained her thoughts.


    "Is that legal?" Claire also expressed while staring at Sofia''s clenched palms.


    Sofia sighed and finally put down her hands on her side. "It is legal... as long as both businesses are registered. That''s one of the many strategies to double their source of income."


    "Then, we have no choice but to pay the entrance fee, Sof?" Clark questioned.


    "Ahhh... our group has no cash at the moment. There is no way we would pay... Hahaha," Sofia laughed loudly. Despite Clark''s willingness to pay, Sofia seemed to ignore the idea of him using personal his money.


    "If our business is stable, I don''t mind supporting this type of strategy. However, we just started our operation. We need to keep our money and focus on budgeting," Sofia added after her laughter subsided.


    At the distance, the guard was still standing and looked at Sofia''s group with a deep frown on his face. He started watching them when Sofia raised her hand until he saw Sofia laughing.


    "This foolish group... tsk!" he mumbled in anger. In his mind, he thought that Sofia was probably rehearsing while moving her hands. "Hey! You can''t stay in there! Here is not the right place for that performance! Since you have no money, just go home! Go!"


    Sofia looked at the guard and simply listened to him. She finally fixed her expression and walked closer to him. "Ahh... uncle, we really have an appointment. We cannot go home!"


    "I already told you that you need to pay. You can''t enter in this building without payment," the guard gritted his teeth in annoyance. He had silently prayed that the teens would just simply walk out and leave.


    "Uncle, you are right and you are also wrong," Sofia smiled. "You are right when you said that we have no money. We can''t pay this entrance fee. And we will not pay it too. You are wrong... because we will enter this building."


    The guard''s eyes widened. He opened his mouth and was about to scold Sofia when three figures emerged from the inside of the building.


    These figures belonged to Cathy, Chel, and Manager Lan. They were the people with whom Sofia had a discussion during the endorsement proposal.


    "Uncle, look behind you!" Sofia gestured for the man to look at his back.


    When he turned around and saw Manager Lan, his domineering expression quickly changed. He offered a customary bow to the lady and maintained his gaze lowered. The man kept his mouth shut. However, there were countless questions formed in his thoughts.


    Manager Lan waved her hand to them. Then, she looked at Sofia in the eyes with a serious expression on her face. "You must be Sofia? You are younger than what I have expected."


    "Manager Lan, it''s our pleasure to meet you in person.  I thought that only the two sisters will handle the endorsement shooting? I did not expect to see you here too." Sofia expressed and slightly bowed her head. Her friends quickly followed her gesture.


    "That can''t be right. Didn''t you send me a message and summoned me here?" Manager Lan stated.


    "Sorry to disturb your time... We have no choice, Manager Lan. We are just students. How could we afford to pay the entrance fee?" Sofia casually said.


    "Hmmn, you''ve made your point in your text message. Since you are already here, do you mind if we have a formal conversation in my office?" Manager Lan inquired and gazed at the other four members of the Chronos squad.


    "We are honored to be invited to your office, Manager Lan!" Sofia smiled.


    "Good! There would be a twenty minutes conference there with the advertisement department. Since you gave us the idea of Breaking the Comfort Zone... It''s also great if you would be there," Manager Lan said and gestured for them to follow her.


    With just one hand signal from the manager, Sofia and the rest of the Chronos squad members entered the building.. The guard rubbed his hands and released a sigh of relief. ''Fortunately, Manager Lan did not speak anything at me!''

 Chapter 304 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (4)

    On their way to the office, Sofia looked straight ahead of her as she maintained a good posture. Her eyes glimmered in translucence ambiance as she blinked slowly and took in the atmosphere of the Jones Studio. The movements of her legs were very sophisticated, just like how Manager Lan''s manner of walking.


    "Sofia, there is something that I am really curious about... how did you find out about my connection to this studio? Not many of the citizens know my connections..." Manager Lan spoke calmly. The alternating clacking sound of her black 3-inch heels followed to resonate around the place.


    Sofia offered a smile and glance at her. "Manager Lan, that information is public," she replied.


    The moment Sofia had her inkling suspicion about the business connection of the shoe company and the Jones Studio, she quickly searched the business owners'' information on the internet through her phone.


    All she had to do was type the names of the business and the results came flooding on her screen.


    And with Sofia''s past awareness about misleading information, it was too easy for her to know which site contained credible profiles of known businesses.


    It was indeed available for anyone who wants to know the details of the companies. Such information was always available to browse. When she read a few internet articles from reliable sources, she was certain that the two were indeed affiliated. Her suspicion was true.


    "P-Public? What do you mean?" Manager Lan subconsciously rubbed her chin and pondered what Sofia was talking about. There was never a media coverage that would imply the connection of her business.


    "Your shoe company and Jones Studio profiles are available on the internet. I''ve searched for it earlier... If only my group could afford the entrance fee, I won''t trouble you, manager Lan. It''s just that... our budget is tight for now," Sofia casually expressed.


    "The internet... I see," Manager Lan muttered in understanding after hearing Sofia''s answer to her query. But a deep frown suddenly appeared on her forehead when she reflected a few things about Sofia''s casual response. Even if the information was published on the internet, the two profiles were on separate websites! "Sofia, even if you searched the business profile of this studio, you can only read its information on a separate website," she directly pointed out.


    "That''s true. But, your business strategy is too obvious," Sofia whispered near manager Lan''s ear.


    The manager abruptly stopped walking and stared at Sofia. But, the young teen only moved ahead of her. ''Hah! Is it obvious? Since when did teenagers have curiosity about affiliated groups and business strategies?''


    She could not help but remember that when Sofia sent her a text message, the content was direct.


    It says,


    [ Manager Lan, since we have no prior discussion about the entrance fee in Jones Studio, my squad did not prepare or bring money for it. I have shown the confirmation of our appointment today. But, the guard refused to let my group in. Your employee also said that we must pay. I''m troubled... Fortunately, the heavens favored us and guide us to come to this location early. We can still discuss the arrangement before the schedule. Shall we continue this endorsement? If no one will pick my group here in five minutes, I''ll take it as we won''t be in cooperation anymore. ]


    Something about how Sofia had told manager Lan that she did not bring or prepare their money made her immediately meet them at the entrance door.


    Such keywords in Sofia''s text message sparked a new level of interest in knowing the teen more! It was not about having no money for the entrance fee. It was just that they did not prepare the payment. It was very rare to encounter such a way of reasoning and decisiveness.


    On the other hand, Sofia never thought that this manager Lan was in the same building when she texted her! It was because, as she browsed the internet, it revealed the site of the shoe company. The establishment was located in the uptown area of district 7. Naturally, she assumed that she would be present at that site.


    "Ehem!" Manager Lan picked her pace and laughed blandly. "I''m not sure if my strategy is really obvious? But, to clear things up, the entrance fee was not because of extortion. It was implemented out of convenience. Because there were many people flocking in our building for audition opportunities, they would mostly disrupt our artists shooting. We thought of this strategy to minimize people coming here," Manager Lan explained.


    Sofia nodded her head and secretly praised the manager for her cleverness. Now, she finally understood the attitude and expressions that she had witnessed on her employees outside. There was no doubt, those employees she had met were probably anticipating a show once they approached the entrance. Perhaps, seeing an argument there became their daily amusements?


    "Disruptive visitors are indeed hard to deal with," Sofia spoke in a low tone. She could not relate to manager Lan''s situation since her past life as CEO was pretty much peaceful.


    But, she was aware that the business in the entertainment world and corporate world have obvious distinctions.


    Those people who prefer to gamble in the corporate world, with proper skills, anyone could earn huge finances without having to chase fame and glory. It was even most common to see wealthy people staying low-key. Most individuals who play behind the scenes were in fact the wealthiest.


    However, in the entertainment world, not only skills but fame and glory are also required to guarantee huge money. Being surrounded by a large crowd is what makes someone strive to maintain their profit. Thus, most of them were required to show off their advantageous assets to the public.


    Then, there is a much more complex business that Sofia had just discovered in her present life... the gaming world. If it was her in the past and someone would tell her that there is real money to earn just by playing on mobile phones, she would probably laugh and felt that it was ridiculous.


    Sofia shook her head and cleared her thoughts.


    "Eh, you mentioned about tight budget...? As far as I know, your salary for this endorsement is actually high. How come your group will be on a tight budget?" Manager Lan inquired.


    "It''s... Hmmn... Matter of financial responsibilities," Sofia simply replied.


    "And what could teenagers such as your group own... to be able to acquire serious financial responsibilities? I don''t think there is," Manager Lan continued.


    "Manager Lan, the answer is simple... we teenagers have future plans. The five of us require seriously huge funds," Sofia chuckled and let the lady take the lead as they turned to the right corner.


    Just in the entrance lobby of Jones Studio, after turning to the right corner, the beautiful and handsome faces of the studio''s artists were all framed on the wall. Then, there was an organizational chart of their productions.


    But this kind of arrangement did not catch Sofia''s interest. However, Claire and Joey could not help but stare at the framed photos on the walls.


    "Bro, are you choosing a girlfriend?" Stephen whispered at Joey after noticing that he had been staring in most pictures as if scrutinizing every face there.


    Hearing Stephen''s teasing tone, Joey rolled his eyes and shrugged. "If I can attract one of them, it would be a miracle! These girls are very famous! A student like me is not worthy,"


    "Ohh? I did not know that there would be a day when your self-esteem is so low and would reach rock-bottom! You don''t believe that your appearance could snatch one of the beauties on the wall, Joey?" Clark joined in. In his mind, Joey had actually the perfect image to attract girls.


    Joey pouted and childishly pointed at Claire. "You have time to tease me too, Clark? Hehe... Look at your girlfriend, she is choosing a new one! Sooner, she might replace you while you are busy making fun of my delicate ego!"


    Upon hearing Joey''s words, Claire quickly smacked his shoulder. "I''m not looking for a boyfriend. He is already beside me. What  nonsense are you talking!"


    "Hahaha, I''m just joking, Claire!" Joey sneered while grinning from ear to ear.


    While Manager Lan and Sofia continued to walk, these four had fallen from behind. They were about five steps away under the direction of manager Lan. Only Sofia had maintained a close distance from the lady but her friends were all far!


    Minutes have gone by and Sofia sensed that there was no one walking behind her anymore. She turned around and raised an eyebrow at them. The group quickly sprinted.


    "It''s good that your group is preparing for all your future. What are the courses that you would take in college?" Manager Lan spoke once more.


    Before her companions could rejoin them, Sofia casually replied, "Right now, the five of us are just saving money. The courses to study in college are not yet finalized."


    "I know that Seventh District University requires students to undergo on-the-job training before graduating senior high school. In fact, we have few students applying here. If you like, you can OJT in this company too," Manager Lan offered.


    On the side, her two employees could not help but secretly look at each other. Cathy and Chel exchanged a surprised expression in synchrony.. This had never happened in their company before! It was known that their manager would accept applicants that had no job experience. Even though many students had applied in their company for school compliance, no one was ever accepted!

 Chapter 305 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (5)

    "That''s very generous of you, Manager Lan. Thank you in advance," Sofia muttered in response of neither a confirmation nor refusal. She also made a quick consideration of the reputation of her company. It would surely be a convenient place to learn what the entertainment world really is.


    Sofia thought that the lady would no longer press the matter and would treat it as random conversation. A topic that was opened due to lack of familiarity. However, who would have thought that manager Lan was actually serious?


    "Later, you can see which department fits your passion.  I''ll give you a tour in this place. In this studio, there are a lot of fields that you could choose to work. We can provide minimum wage. You will gain a lot," the lady stated, somehow thinking how Sofia had given her a creative theme of their endorsement and how she came up with a slogan for it too. "What do you like, Sofia?"


    Sofia scratched her head and looked at her friends. "What I want... that''s hard to answer, manager Lan. I might disappoint you. Haha..."


    "Oh? What is it? Just tell me and let me judge if it is disappointing?" Manager Lan chuckled. Her tone sounded as if Sofia''s reply was within her expectation.


    She secretly eyed Sofia and mentally made a consideration, ''If you want to join the production team, I will surely arrange you to the team with the best producer. If you want in the advertisement, I can also make you my assistant.''


    "What I want right now... somehow, it is looked down on by many professionals. I don''t want to ruin your mood, Manager Lan," Sofia whispered and took a deep breath.


    She was certain that her response would disappoint this manager. With her position, no matter what the lady would assume about Sofia, it won''t be within her expectation. Sofia had already read manager Lan''s expression!


    After the group turned to another corner, there were no longer framed decorations hung on the wall in the lobby. In fact, they passed many doors on the left and right sides, and there was a thick carpet on the floor that they were walking. Such arrangement effectively suppressed their noises from their footsteps.


    "Looked down by professionals? Somehow, the art in this industry is indeed something that others think... what term should I use? Hmmm...." Manager Lan pondered for a few seconds. "Ahh... something not worthy of their respect. I can relate why you are hesitating, Sofia. My parents were both respected in the medical field. They are surgeons. And they despise what I am doing. But, I''ll tell you something meaningful, Sofia. As long as you are happy with what you are doing, it''s worth it! Now, tell me what you want to do?"


    The four members of the Chronos squad straightened their posture and quietly followed them. Sofia had finally noticed the door of manager Lan''s office was just the very end of this lobby.


    They walked closer and Sofia just maintained her eyes at the door. How could the lady relate to her? She then grinned and replied to the lady''s question...


    "Manager Lan, you may have high expectations of what I want? In fact, right now, I just want to play games."


    ''Play games!''


    Manager Lan was about to twist the doorknob of her office when she heard Sofia''s response. She could not help but took a pause for a moment and gazed at her.


    She was indeed disappointed by what the teen said. But, she did her best to conceal any traces of disappointment in her expression and hide it with an awkward smile.


    "HAHAHA, I have almost forgotten. You were indeed professional gamers before coming here," Manager Lan spoke and secretly cussed in contempt. ''Damn! What''s good about gaming? There is no future on it! This teen surely needs guidance!''


    With that, the hand that was suspended in the air finally reached the doorknob and twisted it. As she pushed the door open and entered, five people were already inside the office.


    With many people inside, Sofia and her companions waited at the doorstep.


    "Come in with me! Everyone, let me introduce the endorser of the latest models of our sneakers! The Chronos squad!" Manager Lan spoke formally after realizing that Sofia stopped walking after she entered her office.


    The five people immediately stood from their seats and turned their attention at the door.


    "Hello, good morning!" Sofia greeted them with the usual calmness in her tone.


    "G-good morning!" Claire followed. No matter how she tried to convince herself not to feel nervous, she was still fidgeting as she stepped forward and meet the five people.


    Clark, Stephen, and Joey just maintained a passive gaze and greeted them all together. "Good Morning!"


    "Cathy, please prepare 5 chairs for our visitors," Manager Lan instructed.


    "Yes, manager Lan," Cathy responded and left the office right away.


    Sofia''s eyes scanned the office. The place was twice bigger than boss Wang''s office. One could assume that it was not just an office but also an exclusive conference hall.


    "Okay, let me introduce to you the advertising department, Sofia. Here is Harold, Roy, Luis," Manager Lan pointed to the three male employees.


    Sofia smiled at them briefly. "Pleased to meet you!"


    "Welcome to Jones Studio! I''ve heard so much about you!" Luis initiated but the two males just smiled at her and did not speak a word.


    "Then, this is Vera and this is Aikee," Manager Lan finished her introduction by standing on the side of the female employee.


    Sofia offered the same courtesy towards the two females, however, they only gave her a condescending nod of their heads. They purposely whispered to each others ears in front of her.


    Sofia sternly look at them and thought. ''Rude.''  Then, she shifted her gaze to Manager Lan and gave her a meaningful look.


    Cathy then entered the office once more with five staff hauling five chairs. They positioned the chair on the side far away from the projector at the very end of the table.


    "Please have a seat. We will have a brief conference about the advertisement activities." Manager Lan gestured for Sofia to take a seat. She then walked near the projector and occupied the chair in the center.


    Sofia smiled and subconsciously sat on the chair that was placed in the other end center of the table. Meanwhile, Claire and Clark were on her right side, next to them were Vera and Aikee. Then, Stephen and Joey were on Sofia''s right side and the three male employees next to them.


    Two leaders were seated on both centers of the table. Cathy and Chel who were just standing on the side could not help but admire the similar authority that the two seemed to emit while sitting. Soon after, their conference commenced and Chel was operating the projector while Cathy was assisting her. The lights were turned dimmed as the flashed presentation in the projector followed to show to them.


    Sofia did not object nor made any comments while the advertising department continued to brainstorm and shared their ideas with one another. She just observed them and admired their willingness to express their individual ideas.


    It''s just a pity that the ideas they had proposed were all obsolete from Sofia''s perspective. But, it was no one''s fault that what they had presented sounded outdated on Sofia''s ears.


    While immersed in listening to them, Sofia''s eyes suddenly shifted to her group and saw that all of them were not sitting anymore. All their heads were supported by their elbows they leaned at the table comfortably. Her four members have fallen asleep!!!


    "Guys! Please don''t sleep... this is a proper meeting! It''s inappropriate to fall asleep here," Sofia tugged their arms and discreetly called them.


    Claire finally opened her eyes with the sudden movement of her arm and smiled at Sofia. "Sof, I don''t know what they are talking about!"


    ''It''s my fault for dragging them here. At this age, this thing is indeed too early for them to engage,'' Sofia pondered and stopped waking up her other members. She just nodded at Claire and continued to pay attention to Manager Lan expressing her approval to the ideas that were presented.


    By the time the conference ended, Manager Lan chuckled at the sight of the four members of the Chronos Squad. Sofia only gave her a sheepish smile.


    Only the ther employees were not happy to see Sofia''s members sleeping. But, Sofia could not also blame their reactions.


    "Ehem! Why are they asleep? This is not a sleeping quarter!" Aikee announced while the other maintained a reluctant expression on their faces.


    "Sorry for this. It had been super busy for us. Anyway, we are ignorant with this kind of conference meeting. Please don''t take offense, manager Lan," Sofia spoke in a serene tone.


    "Excuses!" Aikee exclaimed. "Even our regular artists here are also busy. But, they are never rude like what your group had done!"


    "Please don''t over react. Manager Lan did not seemed to be offended?" Sofia emphasized and did not even wake her members.


    "Haha... it''s okay... Aikee. Apologies, the advertising department are known for their strict behavior, Sofia. Where do you want to have lunch?" Manager Lan spoke and gave her employee a sharp glare.


    "We brought our food, Manager Lan. Maybe we will eat after the endorsement shooting," Sofia softly stated and glanced at Joey''s bag where they put their packed food.


    "I see! Since the others are really sleeping, I will let you rest in my office, Sofia. I''ll bring my employees to have lunch outside first.. Later on, the producer of the endorsement project will come here to meet you," Manager Lan informed her.

 Chapter 306 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (6)

    "Manager Lan, pardon me for asking this... But, I think you''ve been tolerant to those teens. Why do you allow them to insult us back there?" Aikee spoke after the group walked out of the office and closed the door behind them. The scene of the Chronos squad members sleeping while she was presenting her ideas made her felt extremely upset. But, because of manager Lan''s strange reaction, she did not dare spoke it out.


    "Hmm... Do you know why no one dares to bully the celebrities from our studio?" Manager Lan asked back to her in a friendly and considerate tone.


    Such a question seemed to have no connection with her initial query. However, Aikee still replied, "Because the company is capable of handling our talents well."


    "That''s right. We have the capability of managing the best talents in the district. So, no one dared to complain despite the malicious attempt to throw controversies at them," Manager Lan muttered.


    "But, manager Lan, this has nothing to do with those teens. We should not keep tardy endorsers. How dare those brats! They just joined us only to sleep in our private conference room!" Aikee voiced out feeling frustrated and annoyed at the behavior that she had witnessed.


    Aikee''s teammates wanted to spoke their agreement with her complaint. But, when they looked at manager Lan''s expression, they decided that it was better for them to stay silent. Manager Lan seemed not angry by the teens'' attitude?!


    "They joined us because I invited them. As for the tardiness, they arrived in the studio more than half an hour before their appointment schedule. They are not tardy. They are early..." Manager Lan paused for a while. Then, she look at Chel and Cathy that were walking side by side behind her. The two ladies nodded their heads and smiled at her.


    ''But why would manager Lan invite ignorant teenagers to our conference meeting?'' Aikee asked in her mind. She secretly rolled her eyes and mentally shook her head. She found it hard to believe that her boss would still defend the teens!


    "Perhaps, they were asleep because they are bored with your presentation?" Manager Lan curved her lips. Her tone almost accusing. As if she meant to say that the reason why the Chronos squad members had fallen asleep was that their department did not keep their presentation interesting!


    Hearing this word, the five people lowered their gaze in embarrassment. Even Aikee''s face turned red and she became speechless. If they were confused about manager Lan''s personality, one thing was clear to them... that their boss was actually partial to the teens.


    ''But why?''


    Manager Lan continued walking and spoke once more. "I am strict to all my employees because I know that there is still a lot to improve for them. I want them to be the best in their field. But, that girl named Sofia... we just had a brief conversation over the phone last time. Yet, she had supplied a lot of ideas to make this new project great. How could I not be tolerant of this kind of talent? In fact, I want her to work in this company."


    ''They don''t look great and talented at all!'' Aikee made a protest inside her mind. Manager Lan only gaped at her and sensed the hostility of Aikee.


    "Hmmn... Cathy and Chel, how does Mr. Wang treat those teens when you meet them in his office?" Manager Lan inquired her two staff without looking in their direction. Boss Wang''s press company had a good connection to their studio. Unbeknownst to her, the relationship of her company and boss Wang was the same as Sofia''s contract.


    "Manager Lan, the reason why Mr. Wang recommended them to be the endorsers of our product was because of their popularity. It is said that in the social media, they are the main topic..." Chel answered.


    "To be the main topic in the social media is not something that should be praised. Our celebrities have also done it many times," Aikee stated hinting that Chel''s idea was somehow too shallow.


    Cathy glanced at Aikee in the eye and smiled. "Ms. Aikee is right. Our celebrities were able to do it. Being the trending topic is a natural occurrence in our studio. However, this time... those teens, their Chronos squad had secured all the top 10 on the trending topic with different discussions involving them. It''s not just the main topic. All the trending main topics would lead to them!"


    "Top 10! Is that for real?" Aikee exclaimed and took out her phone from her shoulder bag. Then, she opened her social media account and clicked on the top trending discussions.


    "If you don''t believe what I said, you''ll definitely believe what you''ll see in the trending hashtags there," Cathy stated and looked away.


    Manager Lan sighed once more. Then, the expression on Sofia''s face suddenly replayed her mind as she remembered their meeting.


    "Not only they are smart, but they also know how to play dumb. Don''t fall on their act, Aikee. In fact, Sofia was listening to all the ideas that were presented at the conference. Yet, not even once I had seen her show an impressed expression. The entire time, she was passive. It made me think that the ideas we have talked about were just average..."


    "Manager Lan, you think that our presentation was only average?" Vera could not help but made her thoughts known. How could their presentation be an average?


    "No, I think, it is remarkable. But, after seeing Sofia''s expression, I think it''s less impressive. I suggest for your department to be friendly with those teens and tried to accommodate them. Maybe, they will share their ideas too," Manager Lan finished.


    ~~


    On the other hand, back in the office of Manager Lan, Sofia''s members had shifted to various comfortable sleeping positions while leaning on the table. She just sat there and observed them with gentle eyes.


    ''That manager Lan... what could be her hidden agenda?'' Sofia pondered. Her eyes diverted towards the ceiling while tilting her face upwards. Then, her arms propped on the table and supported her chin.


    Since the lady did not criticize them for their lack of manners during the conference meeting, Sofia quickly sensed that something was going on. There was no excuse for her team to sleep. If she was in manager Lan''s position, she would have called them out and reprimand them.


    While Sofia was still immersed in thinking about manager Lan''s hidden agenda, the door in the office was pushed open. A man took a single step inside only to came to an abrupt stop. There was a camera dangling in his chest and both his hands supported to steady it.


    The sight of Sofia''s thinking pose welcomed his eyes. In Sofia''s momentary daze, he sensed a boundless depth being expressed by her facial expression.  In an instant, he suddenly felt the urge to take a picture of Sofia''s face.


    Without making any noise, the man grabbed his camera and positioned it to his face. And then, he snapped a picture of Sofia.


    The moment he pressed the capture button, the camera made a flashing effect which startled Sofia and finally pulled her back to reality.


    "Sorry. I am compelled to take a stolen photo of your expression. It is beautiful and alluring. You look like you are trying to explore the world of mysteries in your head," the man quickly explained. "Look, it''s stunning!" he added and showed Sofia the picture.


    When Sofia took a glimpse of the picture, her heart quivered and her hands trembled in fear. Her eyes widened for a split second and she took a gulp before shifting her gaze to another direction.


    "Please delete it," Sofia mumbled softly while trying to regain her composure.


    For some reason unknown to her, the appearance that she saw in the photo was the face that belonged to her past life!


    ''Why am I seeing the reflection of my past appearance in the camera?'' Sofia questioned her thoughts. She wanted to take a look again. But, she was really scared that she would see her face in the past again!


    The man''s smile froze and he was completely baffled by her request of deleting the picture. Somehow he felt that it was a subconscious demand.


    On the side, Sofia did not notice that her companions had already opened their eyes. They quickly gathered around the man and look at the screen of his camera too.


    "Aww, Sof... you look so mysterious in this picture. It''s a waste if it will be deleted! We should keep it! Or maybe use it as your profile picture?" Claire quickly asserted.


    The man was also shocked by Sofia''s words. His fingers were still frozen for a few seconds before he regained his senses.


    "Stolen photos gave a different impact to the viewer. Your picture is admirable! The beautiful Miss here is right. It''s a waste if you''ll have this deleted!" the man stated referring to Claire''s comment.


    Suddenly, Stephen''s hand reached and grabbed the camera. He then stared at the picture of Sofia. "I will keep this if you don''t want it, Sof."


    Sofia was at loss. But after a while, she thought of an alibi and spoke coldly, "I don''t want someone taking picture of me without my permission."


    Her tone did not give them any chance to argue with her anymore. The man also nodded his head and felt dismayed. Something in Sofia''s expression made him felt uneasy.


    "I will delete it, then. My apologies for not asking your permission," the man spoke in a respectful tone. His thumb pressed the buttons of his camera.. Then, he sighed when the notification of deleted photo was displayed on the screen.

 Chapter 307 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (7)

    Before the atmosphere around them turned awkward, the man extended his right hand to Sofia and gave her a friendly smile. "I''m Emerson, the photographer for the endorsement project. It''s nice to meet... all of you!"


    "It''s our pleasure, Emerson. I''m Sofia," she quickly replied, and the two exchanged a formal handshake.


    They were quick to switch their tones and sounded professional.


    Emerson faced the other Chronos members. He felt a sense of casualness after seeing them just sitting in their chairs comfortably as if the place was their home. His smile widened as he extended his hand and offered them a proper handshake too.


    Claire smiled back at him but hesitated for a minute. She immediately glanced at Sofia as if she was asking for her go signal.


    When she saw Sofia nod her head, she followed the handshake. "I''m Claire."


    Joey grinned at the man and gripped his hand with confidence. "Hello, I''m Joey! Please take care of us."


    Stephen also casually introduced his name while shaking his hands. "Stephen."


    Clark remained polite. "I''m Clark."


    "So... Ehem!" the man paused and brushed his bangs. He then stood straight and continued, "Before we proceed to the dressing room to change your outfits, let''s have a quick meeting here. Manager Lan had already instructed me to have a brief conversation with you. It''s about what you want to do during the shooting and all the stuff that we need to execute in the set," Emerson started and grabbed the vacant chair next to Clark.


    Sofia attentively listened to him. But, when her eyes darted on each side of the table she noticed that her companions were leaning sluggishly on it.


    "Don''t slouch," Sofia murmured and the four members of the Chronos squad quickly fixed their sitting position and sat properly.


    Their hands were placed on the table in uniform order. Even Emerson who had just taken a sit also straightened his back after hearing Sofia''s words without realizing it.


    "Emerson, to set your expectation, we are still green in this field," Sofia started with a modest expression on her face. She was direct and honest. "This is our first endorsement together. But, we''ve done some research on how to properly project in the camera and act appropriately during the set."


    The man took her response into consideration. He then took something from his pocket which appeared to be a small pamphlets and put it on the table.


    "Manager Lan did mention that to me. She said... you are still students and can be considered as beginners to this endorsement project. However, she told me that it was you who came up with the idea of the theme. Breaking the comfort zone. I''m very impressed when I heard this theme. Here are some poses that I want you to do. I have labeled this into 25 letters, from letter A to letter Y."


    Emerson distributed a small pamphlet to each of them.


    Sofia opened the paper and saw five poses with labeled letters A, B, C, D, E in the upper center of each photo.


    All of it consist of different hand gestures. She then carefully studied each photo.


    In the picture labeled with the letter A, the pose is shown as a thumbs-up of the left hand. While the right hand was placed on the waist.


    Sofia smiled while staring at the paper and thought, ''It''s easier than what I''ve seen on the internet. Maybe, this photographer is considerate because of our lack of experience? How thoughtful of him!''


    Sofia continued to look at the next picture in the pamphlet. In letter B, it was a peace sign of the right hand while the left hand was positioned on the side.


    ''Such a common pose? Even ordinary people like us can make it in the modeling industry if this is the standard,'' she mentally commented before flipping the next page of the pamphlet.


    For letter C, it was an ok sign which could also resemble a money sign where the index finger and the thumb were pressed in a circle while the three other fingers were spread out.


    This time, Sofia stopped scrutinizing the pamphlet and looked up. She faced Emerson with a curious gaze. "These are the poses that I will do?" she asked.


    "Exactly! Each one of you has different poses. Please check their labels," Emerson responded and looked at the other Chronos members. He gestured them to open the pamphlets that they were holding too.


    "I have the letters F, G, H, I, J," Joey announced.


    "The labels here are... U, V, W, X, Y," Claire stated after looking at the content of her pamphlet. "What''s your''s, Clark?"


    "Mine are labeled with letters K, L, M, N, O," Clark quickly answered and smiled at her.


    "Is that difficult?" Claire leaned closer to Clark and took a peek at his poses. Then, she showed her the poses of her pamphlets too.


    "P, Q, R, S, T," Stephen just simply read his while casually flipping the pamphlet.


    "Do you think that the poses are difficult? I''ve tried to make it as easier as possible. But, if there is something that you are not comfortable to pose, we can also revise it," Emerson asked them.


    "I''m confused. Here are the hand gestures. But we are endorsing shoes, right? Shouldn''t we put emphasis on the products?" Sofia directly asked.


    "Haha, Miss Sofia is really worthy of being the leader of the group! Thank you for that question. About the product, we will use chairs and other props later. For now, just focus on the poses that I''ve provided," Emerson immediately explained.


    "Hmmn... I see. As for my poses... these are okay. I can do it," Sofia answered. And her members were quick to agree with her too.


    "That''s great!" Emerson clapped his hand in excitement. "Now, what will happen is... during the shooting, I will announce and shout these letters. And then, you will make the pose that corresponds to it. Right now, I have to ask you to memorize the pose in the pamphlets that I provided. You have five minutes," Emerson explained further.


    "This arrangement is indeed very convenient. Thank you, Emerson!" Sofia expressed after realizing that the pamphlets given to them were like a cheat in a game to make their quest easier.


    "You''re welcome, Sofia! This is the most fitting arrangement that I have thought of. I''m glad that you like it," Emerson sighed in satisfaction. Then he continued, "So, I need every one of you to cooperate with me and do your best! Don''t be nervous in front of the camera. You must smile when I say smile. Make it look natural, okay?" Emerson enthusiastically encouraged them.


    "Okay!" the group replied in synchrony.


    Five minutes later, Emerson guided them to their dressing room. Cathy and Chel were already there when they entered. They waved their hands in a casual greeting.


    "Miss Sofia, it will just be us and Emerson. The assigned producer of this project is caught in the middle of a family lunch. So, he can''t come here," Cathy informed them.


    "No problem," Sofia simply said.


    "Here are the outfits that we prepared. All of it is tailored with golden color in consideration of your squad''s logo. And the shoes are on the side," Chel stated and pointed at the sofa where boxes of shoes were piled up.


    Claire and Clark examined the outfits right away. Meanwhile, Stephen and Joey went to the shoeboxes and opened them. Only Sofia remained standing in her spot.


    "I''ll go to the next room and will set up my equipment," Emerson excused himself and exited the dressing room.


    "There are only two fitting areas here. That one is on that corner. And this area," Cathy stated and eyed the areas with black curtains. "As for the outfit, you may choose it according to your style. You may express your creativity however you like."


    "Ohh... wow! Then, I''ll take this," Claire said and held a black crop top with long sleeves and gray jogger pants with 3 golden stripes on each side.


    Sofia smiled at her and gave her an approving look. Soon after, the others quickly choose their outfits and went to the fitting area.


    "How did you manage to find a suitable fit for our shoes, Ms. Cathy?" Sofia suddenly inquired. She did not remember someone asking them for their sizes. Yet, when she wore the sneaker, it perfectly fit.


    "About the sizes, we pretty much make our guesses and assumed it based on your body proportions. And if it does not fit, we have backups in the storage area," Cathy casually answered.


    Sofia then realized that these two may not just be simple staff of manager Lan. "The two of you... Are you both stylists in this company? Or do you work for the shoe company?"


    In Sofia''s mind, there were only two possibilities for a person to be able to accurately guess the sizes of someone correctly. First, this person must be close and familiar with one another. Or, the other reason was that the person is extremely experienced that just by looking at someone, it was enough for them to visually measure and guess their sizes.


    "Miss Sofia has good eyes. Sometimes, we are indeed assigned as stylists. But, currently, we are on this endorsement project as assistants," Chel replied before Cathy could speak a word.


    "Why?" Sofia urged them. It was such a waste of their talents to be just the assistants!


    "U-uhmm... The last artist that was assigned to us is on hiatus. And there are a lot of competent stylists here," Cathy answered with a melancholic look on her face.


    Sofia nodded her head and quickly understood their situation. There was no doubt that the two have the skills. But, in the entertainment industry, the competition of being a stylist was probably high too.


    "Do you want to be the stylist of our squad?" Sofia thoughtfully offered.

 Chapter 308 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (8)

    Cathy and Chel were ultimately stunned by what Sofia had just proposed to them. Become the stylist of their group! They had never expected Sofia to give them a direct offer.


    "What do you think?" Sofia asked them after they remained silent. She was not really in a hurry to hire a stylist for their squad. The Chronos squad is still in their gaming career and had just started their business. As for the entertainment industry, it was not certain yet if they want to walk this path in the long run. Because they are still beginners, they don''t necessarily need other people to style for them.


    However, since she had met these two females, she felt that it was only right to have them join her. Having a competent stylist would make them look more presentable in public and also would lessen their time to prepare proper outfits during occasions.


    Chel and Cathy stared at each other for a long time. Neither of them blinked their eyes. In fact, they were thinking the same question. But, they had no guts to speak it out.


    "Since you have managed to guess our sizes correctly, I think, the two of you can work with us," Sofia continued.


    "Ahmm, Miss Sofia, t-this offer, thank you but I think I''ll just stick with my job. I''m happy working here," Chel spoke awkwardly. In her mind, such an invitation to work for the group was something not reliable. How could these teens who can''t even pay their entrance fee give them a reasonable salary?


    "That''s also good. Keeping our happiness makes everything worth it," Sofia replied in her usual tone. The direct refusal was something that she did not expect. But, she was not also desperate to employ them too.


    "Frankly speaking, you should focus on your endorsement first, Miss Sofia. You are still young, anyway. There are many talents in our studio who had been doing their best every day for the past half year and still have no stylist," Cathy also said and forced a smile on her lips.


    "You mean, you think that it is ambitious for me to get a stylist at this stage of our career?" Sofia calmly questioned. She pulled a purple hoodie from the rack of clothes and wore it casually in front of them.


    Cathy was about to respond, however, Claire already emerged from the fitting room.


    "Sof, what do you think of this outfit?" Claire inquired. She had made a finishing touch of putting a yellow fashion cap in her head.


    "Looks good, Claire!" Sofia replied and walked away from the two staff. Even if Cathy would not respond to her, she somehow sensed the reason for their hesitation.


    Clark had chosen the same color as Claire. Stephen coincidentally wore a hoodie too. Only Joey choose a sporty jacket and a varsity-style fashion sense.


    "The shoe design is really cool!" Clark exclaimed and examined the edges of the sneaker that he was wearing.


    "It really feels comfortable to wear too. As expected with this company!"  Claire complimented too. She made a few twirls around before they walked out of the dressing room and went to their shooting set.


    The door of the next room was not closed and they have seen Emerson adjusting the lighting. It was just a typical studio room that almost had a black and white ambiance.


    On the side, there were chairs, skateboards, baseball bats, and other sports equipment.


    Emerson looked at them and gestured for them to get inside. "Let''s start!"


    They immediately stood in front of the camera and Emerson started to instruct them.


    "Sofia, get a skateboard and stand on it. Use pose A!"


    Hearing the man''s word, Sofia picked the skateboard. But, she was hesitant to stand. "I don''t know how to skate," she stated.


    "It''s okay, that is a prop. It won''t move when you stand on it," Emerson quickly asserted.


    Sofia followed and realized that the skateboard was indeed more stable than the real one.


    "Nice! Sofia, face the camera, maintain that formal expression on your face, please. Claire, use the chair and stand next to Sofia. Put your right leg in the chair and your left leg on the floor. Pose letter X. Smile on the camera, dear! Nice!"


    Sofia and Claire posed at the center with their backs facing each other.


    "Great, you have chosen a good outfit. It''s more dramatic! Stephen, stand next to Sofia and Clark, to the side of Claire. Stephen, pose letter S. Clark, pose letter M.... Good!" Emerson continued.


    "Joey, pick the baseball bat and put it on the back of your neck. Hung both your hands and pose letter H. Smirk a little bit... like a smug look."


    "I''m taking pictures from different angles. Maintain your position."


    The flash of the camera and the clicking sound followed. For the next hours, only Emerson''s voice could be heard on the set while giving the teens instructions.


    The shouts of the corresponding letters and the props that they should use followed to echo in the corners of the room. And after taking hundreds of pictures from the Chronos squad, Emerson finally called for a break time.


    "Awesome! I can''t believe you are a beginner! The expressions are on point! All these pictures are brilliant!" Emerson told them with a cheeky grin on his lips. There was a great satisfaction written all over his face. "Let''s take a break for 10 minutes and then, we will try to record a video. Okay?"


    Sofia could only nod her head. She felt as if her body had just performed the hardest physical education exercise and now felt numb.


    "Being a model is not actually just about smiling in front of the camera. It''s actually tiring!" Sofia chuckled at her realization. She stretched her legs and arms and tried to ease the numbness.


    "Miss Sofia, you''ve done great! You''ll get used to it after a few more shooting," Emerson spoke gently.


    "Thank you for the patience that you have exerted in this project, Emerson!" Sofia told him. She just recognized that it was not also easy to be a photographer. The pamphlets that he showed them as well as the dedication to give them instructions of how to pose, he exerted more than the effort that her group performed.


    "You''re welcome, Sofia! Now, go there and try to relax.. The next round of shooting will need more energy," Emerson replied and focused his attention on the pictures that he had taken.

 Chapter 309 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (9)

    "It''s hard to do endorsements? How do you feel?" Sofia asked her group. She wanted to calculate their opinions and analyze if their group would continue to collaborate with other brands soon.


    The members expressed a long sigh. All of them casually sat on the couch and extended all their limbs to relax.


    "It''s tiring but, I''m actually enjoying, Sof. Even if it''s hard, I actually like it," Claire grinned. Her eyes were darted at the ceiling and she stared there for a long time.


    Sofia closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Then, she exhaled and smiled, "There are many people in the gaming industry who want to endorse brand deals and collaborate with other companies. We are lucky to be referred by boss Wang and have this opportunity. This time, we can test if we are really interested in doing endorsements. Because, if you feel like it''s too troublesome, we can just focus on practicing our gameplay."


    "Sof, you are our leader. We will always follow your arrangements. We won''t reach this far if it''s not because of you," Clark expressed feeling deep sentiments of their current achievements.


    "And when you told manager Lan that what you like is playing games... I almost burst into laughter. She actually looked very disappointed!" Joey whispered at them. His feet rocked back and forth and his shoulder trembled in delight.


    "That''s right. I think she wants you to work for her, Sof. It''s obviously written in her face," Claire commented too.


    "Hmmn... By the way, do you require OJT, Steph? Joey?" Sofia suddenly inquired. These two were in their senior high and would soon graduate. Based on their academic curriculum, they had to undergo on-the-job training before graduation.


    "Sof, please, don''t worry about it. You are already thinking of our squad, our club, our business, and this endorsement. Leave this study to us. We will graduate," Stephen emphasized and everyone hummed their agreement.


    "There is sister Jing for the squad. Sister Heiz will handle the club. Danny and Derek will be in our business," Sofia chuckled. "Right now, I''m just showing them how to handle the operations. Eventually, we will only supervise them."


    "How about your night class, Sof? How are your teachers? Somehow, the students seemed to have no more nasty opinions about nigh class students," Claire spoke and closed her eyes. She leaned on Clark''s shoulder and smiled at him.


    "Yeah, it seems," Sofia softly replied. She suddenly remembered the last time she attended the class and saw the butterfly effect book of her teacher. "I don''t really pay much attention to our fellow students these days."


    "I''ve seen few netizens trolling in social media about our participation in the regional tournament, Sof. They also created memes about us," Joey stated. He reached his bag and took out his phone. After searching the posts, he showed it to them.


    The group looked together and saw the posts. "They are really creative. Nevermind. Anyway, have you heard of the Slayer Gods Squad? According to WINS, they will represent their clubs in the regional tournament."


    "Yeah, I know the history of their squad leader and WINS. It was once trending in the MMORPG community," Joey replied and kept his phone back in his bag.


    "The disbandment of the best guild was once a hashtag that trends for a week. It was about them," Stephen supplied.


    "After this endorsement project, let''s focus on our practice," Sofia simply said and everyone nodded their heads.


    "By the way, there is a rumor that the regional tournament will actually be held... not in our region. It will be in Plum North," Clark suddenly opened up another subject.


    "The Plum North!? Their language is different there," Claire subconsciously scratched her head and looked surprised. "I thought it will be in district 6."


    "That''s another rumor. If not in Plum North, it will be in district 6," Clark replied.


    Sofia gently brushed her hair using her fingers and massaged her forehead. "Clark, you''ve become the gossip master. Don''t be anxious about rumors. Since the tournament organizers have no official venue, it may be in a completely different place."


    "Hahaha, I just saw it, Sof. You know, my elder brother James... he is actually very updated about the tournament rumors online," Clark defended.


    "If it''s in the Plum North Region, then, we will go there. If it''s in district 6, much better," Sofia giggled. But at the back of her head, she could not help but secretly thought about the other possibility. ''Any place is fine as long as it''s not in district 2.''


    She was determined to avoid going to district 2 in her lifetime. For some reason unknown to her, just by simply thinking about stepping a foot in district 2 gave her a dreadful feeling.


    "Alright! Break time is over! Let''s go!" Emerson''s voice reverberated once more.


    The group quickly stood from the couch and went back to the center.


    "EHEM! Excuse me?" a middle-aged woman suddenly called from the doorway.


    "Yes?" Emerson replied and turned around to face in the direction.


    "This studio set is scheduled for  3:00 PM film shooting. We need to decorate the entire place with our props! You must end your photo shoot," the woman demanded.


    Without waiting for Emerson''s response, she waved her hand and led several men carrying large props to step inside. They quickly put their props in the side and exited the room.


    "But, we are not yet done with our project. And it''s not yet 3 PM! We cannot just abruptly end this just because you want us to finish our photo shoot here," Emerson protested and walked towards the woman. He glanced at the Chronos squad and gave them a reassuring smile.


    "What do you mean by that? Of course, it''s not yet 3 PM! The filming will start at that time. All decorations must be ready at 3 PM! Otherwise, the director will scold me!" the woman coldly spoke at Emerson, giving him a cold look.


    "I know that. But, this set is scheduled until 2:30 PM for me. You have to wait until its 2:30!" Emerson calmly held his argument.


    "What?! Do you expect us to finish our decoration in just 30 minutes? Our theme is historical background. This decoration will require us a minimum of one hour. You need to end this photo session!" the woman demanded.


    "What''s wrong here?" Another man entered and joined the woman.


    "This photographer insisted on continuing his photo shoot. Look at his models... I don''t think I''ve seen their faces somewhere? Do you know them?" the woman asked the man while staring at the Chronos squad.


    "Newbies are actually complaining now?" the man laughed. His tone was full of mockery.


    A few more people entered bringing larger props. And without asking permission, they actually put Emerson''s equipment sets on the corner.


    "What are you even shooting? What kind of endorsement needs so much time to photo shoot from 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM? Isn''t photo shoots had a maximum limit of one hour for endorsement projects?" the man questioned once more.


    "My talents are still new and require proper instructions. But, they are skilled. Don''t insult them," Emerson glared at the man. He was focused on these two people and did not notice that his equipment sets and props were already placed on the corner of the room.


    Sofia and her members who were waiting for Emerson did not have a choice but to also stood on the corner while the newcomers started to do their set up decorations.


    "Did you know that this film is being sponsored by the Lee Family to promote local culture of our district? How dare you act stubbornly. Just leave this place and end your photo shoot," the woman expressed.


    "Excuse me, Emerson. Our materials were already removed," Sofia calmly spoke.


    "In my entire career, this is the first time I have meet people that are very unprofessional," Emerson gritted his teeth.


    "Hmph! Unprofessional? Why? Can you afford to offend the Lee Family?" the man gave them a challenging tone.


    Sofia looked at the two villains for a moment. Then, she asked, "Which Lee Family member? Maybe I can afford."


    At the same time, Manager Lan arrived at the entrance door and heard Sofia. Her pupils constricted and quickly walked near them.


    "I did not know that there will be film shooting. It''s my mistake not to inform my people. Producer Weng, please carry on. My people is done here," Manager Lan interrupted.


    "That''s not right. This newbie seemed confident that she can offend the Lee Family! Hehe, since you asked which Lee Family, then, let me tell you... it''s the current young master Brent!" the woman smirked, expecting for Sofia to back down.


    "I am friends with Brent. I don''t think he will tolerate this attitude of unprofessionalism," Sofia replied.


    On the side, manager Lan had started sweating. In the entire district, all business owners would somehow give face to the Lee Family. But, Sofia was actually claiming that she was friend with the young master of the family!


    "Hahaha... Sofia, let''s talk to my office," manager Lan sternly called Sofia. Then, she signaled her to walk out of the door.


    "Manager Lan, if you will just let your employees get humiliated because of unreasonable people, they will eventually lose respect and leave you. As an employer, you should think carefully," Sofia muttered.. But, she still called her group and they walked away.

 Chapter 310 - The Chronos Squads Endorsement Of Shoe Brand (10)

    "Hahaha... Manager Lan, you are the boss of this company. How come a newbie, much less just your endorser, dared to speak to you about how to handle employees?" the man spoke with a hint of provocation.


    Sofia halted her steps and closed her eyes before taking a deep breath.


    ''The audacity!'' she mentally expressed before slowly opening her eyes. She observed the reaction of Manager Lan and realized that the lady was actually ignoring the man.


    "No matter what, it''s a small world after all. One day, our paths might cross again. Work hard and don''t give us an opportunity to bite back at you for using such words that you''ve called us today. Much less just an endorser... We''ll see," Sofia calmly spoke without looking in the direction of the man. She just stared at the carpeted floor for a while before looking straight ahead.


    "Youngsters do not really know fear. Hehehe, Manager Lan, are you just going to let such a daring attitude slip? That''s not like you, at all! Are you going to keep a brat to work for you?" the woman spoke again before manager Lan and Sofia could step out of the room. "If I were you, I''ll discard them. There are still many teens out there that are willing to obey the rules and maintain respect with their seniors."


    Discard them!


    A loud silence followed. If it was in the game, then, such words had really caused the target of mockery to be petrified. Manager Lan also gasped an air and furrowed her eyebrows before finally facing the woman.


    Hearing this, Sofia felt a sudden rage bubbling in her chest. Her team was bluntly described as an object of disposal! Now, the lady had successfully stirred a dangerous emotion in her heart. She suddenly felt like destroying this woman''s career right that instant.


    "Sof," Claire mumbled feeling the ominous shift of emotion in Sofia''a expression. Although Sofia appeared calm, there was something in her aura that made Claire worry. She quickly held her wrist to comfort her.


    Even Stephen moved closer to Sofia and took gathered his courage to reached and gently wrapped his arm on her shoulder.


    "You can''t just say that to teenagers!" Emerson blurted, completely breaking the silence around them.


    Sofia just gave the woman an icy look and whispered harshly, "You are the one who is daring... Brent is my friend. No matter how successful the Lee family is, they would never treat anyone like an object. The price of our meeting today, you will pay an expensive cost one day."


    "Big words... Big words... I''m so scared! Hahaha," the woman laughed at them and deliberately looked at Sofia from head to foot. Then, she switched her attention to manager Lan. "I hope manager Lan can give consideration to my words. Keeping endorsers with this attitude will just cause trouble to your company!"


    "Ehem! The young lady has actually a point, producer Weng," Manager Lan awkwardly gulped to remain neutral. Offending the Lee family was simply not an option in her company. She would surely incur a big loss! But, she did not also know why... her intuition also tells her that offending Sofia felt the same.


    "It''s true that we are friends with the young master of the Lee family," Claire sounded on the side, trying to give Sofia a backup. However, Sofia slightly shook her head to stop her.


    "Prolonging this argument is very unproductive for my squad. Since producer Weng already kicked us out, it''s pointless to discuss this matter," Sofia commented in a solemn tone.


    "Hehe... Declaring that you know the Lee family so casually? Do you have proof? Hehehe... It''s so easy to claim things like that. But, words with no proof is nothing," the man smugly laughed, completely ignoring Sofia''s dismissal.


    "Oh? Forget about proof... What you have done is very unprofessional. You''ve touched personal things that do not belong to you. You''ve treated us like we are so low and you are so high. I''m sorry, but it only takes one minute of conduct to build a lifetime of reputation. Even if you are that high now, with that attitude, you''ll fall. We don''t need to go to your ''high'' level and continue this argument," Sofia asserted at the two before she continued to walk. Even though she did not own the equipment sets that they used, she was extremely offended when it was dragged to the corner of the room. And hearing the woman''s suggestion to discard them made her extremely upset. Yet, she reminded herself that it''s not the right time to settle scores with them.


    The Chronos squad members also glared at them before they followed Sofia.


    Emerson was also resentful of what happened. But, he remained silent and did not express any more complaints knowing that the Lee family was sponsoring the film.


    ~


    Inside the office of Manager Lan, the lady did not know how to properly react towards Sofia too. She was suddenly overwhelmed with mixed emotions. She was breathing in and out and tried to calm down.


    "I am very disappointed," the voice of Sofia suddenly sounded before the silence could take over the room.


    It was clear that her words were directed to manager Lan. Emerson also wanted to speak those words however, he was afraid that his career would be ruined.


    "There are too many disappointments that a person will face in life. When you are young, you don''t need to think of repercussions. But, Sofia, when you reached our age, you will also choose to yield," Manager Lan finally responded.


    Sofia curved her lips into a smile.


    "Repercussions? Certain adults are sure confident of their abilities. But overestimating oneself or underestimating others will only lead to the path of destruction," Sofia mumbled and looked at the lady straight in the eye. "Ahh... While I am still young in your eyes, I might as well cultivate this courage and tell you directly how I feel, manager Lan. What they did was foul. I won''t accept such treatment to me and my members. Not only to my squad but also to Emerson and to yourself... you should not let people cross your boundary of respect."


    " As for me... I-I''m fine, Sofia. We have lots of photos in here. I think this will do," Emerson smiled bitterly.


    "My point is, as far as my squad is concerned, reaching success does not require us to abandon our dignity and self-respect. Yet, manager Lan, your principles are completely different from ours," Sofia muttered.


    "However you call it, you should also know that we cannot offend the Lee family, Sofia. They are the biggest supporter in our studio. They could destroy a business in just a snap of their fingers. Their connection is formidable," Manager Lan sighed.


    "Perhaps, the reason why the Lee family had reached this reputation is that they always followed their principles too. No matter what it is, once you concede, it''s automatically your loss," Sofia exhaled. "Since we are done, my squad will take a leave," she respectfully added and bowed her head to manager Lan and Emerson.


    The Chronos squad maneuvered their way towards the exit. No one spoke a word until they reached outside.


    "Sof, what if we call Brent?" Claire asked. The group strolled towards the sidewalk while Clark was calling his driver.


    "Yes, they are asking for proof. We can call Brent and show them that we are friends!" Joey added.


    "There is no need. He is busy preparing for his wedding tomorrow," Sofia stated.


    "Oops!" Clark gave Sofia a sheepish look. "Uhmm, I''ve secretly taken a video in the studio set a while ago and sent it to Brent. Sof, I did not know that you won''t contact Brent! I thought---" he paused and then sighed.


    "You thought?" Sofia calmly followed and urged Clark to continue what he was about to say.


    "I-- I thought you would tell Brent that they are unprofessional and withdraw their funds for the film," Clark finished.


    "That''s a good idea, bro! We should do that. Brent will never hesitate once he watched your video," Joey supported.


    "Have you heard of the reason why they are filming?" Sofia suddenly asked them.


    For a moment, the Chronos members tried to recall their interaction with producer Weng. However, it was not clear to them the reason for the film. They only shook their heads and said, "No."


    "In the future, when there are arguments like that, you should pay close attention to details so that you can make an objective decision of the overall situation," Sofia smiled gently. Her companions were too focused on the argument and their emotions. They did not listen to the crucial details that were discussed!


    "Producer Weng mentioned that the film is sponsored by the Lee family to promote our local culture. This kind of detail is very important. Because if the film is only for entertainment and her personal gain, I would definitely ask Brent to cancel his funds and cut off his support for the film. But, since the film is beneficial for the preservation of our culture, we should not hinder its production just because they treated us like that. When making big decisions, we must keep a clear and calm emotion."


    "T-then... We can''t teach them a lesson, Sof?" Joey asked. He actually felt that it would be justified if the Lee family stop supporting the film.


    "No, not today. It''s a waste of time. If they pay us to teach them a lesson, maybe, we can!" Sofia playfully replied. Her expression finally shifted back.


    "Then, that''s it? We just allow them to embarrass us like that?" Clark doubted too.


    "There is this lesson for us here. It says, how others treat us is a reflection of their attitude. They can be mature or immature, partial or impartial, and such. On the other hand, how we react towards their treatment is a reflection of our character. It''s always good to think before reacting. No matter how big this industry is, the road to success is narrow. One day, we will meet them. By that time, let''s settle what''s due," Sofia stated.


    "The preservation of our local culture is significant. The youth will benefit from it and they will learn to appreciate our customs and traditions. So, we should not stop their film production. As for this them looking down our capability... hmmmn, don''t think of that matter anymore.. Let''s go back to intersection street," Sofia declared.

 Chapter 311 - Lukes Visit Before The Wedding Day (1)

    Private Office of Lee Gaming Squad Founder - Brent Lee


    "Brent!? Goodness! Why are you still in your gaming office, bro? Your wedding is tomorrow, right?"


    Brent was busy signing piles of paper on his desk when a familiar voice sounded in his doorway. His hand abruptly halted scribbling his signature on the page and he slowly raised his head.  Seeing the guest''s face, he quickly pushed the papers to the side. "Luke, bro! What are you doing here? Have a seat, man!"


    The man named Luke was not part of his gaming circle of friends. He was in the business circle of district 7. Seeing that this man was visiting him in his gaming office, Brent somewhat felt strange.


    On the other side, Luke chuckled and shook his head, instantly refusing the offer of using his spare chair. "I won''t be long, bro. The others have told me to find you so that we can throw a bachelor''s party for you!"


    "Bachelor''s party? Hmmn... I can''t, bro! That''s not possible right now," Brent directly refused the idea.


    "Bro, it''s too early to reject this idea. We are still arranging the details of this party. You''ll just have to come! Tonight, we can celebrate!" Luke defended easily.


    "I''m serious, bro. It''s impossible," Brent sighed after his response.


    "The son of the most successful family in district 7 is denying himself of having a bachelor''s party? Come on, bro!" Luke insisted with full of confidence in his face.


    "Hahaha... Not that. We are busy, Luke. I swear, if I''m not busy, I would definitely celebrate such an occasion!" Brent smirked. His eyes moved in the direction of another small room within his office.


    "We? Who is your companion here?" Luke raised his brows and walked towards the room. He did not even ask for Brent''s permission.


    The man raised one of his leg and directly pushed the door open using his foot. When the door sprang open, he saw the figure of Brent''s bride. He instantly paled and took a big gulp.


    Grace, was sitting at a mini desk with a stack of papers on it. She appeared to be writing something on the paper.


    After the door was opened on her side, Grace looked at the man with a startled expression. But soon after, she was able to regain her composure and gave the man a confused look.


    "I believe, we haven''t met?" Grace''s tender voice sounded in the room.


    "Ohh... my!!! So sorry for the intrusion, lady Grace," Luke instantly apologized and closed the door. He then moved his feet closer to Brent''s side and playfully punch his shoulder. "What the heck, bro! I did not know that your bride would be here! You should have told me before I opened the door!"


    "You''re scared of my wife... but not me?" Brent joked and shook his head.


    "Your wife? Heh! Not all brides became wives, bro! What if someone would abduct lady Grace today to prevent her from marrying you?" Luke''s teased Brent openly.


    "Abduction? Who would be so bold to challenge me or her family? Hehehe... And even if someone really abducts Grace, she will still be my wife," Brent spoke with certainty. The fact that his agreement with Grace had been sealed long before the wedding, he was never worried about any unforeseen incidents.


    "Damn! You are not yet married, bro! Shameless! Fine! Still, she is the mayor''s daughter. How can I act so boldly in front of her and open that door without knocking?!" Luke exclaimed, hinting at his mistake.


    Even if Brent''s wedding was secretly arranged, only Sofia and their parents were aware of it. Not even Luke or the other close friend of Brent knew about it.


    "Grace is my wife. I just know it," Brent spoke calmly. "She is just going through some legal properties inside that room. I''m sure she was not disturbed by your boldness!"


    "Whatever! Anyway, I should tell you this... After learning that you are going to settle with the mayor''s daughter on such short notice, I still somehow think that maybe... you are just pranking me, bro! If it''s not published through formal press announcements, I will never be convinced!" Luke expressed.


    "Why don''t you just say it directly? My luck in everything seemed to be really on an auspicious level. Hehehe," Brent grinned. "I am born in a wealthy family. I have perfect parents. Now, I''ll have a perfect wife! It''s fine if you felt a fit of small jealousy about how lucky I am, bro!"


    "You are lucky indeed! That nice lady inside," Luke pointed to the door that he just pushed opened earlier and paused. "That girl is like a key made of diamond. All of us fantasize to have her and form a direct connection with the mayor''s family. You are really something... to snatch her in such a short period of time, bro... well done! You deserve my highest respect! As expected of the young master of the Lee family!" Luke commented with a hint of envy in his tone.


    "Hehehe," Brent could only stifle a laugh. Everyone in his business circle thought it was him who snatch Grace. But, in reality, it was the key made of diamond who delivered herself to him.


    Ironically, among the bachelors in their district, only Brent never considered having Grace as his wife. Since his Lee family was never interested in politics, Brent''s ideal girl was under the spectrum of gaming. He was also confused as to how he actually agreed to their arrangement!


    "Ahh... since bachelor''s party is not an option for you, let''s talk about business then. Even if you''ll treat me like a disturbance, I still need to discuss this," Luke initiated and finally took a seat.


    "What do you want to talk about? Be specific," Brent stated, maintaining an easy smile on his face. "Are you having a hard time with your company?"


    "Not that, bro! Don''t you know? There is something so important that is happening in intersection street today! An opening that seemed to have the biggest population of customers! It''s insane!" Luke started. The expression on his face turned serious.


    "You mean the Chronos company? If you are asking me if I''m worried about that business, I can tell you directly that I am not," Brent replied directly.


    "It''s too early for me to conclude something that had just started. But, I felt it''s really odd. Let me ask you a question. Be honest, why did you choose that business as the venue for your reception, tomorrow?" Luke questioned.


    "Bro, my wife is the daughter of our mayor. I have to give a face and hit two birds in one stone," Brent reacted. But in fact, this reasoning was actually from Sofia. He just conveniently copied her idea of seeing things differently.


    "Give face? That''s understandable that you are willing to burn some money for the reception. After all, you are the wealthiest family in this place. What I don''t understand is that, of all places... and of all business, why them? Don''t tell me that you took pity because the owners of that business are your fellow gamer?" Luke speculated.


    "You know the owner of the Chronos company?" Brent suddenly questioned.


    "Why? Of course, I know! Those kids who became champion in the last tournament," Luke answered right away.


    "Hmmn... Yeah, it''s them," Brent confirmed without thinking too much.


    "So, you are really sympathetic to those teens who had just defeated you in that tournament?" Luke questioned. He even emphasized how Sofia''s won became the loss of Brent''s squad.


    "They won because they are better. But, who knows? Maybe, I''ll get that victory in the regional tournament?" Brent giggled.


    "You are really sympathetic to them," Luke repeated.


    "Well, I am. But the reason why I choose their venue for the wedding reception was that I want to help my father-in-law without involving the Lee family in politics," Brent spoke. Then, he continued to put her signature.


    "What plans do you have? I think sooner or later, your family will be involved with politics," Luke stated.


    "Hmmn.... Imagine, the intersection street is the worst area in the district 7. Gang fights, fraternity hazing... that place was considered hopeless," Brent replied. "If this will be the venue of my reception, it would prove that my father-in-law is a great mayor. He is capable of transforming a terrifying place into one that is bustling and jubilant under his administration!" Brent explained.


    "Hmmn...  I see... That make sense," Luke spoke. The lines on his forehead suddenly creased more. "My father said something very amusing to me. It''s about his opinion towards that Chronos company."


    "If it''s amusing to you, then, I need to hear that," Brent beamed.


    "My father said, in all his lifetime, he had witnessed different figures of lions and tigers clashing in businesses... fierce competition is something common to our eyes. But... when it comes to the Chronos squad... he never expected to meet a pack of wolf," Luke started with a hint of severity in his voice.


    "Your father described the Chronos company as owned by pack of wolves?" Brent spoke softly.. He was totally taken a back by what he had heard from Luke. Pack of wolf! That''s rather amusing indeed!

 Chapter 312 - Lukes Visit Before The Wedding Day (2)

    "It''s my father''s assessment. He told me, just based on the Chronos company''s soft opening, such characteristics of a fierce tiger or aggressive lion is not enough to describe them at all. If there is anything else, it must be a pack of wolves." Luke extended his neck and openly took a peek at the documents on Brent''s desk. Yet, before he read the content of it, Brent was quick to throw a blank paper on it to cover the file.


    "..."


    Brent remained silent, trying to analyze Luke''s words deeply. For some strange reason, what he had imagined Sofia was not a wolf but an eagle. But, since Luke''s father was making such a description to Sofia, he wanted to see a different angle from his perspective.


    "Those people who can potentially compete with us... the tigers are capable of directly manipulating their opponent''s resources to defeat them. But, this Chronos squad is not manipulating any opponents in their market. Hmmn... If it''s the characteristics of those figures that we considered as lions, it seems like they are not also harming anyone or making underhanded moves to join the corporate world. So far, their trail is spotless! All I can see is that their ambition is intense! Their goal must be so high!" Luke added. He was rubbing his chin and looked at Brent straight in the eyes, searching for a reaction.


    "..."


    "Say something, bro. What do you think about my father''s view of this new business in intersection street?" Luke continued after not hearing Brent''s response.


    "Hmm, you''ve investigated them closely?" Brent finally spoke his thoughts. There was only a tone of casualness in his voice but he was actually worried about Sofia and her group.


    Luke''s family was influential overseas. Even if his family is not as successful as the Lee family in district 7, in terms of money and connection outside their country, the Lee family is way inferior to him. It was because the focus of their business is different. The Lee family always valued the local interest and choose to focus on their resources in district 7.


    "Investigated them? It''s not me! No, I never asked someone to look at their background," Luke was quick to deny with a shrug. "Brent, I''m not even curious about the Chronos company. But, after my father had a serious talk with me, I could not help but read all the files that my father had discovered. All of it... the leader Sofia, Claire, Stephen, Clark, and Joey. My father even tried to inquire about the Ching family of that boy named Stephen and the Zhang family too," he narrated and leaned back to his seat.


    "Your father is interested in them? It''s just their first day to operate their business... no, the day has not even ended yet, how did they manage to get your father''s attention?" Brent mumbled, feeling uneasy about what Luke had just admitted.


    "Intuition of an expert veteran. Hahaha..." Luke slightly laughed. "Bro, I''ve also asked my father how he managed to know that company. That''s what he answered! It''s his intuition!"


    "Hmmn... Bro, I can''t comment about your father''s opinion for the Chronos --" Brent started but suddenly looked down when the phone on his pocket vibrated. "Hold on a second, it''s them," he excused after seeing Clark''s message on his notification panel on the screen.


    Brent clicked the message and watched the video on it. His volume was on the 80% level so it was impossible for Luke not to hear the audio on it. The harsh tone of an unfamiliar voice erupted in the office.


    Brent frowned and look at the last message of Clark. However, it was a contrasting message sent after he received the video.


    Chronos_Clark: Bro, you''re sponsoring a film with this producer. We have an endorsement shooting in the same studio and had a conflict with her. Please clarify your friendship with our squad leader. They are making things difficult for us.


    Chronos_Clark: Bro, I''m wrong to send this video. Sofia told us to forget what happened and focused our energy on other stuff. Hope I did not disturb you.


    "What''s that?" Luke questioned and casually raised his hand to snatch the phone from Brent''s hand. Then, he watched the video of Sofia''s argument with producer Weng. "Where is this? Ahh... this--- they are mistreated?"


    "They have an endorsement shooting at the Jones Studio," Brent stated. His expression had turned dark.


    After watching the video, Luke repeatedly swiped his finger on the screen and replayed a certain scene on it.


    "What are you doing? Give me back my phone," Brent coldly said. He tried to reach it but the man moved his hand away and ignored him. Then, Luke continued to watch the scene five times. "Bro, that''s a personal message from them!"


    "I''m not reading the message!" Luke defended.


    "Then give it to me!" Brent demanded and impatiently tapped his palm on his desk.


    "I''m just double-checking something... Wow... just look at this part," Luke spoke and showed Brent the particular scene.


    It was the scene where producer Weng had told manager Lan to discard Sofia and her team.


    Coincidentally, at that time, Clark''s hand moved in Sofia''s direction too. Or perhaps, Clark subconsciously looked at Sofia without noticing that the camera of his phone was tilted and focused on Sofia''s angle and completely captured the quick shift of her expression.


    "This is the leader, right? Just watch that temper... here... here! Now it''s gone... just like that! Just a split-second change of deadly expression! If this is not recorded, I would never believe it! My father is right! They are a pack of wolves!" Luke concluded before handing back the phone to Brent. He also showed his arm and spoke again, "Look at the hair of my skin, damn... That expression is really scary! Bro, you should be worried about this Chronos company!"


    Brent took his phone and shook his head several times. "She''s furious. But if it''s me or you in her position, you would also be angry," Brent defended and started typing a reply to Clark''s message.


    Replied to Chronos_Clark: If CEO UNRIVALED changes her mind, just chat me, bro. Anytime is fine. Sorry for what happened. Tell her that there is someone who is closely following your company''s activity. See you!


    Luke remained silent and watched Brent solemnly type on his phone until he placed the phone on the side of his desk.


    "What else do you want to talk about, bro? Can''t you see? I have so many documents to deal with? If I don''t finish these documents, I won''t be able to have my honeymoon!" Brent spoke and gave the man a hint to go out.


    "You''re dismissing me? Bro, this matter about the Chronos squad is important. You can''t just ignore them!" Luke insisted and released a long sigh.


    "I''m dismissing you...? Hahaha, even if I want to dismiss you, bro, you won''t listen to me. I''m just telling you to leave so I can focus here," Brent shrugged and started reading on the documents again.


    Luke rolled his eyes dramatically and raised an eyebrow to Brent. "I know you, bro! Since you cannot avoid this discussion, you are using your honeymoon as an excuse so that you can change the topic! Hehehe... very good bro... very good!"


    "Fine! Tell me, what is it about the Chronos squad that you have discovered that made you and your father describe them as a pack of wolves? Greed? They are not greedy. I can assure you that," Brent scratched his head and conceded.


    "Heh! Open your social media. Look at their customers today, bro. If they are not greedy, just imagine how much profit are they making just for the first day of their operation!" Luke stated with a smirk.


    "They have many customers, that''s true..." Brent agreed.


    "Look, even you can tell that this number of customers is very abnormal for a business owner that is not even as famous as yours!" Luke quickly followed.


    "I''ve already anticipated that number of customers, bro. But, has it also occurred to you that they are feeding the entire district today? What they are serving are not just meals in exchange for profit. They are giving the citizens an opportunity to access unlimited food! What part of it is greedy?" Brent debated. He casually placed his pen on the side of his ear and crossed his arms in his chest.


    "But... ahhh, fine! It seems they are really on your good side! I won''t talk about them anymore," Luke exhaled with a slight irritation on his face. "I''m just showing you my concern as your friend. But, if you are defending them like that, then, it''s better for me to leave. If my doubts come true, don''t come to me and ask for help!"


    "They are my friends, bro. No matter what, they won''t harm me and the Lee family," Brent offered a grateful smile to Luke. Then, he slightly laughed when he recalled the video that Clark had sent to him. In the video, Sofia and Claire also mentioned that they were friends.... but the friendship was questioned by a man that he does not even recognize!

 Chapter 313 - Young Lady Lee

    "Do you think true friendship exists when it comes to the competition of this corporate world? You are so confident to call them friends," Luke suddenly said. He slowly raised his right hand and moved it near Brent''s face. Then, he snapped his thumb and middle finger together, as if trying to take Brent''s attention back to him. "Bro, I know you are capable. But to trust friendship bond within our circle... you have to wake up! My guess is, since the opening of the Chronos company is like a storm, making all citizens crazy about their service, then, they will sooner or later replace your position in district 7."


    Brent cleared his throat and stared at his friend''s face for a long time. He completely understood the mindset of this man as had a bad experience with his former friends. Luke''s family almost filed bankruptcy for their business in district 7. It was due to the betrayal of some so-called friends. Luckily, the Lee family had helped them recover.


    "Ehem! Do you mean to say that you don''t treat me like a true friend? Hmm?" Brent gave him a questioning look. He put one of his arms on his desk and supported his chin.


    A deep scowl quickly appeared on Luke''s face. "My family owe you a lot. Not only you are a true friend... you are like a family to me. Why do you even compare our relationship to the Chronos company owners?"


    "Hehe, you don''t know this... but, CEO UNRIVALED is like a family to me too," Brent easily spoke without any hit of reluctance in his tone. His eyes reflected a genuine sincerity while gazing at Luke.


    "Fine! Fine! I won''t disturb you anymore! I''ll take my leave," Luke exclaimed. "No need to send me out! I''ll see you tomorrow if the wedding day is not canceled, hehe..." he added a joke before stepping out of the room.


    Luke strode in the empty hallway towards the main door when he noticed Brent''s sister walking behind him.


    "Since when did you learn to listen to a private conversation, young lady Lee?" Luke questioned and halted his steps. He easily turned around and slightly bowed her head to the lady.


    "Mmn... Sofia and my brother Brent, their friendship bond is something you cannot relate to. You don''t have to overthink about it," Brent''s sister spoke. Her face did not show any sort of emotion and she only looked straight ahead of them.


    "I cannot relate to their friendship bond? Hehe, young lady Lee is right. I really don''t understand why your brother supported them? The money that he is willing to spend is not just a small figure!" Luke expressed his confusion right away. "And for some strange reason, I''m worried that this Chronos business is taking advantage of Brent."


    "Luke, you should know... As far as my brother is concerned, no one can take advantage of him unless he is willing to comply. It is a fact that Sofia is taking advantage of our family. Our father also told me about it and he reminded my brother so many times. But, my brother turned into the deaf ear." Brent''s sister slightly giggled. "Brent is distant and reserved. Even to me and his family, there is still an invisible wall that blocked us to get closer to one another. But, with Sofia, there is no boundary."


    "You''re kidding, young lady Lee? I know that Brent is a reserved person and values his privacy. But, what you just told me does not make sense at all!" Luke stated, completely confused about Brent''s attitude.


    "No, I''m not kidding," Brent''s sister answered in a soft tone. "It''s because, during Brent''s teenage years, the pressure he carried on his shoulder as the successor of our father''s business had overwhelmed him. He almost lost his courage to continue..."


    "Continue...?" Luke asked when Brent''s sister came into a full stop.


    "Continue to live..." she finished with a sad expression reflected in her eyes. "Only when he started playing online games... Brent found a new world. A world that which he can vent his frustrations. And it was Sofia who actually brought her and showed her the beauty of that world."


    "Re-Really?" Luke suddenly lost all the words that he wanted to say. He was left with lingering disbelief that such a man that he viewed to have a perfect life, actually had sad teenage years.


    "The values of our Lee family, the training and the education that Brent had to undergo... too much discipline and test to become the successor of our father. It was very difficult. He told me that at some point, he felt extremely tired of the high expectations that the entire Lee family had put on his shoulder. He had to do his best. And his best must be excellent! My brother had a hard life and Sofia had somehow redeemed him from all those ugly emotions that he felt. That is why, Brent will never doubt Sofia," Brent''s sister explained before she started walking ahead of Luke.


    "When I found out that they built a company, I thought that Brent was probably influencing Sofia to start a business. In this way, he could repay her for influencing him to play online games and learn the world of E-Sports. But, this assumption, I was completely wrong."


    "Young lady Lee, what do you mean?" Luke asked, feeling another level of curiosity about Sofia and Brent''s deep friendship.


    "It''s what I mean. I once made the mistake of thinking that Brent influenced Sofia. Because our father said that the tactics that Sofia deployed in her business were something that he had never seen before. Hehe, to sell table and charge the customers with hourly rates... According to my father, it''s a genius business plan," Brent''s sister stated. "Do you know what''s more interesting about Sofia, young master Luke?"


    "Please do tell me, young lady Lee? I felt like those investigators that my father hired were not doing their job properly. There were many aspects that they failed to uncover about this girl named Sofia," Luke playfully said. He resumed strolling and the two of them walked side by side towards the exit door.


    "It''s interesting that Sofia actually introduced lady Grace to Brent. And the next thing I know, he is getting married to her! But, I also looked into the other details and found out that supposedly, lady Grace''s fianc¨¦ is the heir of the Ching family. That man is one of Sofia''s members. His name is Stephen. It was an arrangement from both the master of the Ching family and the mayor."


    "Brent... is he aware of such information?" Luke questioned. "It seems like this is not just as intricate as what I have imagined. With what you told me, young lady Lee, I could tell that this Sofia is scheming. And she dared to take advantage of your family!"


    "Scheming? I''m telling you this not because I want you to be the enemy of Sofia. In fact, I want you to understand that Sofia is not as simple as she appears. And whilst you haven''t fully uncovered her mystery, it''s better if you make a connection with her than becoming her enemy," Brent''s sister commented and waved a hand to Luke. The two of them had reached the exit door and stepped out of the building.


    "I see. Thank you for reminding me, young lady Lee! I will surely remember your kind words. See you!" Luke bowed at her and quickly walked towards his car.


    When the man left, Brent''s sister released a deep sigh. Then, she turned towards the direction that she just walked, only to see the figure of Brent. He was actually standing there with an annoyed look on his face.


    "You talked too much, sis!" Brent spoke at her.


    "I can''t support and protect my crush? Hehe," the lady giggled and walked near him.


    "When did you arrive? Father said you will not attend my wedding because you''ll stay overseas for the entire month," Brent asked with a hint of suspicion in his tone.


    "Well, I don''t want to miss your wedding. So, I came back. That''s it," the lady shrugged her shoulder and sounded helpless.


    Brent smirked at her alibi and slightly laughed. "You are quick to return from overseas because Luke had returned. If the man finds out that it was you who begged father to help his family during their crisis, I wonder how he would react?"


    "Bro!!! You better not tell him!"


    "Yeah... the feeling is ugly once a secret is spilled by someone that we don''t want to know. So, you should have closed your mouth and did not reveal anything about Sofia and my friendship with her," Brent coldly stated.


    Realization slowly appeared in the lady''s face. Her eyes dilated and quickly recognized what Brent was pointing out. "I''m wrong to tell him about you and Sofia''s friendship. I''m sorry, bro. I won''t talk about it anymore."


    "Hmmph! You just have a crush on the man and you are already willing to give him all the secrets that the family has! You better examine your emotion and see if that is just a crush. If you want to marry him, tell me and I will arrange it with his family.." Brent started with a distant expression on his face.

 Chapter 314 - Members Taking Rest

    In the intersection street, the roadside had completely turned into a parking space for the customers of Chronos company. Cars come and go from one side to another. The once empty street turned into the busiest one in the entire district 7.


    "Young master Clark, I may not be able to park anywhere near here," Clark''s driver announced while double parking near the Chronos company. "We''ve managed to park this morning. But now, it''s not impossible."


    "I''ve never imagined that the people in district 7 owned so many cars! How come the streets just a few days ago were almost empty?" Sofia supplied while looking in her left and right direction. Not only cars but there were a lot of press media that were filming the busy street.


    "I''m surprised too, Miss Sofia," Clark''s driver responded.


    Even so, Sofia knew one thing about the situation. The citizens of District 7, for a strange reason, were there just to join the hype. Because of the sudden popularity of their dining business, everyone wanted to have an experience of it.


    "Just drop me here," Sofia stated and faced Clark. "Do you have other errands today?"


    "No, I don''t, Sof. I want to stay with the group for the entire day," Clark shook his head and smiled.


    "How about the others? You have plans?" Sofia looked at Stephen and Joey. Both also shook their heads.


    "It''s now 3 PM. But we''ve experienced tiring hours. It''s okay for us to rest and call it a day," Sofia added, giving consideration to how exhausting their day had been already.


    Clark''s driver could not help but eyed Sofia with an approving expression on his face.


    "Miss Sofia is really a dependable squad leader," he complimented directly.


    "I just know that we are tired," Sofia softly replied. Not only physically, but they were also emotionally tired. Sofia may be able to adjust to what had happened to them in Jone''s Studio. But, the four teens would need time to feel better from the maltreatment.


    With Sofia''s suggestion, everyone felt relaxed. They stretched their arms and legs and even moved their shoulder.


    "Yes, let''s call it a day! I suddenly want to play basketball. Do you want to play, bro?" Joey asked Stephen.


    "Yeah, sure. We can go to the public covered court and see if we can play!" Stephen responded with enthusiasm.


    "Sure! It''s been a while since I played in court," Joey chuckled while rubbing his hands together.


    "You guys won''t sleep?" Claire inquired and turned in the direction of Joey and Stephen. ''How could these two play basketball when Sofia told us to rest?''


    "Resting does not necessarily need sleeping. As long as you feel relaxed with what you are doing," Sofia spoke after sensing Claire''s confusion.


    "Ohh... right. How about we play online?" Claire suggested.


    "I think, I''ll go home and take another hour of sleep first," Clark muttered in between a yawn. "I''ll chat after I wake up to play online with you, Claire."


    "Okay. I''ll go back to my unit and sleep too," Claire gently replied.


    "Then, the four of you, go and relax for the rest of the day. I''ll check sister Jing first. Let''s continue to communicate in our group chat," Sofia said and lift her right hand to brush her bangs to the side of her ears.


    The van that they were riding had come to a full stop, double parking on the road. Before Sofia went out of the car, she looked at Stephen and Joey. "I''ll probably watch your basketball game later."


    "Mmn," Stephen grinned and nodded his head.


    "I''ll bring the food that we did not eat for lunch," Joey stated after remembering that the food containers were placed inside his bag.


    "Okay. I''m going now. Drive safe!" Sofia said and stepped out of the car. Her members watched her retreating figure until they lost sight of her.


    "Clark, you don''t want to play basketball?" Joey invited Clark.


    "I''ll pass. Maybe next time," Clark replied. "My eyes really want to sleep," he added and put his head on Claire''s shoulder.


    "Okay. Then, it''s just me and Stephen. Let''s play with random players there," Joey mumbled.


    After Sofia left the car, the driver quickly speed up and drove away. Minutes passed and Clark seemed to have fallen asleep using Claire''s shoulder.


    "I''ll take a turn towards the public covered court for Mr. Stephen and Mr. Joey. Then, I''ll drive young lady Claire to her apartment. Is this arrangement fine, young master Clark? Or do you have other instructions?" the driver inquired after hearing no orders from him.


    "Hmm... that''s cool," Clark muttered without moving an inch. Claire tilted her head too in a comfortable position and slowly closed her eyes.


    "This level of public display of affection is suffocating me... Uncle, maybe you can drop us here?" Joey stated while gazing at Clark and Claire.


    The two only giggled and ignored him while Stephen patted Joey''s head with a helpless expression on his face.


    Meanwhile, Sofia made her way to the entrance with a crowd gathering around.


    She had been muttering "Excuse me, please excuse me," several times.


    "Girl, fall in line behind, please! We came here first!" one of the customers suddenly called. Then whispers started to bubble around.


    Sofia did not pay much attention to them as the surrounding was already noisy. And she was not expecting that the subject of their talk would actually be her.


    After Sofia continued to walk, a hand suddenly grabbed behind. It was a female that looked like she was in her early twenties.


    When Sofia turned around and faced her, the lady immediately let go of her arms.


    "Miss, you are causing a ruckus. There is a line if you want to enter inside. Wait for your turn. We are also scheduled for 3 PM tables," the female explained.


    "Ah... no, so sorry... I apologize," Sofia quickly gazed at the people that glared at her. "I''m not a customer. I''m also part of the staff."


    "Ohh... Then, go and quickly help them clean the tables so we can enter now," the first customer demanded.


    Sofia bowed her head to the first customer and smiled at the lady that held her wrist.


    "Sorry if I hold your arm... I did not know you are one of the employees there. And they are complaining," the lady also apologized before Sofia could turn around and walked away from her.


    "It''s okay. I''ll go inside," Sofia excused and swiftly moved her feet to the entrance.


    Jing Jing was surprised to see Sofia entering the dining area. She quickly put her phone in her pocket and walked towards her. "Welcome back, Miss Sofia! How''s the endorsement shooting?"


    "We have finished it, sister Jing. How are the customers so far?" Sofia inquired too.


    "It''s okay... no troubles while you are gone, Miss Sofia. The next schedule is about to enter. The staff is just cleaning the tables," Jing immediately reported.


    "Okay. Great!" Sofia mumbled and went to the kitchen area.


    The moment she entered, she saw Danny chopping onions while another staff stirring a pot of soup. There were also two others who were wiping the plates on the sink.


    All the staff glanced at her and offered a respectful bow after recognizing that it was Sofia. And Jing Jing also walked behind her.


    "This is the fourth time that we refill the soup, Miss Sofia," Danny stated after chopping the onions.


    "It''s okay," Sofia replied and took a chair. She casually sat down and stretched her legs. Her hands were also placed on the table.


    Jing Jing watched her silently with a concerned look in her eyes. ''Miss Sofia must be tired from the photoshoot.''


    "The others had gone to take rest. I did not imagine that endorsement activity is that energy-consuming," Sofia giggled when she noticed that Jing Jing was staring at her.


    "Do you want to eat, Miss Sofia?" Jing Jing asked.


    "Yes, I actually return to have a proper meal, sister Jing," Sofia admitted with a playful grin on her lips. "Stephen was supposed to eat with me too. But, Joey invited him to play basketball."


    "They play basketball?" Jing Jing looked surprised. She easily grabbed some plates and scooped food. Danny also helped her put food in front of Sofia.


    "Yes. Joey is a basketball player in the school before he decided to play E-Sports. It was because he had an injury and was no longer allowed to play until he got healed," Sofia replied and started to put food on her plate.


    "I see. No wonder they have an athletic body," Jing Jing commented.


    "Only Joey played basketball school tournament. As for Stephen, I think he plays a different sport to have his physique," Sofia stated.


    "You don''t know, Miss Sofia? I heard that the Ching family is good at taekwondo. Perhaps, Stephen practiced that sport,"  Jing Jing made a wild guess.


    "Taekwondo...? I''m not sure. The taekwondo players that I''ve known are calm and collected. Stephen... on the other hand, is easy to react to using violence. Maybe it''s a different sport. I''ll ask him if there is a chance," Sofia mumbled.


    Not long after, she focused her attention on eating.. And Jing Jing did not speak a word anymore to avoid disturbing her.

 Chapter 315 - Acquisition For Parking Space Plan

    Danny carefully placed another plate and utensils across Sofia for Jing Jing. He then gestured a respectful bow to them before walking back to the counter table and started slicing tomatoes.


    "Thank you, Danny!" Jing Jing expressed with a surprised expression on her face. But soon, she also took her spoon and put some portion of food on her plate.


    "You''re welcome, Ms. Jing Jing," Danny answered while arranging all the ingredients that he had chopped.


    The chopping and click-clacking sound from the sink disappeared and other staff exited the kitchen area, carrying the clean plates and glasses. Only the three of them left, minding their own business.


    Half an hour later, Sofia finished her food. She silently gazed at Jing Jing and noticed that the lady was casually eating a small portion of food from time to time while sorting the list of their customers'' reservations. ''Perhaps, she was eating out of courtesy to Danny''s gesture?'' Sofia smiled and wiped the side of her mouth.


    "Sister Jing, when we arrived, the van could no longer find a parking space. The cars outside can cause heavy traffic in the street," Sofia opened as she grabbed a glass of water from the side. She then took a sip and carefully place the glass back on the table.


    Jing Jing raised her head and put her phone on the table. She made a momentary pause to consider Sofia''s concern. There was really never serious traffic in the entire district 7. Hence, she did not think it was a problem if their customer would park their car on the side of the road.


    "Heavy traffic? Hmm... Miss Sofia, when I was still in the press company, sometimes, we also park our service vehicle on the side of the road just like that. There is not much traffic anyway and other businesses normally do this," Jing Jing finally stated. Since their district is not developed yet, it was impossible for her to imagine what Sofia meant by heavy traffic congestion.


    "I see," Sofia made a consideration. She did remember when she went around the business in the district that it was rare to see official private parking spaces near them.


    But shortly after, she could not also reconcile the idea of letting their customer follow what was being practiced in their district. She took a deep breath and clasped her hand. Then, she continued, "However, sister Jing, it''s better to check if we can acquire the lots nearby so we can provide a proper parking space for the customers. We should take responsibility for this matter. If any accidents occur, we will be held liable. It may cause us troubles."


    "Uhhm... troubles? What could go wrong? They are just parking on the side of the road, not in the center. I think it''s fine, Miss Sofia. And it''s their car... we have no liability on it," Jing Jing reasoned. The liability she meant was also understood by Sofia. What Jing Jing meant was simply, since they are car owners, it''s their responsibility to find a parking space.


    "Though it''s not our company cars, customers will still prefer what are convenient for them. Parking space is necessary for us. As for the accidents... I''m just worried if something like a fire or medical-related emergency happened near our area, the privately-owned cars outside would hamper the road," Sofia supplied, expressing more of how serious the impact would be if they don''t provide appropriate space for parking.


    "Ah! E-Emergency? T-That makes sense! After all, this is the intersection street. This kind of thing is indeed possible in this area." Jing Jing nodded her head several times. Her expression turned serious. Sofia did not need to convice her further as she also understood the reputation of intersection street.


    "That''s right. Sister Jing, please help me process our acquisition of parking space," Sofia expressed. When it comes to this matter, only Jing Jing is convenient to transact serious business on behalf of their company as she was older than all of them to sign legal papers.


    "Miss Sofia, this is indeed an urgent concern for the business and cannot be neglected. Don''t worry, I will handle the parking space. I''ll check if there are property owners around here that are willing to sell us their lot," Jing Jing affirmed.


    "Thank you, sister Jing. Leave the customer''s reservation to me. I will do that in the meantime," Sofia said. She reached her arm on Jing Jing and opened her palm. Jing Jing complied and put her phone in Sofia''s hand.


    "I''m just arranging the reservation schedule because this list is not yet in order. If you don''t understand, you can just leave this to me once I come back. I''ll go and see the property owners first, Miss Sofia," Jing Jing excused.


    "Finish your food first, sister Jing. No rush, hehehe," Sofia chuckled after seeing there was still a portion of chicken on Jing Jing''s plate.


    "Ahh... yes, yes," Jing Jing slightly laughed and grabbed her fork. She directly took the piece of chicken and chew it. Her movement was fast that Sofia could not help but slightly raised her eyebrows while watching her.


    "Sister Jing, slow down. The matter of parking space may be urgent. But... j-just eat properly, sister Jing. If you choked in your food, I can''t drive you to the hospital. I have no driver''s license," Sofia playfully said. But, there was an obvious concern laced in her tone.


    "Hahaha, Miss Sofia, don''t joke like that. I''m fine. You know in press work we eat like this because we have to go live most of the time," Jing Jing easily wiped her lips and stood from her seat. "I''ll go ahead and see if I can find an available lot for sale around."


    Sofia nodded her head and gazed at their plates on the table. She had a sympathetic look on Jing Jing''s back as the lady walked towards the exit. ''At this time, sister Jing has a wildness and carefree character. But, during my past life, I have never seen this side of her. She was always poised and formal,'' Sofia mentally thought.


    "Miss, I''ll clean your table," a staff suddenly emerged and quickly took away the empty plates.


    Sofia offered a formal smile towards the staff before she shifted her eyes to Jing Jing''s phone. She double-tapped the screen and the screensaver photo quickly lit up.


    The reservation list was just on the notepad but it was not hard for her to understand the pattern that Jing Jing started. The first entry displayed on the screen was the date of the reservation and then it followed the name of the customers and the corresponding table they were reserved.


    With the list in her hand, Sofia soon immersed herself in synchronizing the reservations. Such data in front of her was just a trivial matter in her eyes. It only took her 10 minutes for her to finish everything.


    Upon finalizing the list, Sofia could not help but think of the outcome of their shooting. Her mind slowly wandered to the possible outcome of the unfinished photo shoot.


    Even though the salary of their squad was already fixed in their contract and it was forwarded by manager Lan, she was still worried about it.


    Sofia, for some strange reason, was extremely worried about the overall result of their shooting.


    Perhaps, it was because her mindset is on business that she could relate to the overall outcome of the endorsement to the shoe company. It was not just for the sake of them as endorsers and gaining their money. She really wants to product to sell and make a profit.


    ''Our photo shoot was brief. Hopefully, the result will still give the positive effect of the profit return of the shoe company.''


    While Sofia was in a daze, Danny walked towards her. He waved a hand near her face to get her attention.


    "Miss Sofia, I have finished an improvised small garden at the back. Do you want to see it?" Danny said after noticing that Sofia was no longer paying attention to the phone in her hand.


    "The garden? Yes, let''s see! Hehe," Sofia quickly put aside her worry and followed Danny.


    "It''s better to place them like this. Once they grow roots, I will replant them," Danny stated. There were seeds and stems of vegetables on different plastic that he improvised as pots.


    Sofia smiled at his arrangement. ''To think that one of the leaders of the Double Sigma fraternity is capable of doing agriculture,'' she mentally commented.


    "Well done, Danny! I was also raised in the mountains and saw my grandparents do this to our vegetables," Sofia complimented.


    "I---" Danny muttered only to stop and did not finish his sentence.


    Sofia recognized the combination of nostalgia and melancholy on his face. She could tell that there was something that was in his mind. But, he seemed uncomfortable sharing his thoughts.


    "Well done! " Sofia repeated. Her tone was full of understanding. Just like her situation, some pasts are not meant to be spoken. As long as his fraternity won''t plot and harm her group, Sofia would not also force them to open up to her.


    "Thank you, Miss Sofia," Danny whispered his response and released a sigh.. With one last glance, they both returned to the kitchen and did not speak a word anymore.

 Chapter 316 - Maxwells Parking Space Idea

    The sun started to set while Jing Jing also set forth to execute her goal. She exited their company and walked a few steps away when out of nowhere, customers started to whisper around. She was recognized warmly by most of the customers who were gathering outside. However, they were suppressing the volume of their voices and were reluctant to call her.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, hello!" one middle-aged female finally waved a hand and beamed at her. Her voice was louder than the whispers around them.


    Jing Jing turned and faced in her direction. The woman was not her acquaintance. But, with her previous job, she was already used to citizens calling her in public. She slightly bowed her head and returned a small smile to the woman.


    This one shout from the woman caused everyone to look at Jing Jing. Soon after, people were chatting their greeting and compliments to her.


    "Ohh... Ms. Jing Jing, I haven''t seen you on TV these days! I miss watching your news and scope!"


    "Ms. Jing Jing, are you going to cover this business too? I see other press companies filming there."


    "How are you, Ms. Jing Jing? Are you here to dine too?"


    "The intersection street is really famous today. Even Ms. Jing Jing is here! Maybe celebrities are also booking tables but we just happened to snatch their first day? Hahaha...."


    Jing Jing only waved her hand to the customers and did not respond to the chattering. She had set her mind to prioritize looking for an available property nearby.


    She continued to walk along the line of cars parking on the side of the road and scanned the area. The people looked at her for a moment before they also focused on their own chatter.


    "Miss Sofia is really perceptive and knows the best for the business. With this many cars on the side of the road, it will indeed become problematic," Jing Jing whispered after seeing the cars that had parked in the area. Her eyes wandered from every other establishment. She walked a little bit farther and even crossed the street to see for available lot property to buy.


    But after the long searching, she could not see any for-sale property around!


    "This is not right. How could there be no property for sale in here? This place is supposed to have many closed businesses due to the bad reputation of the area. But now, I can''t see any sign," Jing Jing pondered and paused her steps. She looked at the sky that had begun to turn reddish-orange while the sun was setting. "The sky is beautiful!" Jing Jing absentmindedly said, withdrawn at the allure of the sunset.


    "Jing Jing!" A familiar voice pulled her out of reverie. Jing Jing turned around and saw her two close friends, Rica and Maxwell, walking in her direction. Rica was wearing a red blazer and jeans. Maxwell is also wearing a maroon coat and jeans. Both also had a pair of white shoes.


    "OH!!! Hi! Didn''t expect to see you both here! Wow, the couple outfit looks so dashing!" Jing Jing''s expression quickly changed to excitement. She complimented the two right away after recognizing that they were in a matching outfit.


    "Hahaha, yeah... Thanks, Jing Jing! The social media is focused in this place for an entire day. It''s crazy! Since I have no work, I''ve brought Maxwell with me to eat here!" Rica beamed. "Well, I did not expect to see you here, too. How have you been?"


    "Right... I''m kind of looking for a property to buy within this area," Jing Jing expressed. She raised her hand and pointed the directions in a circular motion.


    "You''re buying a property?" Maxwell softly asked.


    "Yes, the lot property actually," she specified. Since there are several kinds of properties, such as cars, homes, buildings, she realized that it would be helpful if she made it clear to Maxwell.


    "Hmm.. you want a parcel of land property," Maxwell muttered. "I''ll see if I can contact someone."


    Maxwell owned most properties in district 7. Even the private subways beneath the street were controlled by his family. However, because of the reputation of the intersection street, he avoided this area. His interest was mostly around the place where he could also gain money easily.


    "It seems that no one is selling property here. Especially that this place becomes the center of attraction in this district!" Rica stated. She was searching on the internet for the availability of properties that are currently for sale. But, when she entered the location of the intersection street, there was a zero result.


    "Yeah... I checked it too. I also walked around. But, the last time I inspected this place... there are several properties that are actually for sale. Now, there is no single trace of it," Jing Jing subconsciously pouted her lips and furrowed her brows.


    "You inspected this place?" Rica questioned, she did not even conceal the curiosity in her expression when facing her directly.


    Jing Jing giggled. "I did not mention this to the two of you... but, my new job is that company that you booked for dinner. Hehe. I sorted the list of reservations just now. And the parcel of land that I wanted to buy is for the parking space of the business."


    "Wait... Are you the one that I talked to when I made a reservation?" Rica suddenly questioned and blinked her eyes a couple of times.


    Jing Jing also tilted her head and tried to recall. But then, she shook her head and smiled at her. "I think... No, it''s not me. If it was me, I would definitely recognize your voice. Silly. There is another person answering the calls..."


    It was not Sofia that was in her mind. It was Heiz. She had asked Heiz''s help last time to answer and list those who would contact her phone for a reservation. Thus, it was the only plausible explanation as to why she did not know that Rica had also reserved in their business.


    Rica glance at Maxwell and slightly laughed. "That''s right. I was indeed a different person who catered me."


    Maxwell was still busy with his phone, but, upon hearing Rica''s claim, he paused and looked at her in the eyes.


    Such expression was not hard for Jing Jing to understand since they were close friends.


    Based on their eye contact, Jing Jing could tell that Rica was not the person who reserved their schedule. It was Maxwell.


    Strange. But, she did not think too much of it and was still worried about how to accomplish her task.


    "It''s not surprising that property owners near here would stop selling. In business, competition is very aggressive. Where the profit is, there the business crammed. It''s either some big figures had already contacted those property owners to buy their property. Or the property owners wanted to continue making business here," Maxwell solemnly explained to Jing Jing.


    "Hmm..." Jing Jing released a sigh. "That makes sense. But, with so many vehicles on the side of the road, we are obligated to find a parking space to avoid traffic," Jing Jing added.


    "I have learned a new way of providing parking space. But, this is not yet used in this district. Do you want to hear my idea, Jing?" Maxwell initiated and kept his phone inside the pocket of his coat.


    "Ahh... you are here on a date. Hehe, I don''t want to disturb the two of you," Jing Jing politely declined.


    "It''s fine! My boyfriend rarely offers his idea, Jing Jing! Go for it! Our schedule is 6 PM. We just want to see the hype and fall in line earlier," Rica insisted.


    "Then, thank you so much! This parking space is actually an urgent project of the business. And if there is no property available to buy, I''ll be grateful for an alternative," Jing Jing expressed with genuine gratitude in her eyes.


    "This idea... I''m not sure if you are willing to follow it because there are possible dangers of it too. And we are still trying to test if it''s applicable. But, as you know, my family builts subways, right?" Maxwell started.


    "Hmm. What kind of idea is it?" Jing Jing directly urged Maxwell to continue. Rica also gazed at him with an expectant look on her face.


    "The idea is to build a parking space below the ground of your property," Maxwell easily replied.


    "B-Below?" Jing Jing gasped and felt worried. "That sounds dangerous."


    "It is... well, that is why we are in the process of testing if the idea is applicable," Maxwell expressed and gave her a sympathetic smile. "If you can''t find a property to purchase, then, just reconsider my idea. But, if there is a property available, you can forget what I said. I agree that it is dangerous."


    "Then..." Jing Jing contemplated for a few seconds. "I will see if my boss is willing to accept your idea, Maxwell. Is it possible to contact you if the boss will agree to it?"


    "Of course!" Maxwell politely smiled at Jing Jing.. Rica also nodded her head and gently looped her hands on his shoulder.

 Chapter 317 - Alley Of Intersection Street

    "Jing Jing, we will fall in line there," Rica spoke and gently tugged Maxwell''s coat.


    "Okay," Jing Jing casually mumbled and glanced at the people around.


    "You should eat with us too? What do you think, hon?" Maxwell suddenly invited her and simultaneously asked his girlfriend.


    "Maybe next time if there is an opportunity. I still have to finish my task," Jing Jing immediately refused.


    "Yeah, Jing Jing is working in the dining business. It''s not convenient for her to bother her right now, hon. Next time if she is free. Hehe," Rica forced a smile and giggle.


    "Mmn. Next time! Hehe, I''ll just walk around a bit and see the other areas. Enjoy your meal!" Jing Jing maintained the curl in her lips and waved them goodbye.


    Rica raised both of her eyebrows twice before looking Maxwell straight in the eye. "Let''s go?"


    She pointed the area where the line was now getting longer as more customers started to arrive.


    "Yeah," Maxwell simply responded with the same smile on his lips and nodded his head. He then slightly bowed at Jing Jing before they started walking towards the group of customers.


    Jing Jing did not waste her time too. After they exchanged goodbye, she wandered to another location.


    She turned into a corner and reached an alley. In there, she saw six men, about her age. They were sitting on a wooden bench and were having an animated conversation. All of them have cigarettes in their hands and the lingering silver smoke from it surrounded them.


    The minute Jing Jing''s eyes fall on the group, she instantly realized that she had really gone far!


    "A fine lady is visiting our alley?" one of the men asked and started taking a slow step towards her.


    When Jing Jing looked at the man, she did notice that there was neon paint vandal on the walls behind them that said, "ALLEY OF INTERSECTION STREET."


    Jing Jing suddenly felt her heart raced. She gathered her hand around her chest and tried to calm herself.


    "Sorry to bother. I was looking for direction when I made a turn to your alley," Jing Jing spoke, still trying her best to remain calm. She subconsciously patted her pocket to check her phone only to remember that she left it to Sofia.


    "Direction? Hehe... where do you want to go?" the man questioned and finally stopped walking after reaching a few steps away from her.


    "I-I''m looking for the---" Jing Jing paused and carefully thought of a good reason. Out of nowhere, the face of the two Double Sigma Fraternity leaders flashed in her mind. "I''m looking for the leader of the Double Sigma Fraternity."


    "Which leader?" another man questioned. Obviously, they knew the fraternity well.


    Jing Jing secretly took a deep breath. Then, she replied, "The man named Danny."


    "What are you to Danny?" the first man to approach her inquired. He threw the cigarette butt in the ground and stepped on it. Then, he stared at Jing Jing as if trying to see through her pretense. "I can guide you to the fraternity house of the double sigma," he added.


    "Raul, the double sigma fraternity is not in their fraternity house. I passed there when I woke up and did not notice anyone there," another man spoke.


    The first man furrowed his brows. "Really? Then, it''s no use. Just give us money and you are free to go." The man called Raul demanded.


    "I--- " Jing Jing suddenly sensed a dreadful feeling. When she exited the Chronos company, she did not bring anything. Her initial plan was just to wander near and decided to leave her things on the front desk.


    She looked at the faces of the six men, one by one for a few seconds. "I have no money too. I''m here to collect money." She made up.


    "C-Collect money? Ha! You want to collect money... from Danny?" Raul questioned with a tinge of amusement in his tone.


    Meanwhile, the sound of bark laughter echoed the alley. The other five men just remained seated on the bench rubbed their stomachs while laughing wildly.


    "HAHAHA... Raul, this is funny! HAHAHA..."


    "This girl came here to collect money from the double sigma fraternity? Lady, who gives you the guts to do this? Even the six of us would not dare," another man expressed after collecting his composure.


    "Very well then, excuse me," Jing Jing spoke and turned around. But before she could start walking back to their establishment, Raul already held her shoulder with his right hand!


    Jing Jing instantly felt cold. She was stiffened by the man''s gesture and wanted to scream. But, for some reason unknown to her, she had lost all her strength to open her mouth and yell even a single word.


    "Fine lady, you just came into our territory. How about you stay and hang out with us for a while? Hehe," Raul mumbled and smirked at her. He circled at Jing Jing and examined her from head to foot.


    Jing Jing fidgeted. She took a big gulp and closed her eyes. All her courage somehow vanished. Even her legs felt limp.


    Danny''s voice suddenly sounded a few steps away from her while her eyes were still closed...


    "Ms. Jing, have you seen a potential parking space?" The question sounded so casual and the man did not even pay attention to the six men in the area.


    Jing Jing''s shoulder trembled before she opened her eyes and glared at Danny. "Give me the money!" she blurted in such a way that it came out as a demand.


    Danny turned silent and finally looked at the six men. "Brothers, you have money?" he asked them softly. But his expression and aura were enough for Raul to take a step back.


    Jing Jing quickly took the opportunity to step forward and walk behind Danny.


    "Leave them! They have no money," she mumbled. She did not even know why she was reacting that way. However, before she could think of what she was doing, her hand already held Danny''s uniform and pulled the man away from the place.


    Danny was still facing Raul when he felt the gentle force of Jing Jing pulling him. Without a word, he turned around and follow her lead, leaving the six men dumbstruck by what they had just witnessed.


    "No way! Someone really acted like high and mighty to Danny!?" one of the men questioned after the sight of the two were gone.


    "Hehehe... If I did not see it, I would never believe it if someone makes gossiped about it! Damn! There was only one explanation of it! Hehehe..." Raul spoke and released a long sigh. Earlier, when he was Danny, he even subconsciously stopped his breath.


    "That lady--- good thing we did not do anything to her!"


    "Raul, what are you saying? What explanation?"


    "Only a great love can control a man like those double sigma fraternity! Heh! It''s obvious, Danny is in love with that lady!" Raul expressed with certainty.


    "IN LOVE!!!? HUH?" His companions repeated with full of disbelief. Initially, they looked curious about what he was about to speak to them. But, after hearing his word, they suddenly had a dark expression on their faces.


    "Just where did you get that idea, Raul? If the double sigma fraternity hears you say that, they will pull out your tongue and feed it to the street dogs! You can''t slander them!"


    "Raul, you scared the lady. The double sigma fraternity will surely hunt you!"


    The man listened to these two companions while shaking his head several times. "Well, you also saw it. If it is not love... then, what it is? HAHAHA... The lady is familiar... I think I have seen her before. I just could not remember where."


    "Raul, you are really something," one of the men stated before they decided to drop it. "It''s better to leave here first. Who knows if the double sigma members would come to look for you! They might include me by mistake. See you around!"


    One after another, the men left in haste. But, Raul only watched them and sat back on the wooden bench. He does not seem to be bothered by the threats that his companions were spouting.


    On the other side, Jing Jing finally released Danny''s uniform after they arrived near their establishment.


    "I almost lost my soul back there! What the heck... it''s my first time to meet such scary people. Their aura is really dark. They are capable of doing shady stuff. Don''t go there," Jing Jing rambled her words as she released a sigh of relief.


    "Ms. Jing?" Danny finally called her. There was complete confusion written on his face. He could not understand the money or Jing Jing''s behavior either. In fact, as he examined his face, he could not read any fear on it. It was weird to see that there was only panic in her tone but she seemed not scared.


    "Ahh... Danny, it''s good that you are here! But, why are you out?" Jing Jing finally recovered and asked him.


    "Miss Sofia told me to look for you. You have gone for more than an hour, Ms. Jing.. Miss Sofia is worried," Danny politely answered.

 Chapter 318 - Assumptions

    "Hmm? Has it been an hour already? Then, let''s go back!" Jing Jing spoked and pulled Danny again.


    He was almost dragged by her. Fortunately, Danny was tall and had long legs to match Jing Jing''s quick steps easily. But after a minute of walking, he abruptly stooped causing Jing Jing to stop too.


    "What is it?" Jing Jing looked behind with a worried expression on her face. She was concerned that Raul and his group may have chased them with malicious interest. At this point, it seemed as if Jing Jing had forgotten the infamous reputation of Danny too. All she cared was for them not to be troubled by the group that she encountered.


    "Ms. Jing, what are you looking there?" Danny inquired and looked in the direction where she was facing.


    "I''m checking if they are following us! Those people had surely scared me to death!" she stated with a dramatic expression on her face. Her eyes wandered but Danny could only see a glint of wildness in her eyes.


    "What did they do? Ms. Jing, perhaps what you felt in not fear? But the rush of excitement for such uncommon experience with your encounter earlier?" Danny pointed out. No matter how he looked at her, and even if Jing Jing claimed to be scared by those people, he never saw the frightened expression on her face.


    "No way! I was too scared that my heart almost stopped beating!" Jing Jing insisted.


    Danny deliberately raised one of his eyebrows. ''Ms. Jing surely likes to exaggerate,'' he secretly commented.


    "I don''t seem to see the trace of fear in your face? Maybe you misunderstood what you felt?" he directly stated.


    Jing Jing scratched her head and formed her lips into a thin line. She subconsciously pouted and was unable to form a word to respond to the man.


    Seeing that she was speechless, Danny took a step to the side and sighed. "Ms. Jing, in fact, Miss Sofa wanted to help you check the location of the property too. Could you tell me where is it?"


    "About the property... I can''t see any for sale around here. I will talk to Miss Sofia about it," Jing Jing said and started walking on her own. This time, she did not pull Danny and left the man standing in his spot.


    Yet, before their distance became farther, Danny started walking and reaching on her side. They walked together in silence.


    "Jing Jing!" Rica''s voice sounded from the crowd of people falling in line. This was the second time that the lady had called her. It was a bit unusual for when they parted earlier, Rica emphasized that she was still working in the dining business and they would not disturb her anymore.


    Still, Jing Jing waved a hand at the couple but did not intend to chat. She just gave them a friendly smile and continued to walk.


    However, to Jing Jing''s surprise, Rica intended to have a conversation with her again.


    "EHEM! Jing Jing, why don''t you introduce us to the fine man beside you?" Rica initiated. Her voice was loud enough that it also attracted the other press groups that were filming across the road.


    "Uhm... W-Well, this is Danny. We work under the same boss," Jing Jing ambiguously replied.


    "Hehe, I''m Rica and this is my boyfriend, Maxwell. We are Jing Jing''s close best friends!" Rica introduced herself before Jing Jing could do it.


    Danny did not speak a word. He just slightly nodded his head to acknowledge them. The expression on his face somehow turned distant and cold.


    When Jing Jing noticed the man''s unfriendly expression, she was finally reminded of his reputation. Jing Jing raised her hand and hit her temple. ''Which spirit had possessed my body to make me act boldly towards Danny!''


    Now, she just reflected her emotions earlier was actually a bit strange too. ''How could I be scared with that group of men when they were even afraid of the Double Sigma Fraternity!? I even dragged Danny out thinking that it was the best thing to do to avoid getting hurt!''


    Jing Jing was completely immersed with her reflection that her eyes just stared blankly in space. Rica raised her hand and waved near her face. Then, she casually pushed Jing Jing''s shoulder and spoke in a teasing tone, "Jing Jing, you seemed to be caught in a deep trance? Hehe... what are you thinking so deeply?"


    "Ahahaha... I am reflecting on my mistake! Rica, Maxwell, we will go inside first. There is still some important matter that we have to do!" Jing Jing quickly replied and dashed forward without waiting for Rica to respond.


    Danny just eyed them before he also walked behind Jing Jing.


    "If that man is Jing Jing''s new boyfriend... I don''t approve of him! He is not friendly at all!" Rica snickered and complained to Maxwell.


    Maxwell just look at the back of Danny and stared at him until he entered the establishment. "He is indeed a character."


    "Hon, what do you mean? Do you know him?" Rica curiously, perhaps just making a random conversation between them. They had been standing outside and had lost all the interesting topics of conversation. Seeing Jing Jing had returned with a man on her side, Rica did not hesitate to get the opportunity to call her.


    "I could not say I know him. But, he is a frat leader," Maxwell answered right away.


    "A frat leader?! Then, Jing Jing is involved in a fraternity?" Rica could not help but voice out her assumption.


    But, Maxwell only shook his head. "Jing did not confirm any relationship with the man, hon. She only told us that they work under the same boss. So, it''s hard to tell if she is involved in a fraternity."


    In his mind, being involved in a fraternity would never be that simple. Much more if it was the Double Sigma Fraternity.


    "Ahh.. that''s right. But, I saw that Jing Jing was holding the man and pulling him when they were walking. That is rather close. I have never seen Jing Jing acting so close with another man. Not even to that ex of hers!" Rica defended and looked Maxwell in the eye. The man only smiled at her and did not dwell on the topic.


    On the other side, Jing Jing marched her way towards the kitchen area, expecting to see Sofia there. But the place was empty. Not even a single staff was there.


    Danny also arrived after a while and realized the same thing as her. "Miss Sofia said that she would discuss the parking space once we return. But, she is not here?" he mumbled.


    "Maybe your brother knows where she went?" Jing Jing suggested and quickly walked back to the front desk.


    Danny did not follow her anymore. The man went to the back door and visited the garden that had just made.


    "Derek, did Miss Sofia tell where she would go?" Jing Jing casually asked the man that was leisurely sitting in front of his computer.


    "Ms. Jing Jing, is something wrong?" Danny inquired back.


    "Nothing''s wrong. I just have a few things to speak with Miss Sofia," Jing Jing answered with an expectant gaze in her eyes.


    "Ohh... I was busy here earlier. She didn''t tell me anything. But, I saw her go on the second floor, Maybe she want to survey the decoration for the wedding?" Derek informed her.


    "Ohh.. right!" Jing Jing smiled. "Only Miss Sofia can be this thoughtful and thorough with everything!" she added.


    Admittedly, Jing Jing was too focused on their dining business and dealing with the reservation of their customers. She had forgotten that there was another important business that was happening on the second floor.


    "Miss Sofia really knows how to manage everything! At such young age, she is very capable of multi-tasking! Even I, with my age and experience in the real world...  am not a match of her ability!" Jing Jing whispered her admiration why started walking to the stairs leading to the second floor.


    When Jing Jing reached the location, she paused in complete awe. The place looked so ethereal. The entire place was decorated with flowers and ribbons.


    And when she looked closely, she saw that the flowers that the decorators used were in fact... real!


    "WOW! What an enchanted theme!" Jing Jing''s eyes sparkled at the scene. She watched while Sofia was helping others to put another dozen of flowers on the corners of the place.


    But, after hearing her voice, Sofia looked up to see her and smiled, "Sister Jing, you are back! How is it?"


    "Miss Sofia, it''s strange but I did not find any property that is for sale around here! But, I have another area. My friend, Maxwell, if you remember him? He told me to make a parking space underneath," Jing Jing stated.


    "Maxwell gave you an idea on how to deal with the parking space?" Sofia curiously asked while the appearance of the man crossed her mind.