Chapter 19: Gamer's Trial with a Twist
The biting cold wind of the Misty Mountains brushed against Hiroto's face as he gazed upon a spectacle that seemed eerily familiar. At the peak stood a vast, icy gaming board, a real-life replica of "Conquest of Valeria." His heart leapt in recognition and nostalgia. "This looks like 'Conquest of Valeria,'" he exclaimed, "The game I used to play all night with... well, a friend."
Luna, arching a brow teasingly, smirked, "A friend or a special friend?"
Hiroto's face reddened, "She was a... close friend. And for the record, I always let her win."
Riku chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes, "Oh, the perfect gentleman gamer. Rare breed you are."
The arrival of the icy apparitions snapped Hiroto back to the present. One of them bore a striking resemblance to the girl from his past, which only flustered him further. Luna, who had a knack for picking up on such things, leaned in and teased, "Don't let your 'girlfriend' beat you now."
Throughout the trial, it was evident Hiroto's memories and feelings interfered with his gaming strategy. Every time his piece clashed with the apparition resembling his old crush, he'd hesitate, earning more giggles from Luna and playful jabs from Riku.
As the game intensified, the apparitions took on more distinct personalities, mimicking Hiroto's own past gaming expressions, from his frustrated groans to his victory dances. Luna, trying hard to stifle her laughter, commented, "Seems like you've met your match. Or should I say, your reflection?"
While Hiroto grappled with the game, the romantic tension between him and Luna subtly bloomed. Luna's power over the winds wasn't just for playful teasing. At a crucial moment, when Hiroto's determination wavered, she sent a gentle, warm breeze his way, their fingers briefly intertwining. The fleeting touch sent a jolt of energy through Hiroto, emboldening him.
Riku, ever observant, leaned in and whispered in Hiroto's ear, "She believes in you, and not just in the game. Noticed the blush on her cheeks yet?"
Hiroto grinned, his spirit rekindled. With newfound determination and the teasing encouragement from his friends, he crafted a brilliant strategy. The game concluded with his victory, the icy board shattering to reveal the next path of their journey.
Riku, clapping Hiroto on the back, remarked, "Never took you for a romantic strategist."
Luna, her face a shade of pink, murmured, "Neither did I."
Hiroto, ever the modest victor, replied, "Well, every game needs a twist, doesn't it?"