Today is the most important day for the students of Aika High. Yes , Today is the day of the Starting Of The Strategic Showdown. Kenzo woke up at around 6 am and went to take a bath to clear himself of the past days' turmoil. After taking a bath , he got ready for the day. He wore his school uniform and was curious for the matches of today. It was already 7 :15 am by the time he got ready to leave the house.
He set out on the path to the school which was not too far from his apartment. He was enjoying the walk which was full of fresh and cold air. By the time , he reached the school's entrance gate , there was much more energy among the students than before. He quickly made his way to the classroom where he found students chatting with each other about the upcoming matches. He sat on his seat. He was thinking about the upcoming tournament or more like whom he will be facing ? It was already 8 : 30 am. Mrs. Suzune Nakamura entered the class with an unusual cheerful and happy expression.
" So have you guys decided on whom to vote ? " Said Mrs. Suzune
" Well, sensei Among us Sato-San is the best player if chess " said Ken with a cheerful smile
" You could say that " Suzune said " Ayumi aced the chess section."
" You are exaggerating my skills …." Ayumi Sato who had black long hair and brown iris said with blush visible on her cheeks.
" We should vote for her " Another girl named Nina Makishima who was beautiful, sharp and also the class president said with a sense of appreciation for Ayumi " She's our best bet."
" The time for vote will start in 15 minutes. The closer time is 9 : 30 am. " Suzune said while explaining about the procedures " to vote , open the school website in your Phone and login with your enrollment number and password. Then under section Strategic Showdown. You will get 4 class , choose your own class and then select the name of the student you're going to vote. Student with majority of the votes will be selected for the next match which Is scheduled at 11 am in the Auditiorium no.3"
" Ok , guys Let's vote for Sato-San " Nina encourage everyone who was there to vote for Ayumi.
Everyone cheered on Ayumi for the upcoming match as it was decided she will be playing in the mext match vs Class 1-A.
Kenzo had been carefully listening to all of their conversation but didn't intervene. He wasn't interested to participate in this conversation. He was curious to see the skills of Ayumi. He was fascinated by the popularity of Ayumi who won the votes without much effort.
The time for the votes started and everyone gave vote. Now , It was left to see who will be the opponent of Ayumi today. The awaited time was near and every students of class 1-B moved to the Auditiorium no.3. Kenzo was with Makoto while going to the Auditiorium. Upon reaching , Kenzo was amazed by the preparations. There was a big drone which was hovering over the chess board which was placed in the middle. The purpose of the drone was to create the holographic representation of the board so it would be visible to everyone. There were cameras placed along the lining of the stage so that the participants' facial expressions could be seen by others. The area was fenced and audience section was well in condition. The capacity of the auditorium was 1400 students. Kenzo and Makoto took the first row and sat next to each other.
" What do you think about this match, Kenzo ? " Ken asked with a faint sigh from the rushed walking.
" Nothing much , just curious to see the skills of the players" He replied with a normal expression.
" Yeah " He sneered at his reply " Kenzo , I think Sato will win since she's the best "
" Let's see " Kenzo concluded with a blank face.
At the same time , a beautiful girl dressed in all black entered the stage. She was beautiful and elegant. The crowd welcomed her with a huge round of applause.
" Welcome , everyone. My name is Takahashi Rina and I am your beautiful host for the today's match between Class 1-A and 1-B. "
The crowd once again erupted into cheers for The host. It was already 10 : 45 am. The arbitrators entered the stage.
" Let's see who is the participant from Class 1-A " Rina pointed towards the last television screen. The names shuffled and finally the name which popped up was Izumi Aiko. " It's Aiko Izumi with all 50 votes. Let's welcome her " She asked everyone to give a huge round of applause for Izumi Aiko and crowd started cheering for Izumi.
Kenzo looked at Izumi and found she was completely different from the time he last saw her. She was beautiful and popular student of the school. He looked forward to her match and to observe her skills from his own eyes.
" Now let's see who will be facing Aiko Izumi" Rina again pointed towards the television screen and the crowd seemed to wait for the name to pop up. Although Kenzo already knew who will be participating today.
" It's Sato Ayumi with 46 votes , let's welcome her with huge round of applause." She welcomed Ayumi who was looking confident and excited for her match. On the other hand , Izumi was relaxed and easygoing about the match.
" Let's have a good match Aiko-San " Ayumi said to Izumi and offered a handshake. Izumi accepted the handshake as a formality. " Yeah , Good Luck Sato-San " She replied wishing her luck.
"Our players have exchanged greetings and its time for the match to be start " Rina said and crowd had started cheering for the two. Even though Izumi was much popular , Ayumi also had high popularity.
The arbiters came near the stage and declared that Izumi will be playing White and Ayumi will be playing Black. The time limit for each player was 40 minutes and there was no time increments rule like The Fischer Rule. Both players had a sheet prepared where they would fill the moves they played for analysis by the Members of Chess Club. The analysis was necessary for the players as it would help them look into their strengths , weaknesses and the area for improvement.
" It will be a tough one for Sato-San " Ken said with a tensed expression upon realizing that the opponent's skills were on the same level as hers or even more.
" Well , It will be a great match from the perspective of The tournament " Kenzo remarked about the match. It was certain that match was not going to boring compared to other matches. Both players were equal In terms of skills and were confident in their own abilities.
Let's see who will be winning today…
Kenzo was neutral and was not supporting any one player. He just wanted to see a good chess match. But Ken was really cheering for Ayumi since both of them were of the same class.
The arbitrators pressed the clock and Izumi , being white , played first.
The Scene of The Chess Match
The auditorium was silent with anticipation as Izumi made her first move, confidently advancing her king's pawn two squares forward to e4. The classic opening was a clear indication of her intent to control the center of the board right from the start.
Ayumi , unperturbed, responded with e5, mirroring Izumi's move. The symmetry of the position suggested that both players were preparing for a standard opening, but the audience knew that Ayumi's reputation for unconventional sacrifices could lead to an unexpected twist at any moment.
Izumi continued with Nf3, developing her knight to attack Ayumi's e5 pawn and to prepare for further central control. Ayumi mirrored again with Nc6, reinforcing her e5 pawn and preparing to develop her pieces. The audience watched intently, aware that these initial moves were building up to a more complex battle.
The game progressed into the Ruy-Lopez opening, with Izumi's bishop moving to b5, applying pressure on Ayumi's knight at c6. Ayumi calmly played a6, prompting Izumi to decide whether to exchange the bishop for the knight or retreat.
Izumi chose to retreat her bishop to a4, maintaining the tension and keeping Ayumi guessing about her next move. Ayumi played Nf6, attacking Izumi's e4 pawn and continuing her development.
Izumi castled kingside, securing her king and bringing her rook into play. Ayumi responded by castling kingside as well, both players now ready for the middle game.
The crowd watched as the two players navigated through the complexities of the Ruy-Lopez. Izumi's moves were precise and calculated, each one contributing to a larger strategy. Ayumi, on the other hand, played with a certain flair, her unconventional style keeping Izumi on her toes.
The tension in the auditorium grew as the game progressed. The clock was ticking, and each move was critical. Izumi played c3, preparing to push d4 and challenge Ayumi's central control. Ayumi, anticipating this, moved her rook to e8, reinforcing her position and preparing for an eventual opening of the center.
Izumi pushed d4, as expected, and Ayumi captured the pawn with exd4. Izumi recaptured with her knight, and the tension in the center increased. Ayumi played Nxe4, initiating a tactical sequence. Izumi responded with Re1, pinning Ayumi's knight to her king and increasing the pressure.
Ayumi remained calm and played Nd6, counterattacking Izumi's bishop on b5 and breaking the pin. Izumi captured Ayumi's knight with her bishop, and Ayumi recaptured with her b-pawn, opening up the b-file for her rook.
The middle game had begun in earnest, and both players were deep in thought, analyzing the complex position on the board. The crowd could feel the intensity of the match, each move bringing the game closer to a climax.
Izumi played Qd3, eyeing Ayumi's knight on e4 and preparing for potential tactics involving her queen and rook. Ayumi, seeing an opportunity, played Qf6, threatening a devastating checkmate on f2 if Izumi wasn't careful.
Izumi saw the threat and immediately played Be3, blocking the potential checkmate and developing her piece. The position was tense, and both players were fully engaged in the intricate dance of high-level chess.
Ayumi then played a move that caught everyone off guard. She moved her knight from e4 to g3, sacrificing it for a pawn with the aim of launching a sudden and fierce attack. The crowd gasped at the audacity of the move.
Izumi, undeterred, captured the knight with her h-pawn. This opened the h-file and weakened her kingside, but Izumi's experience told her that she could navigate the complexities that lay ahead.
Ayumi quickly followed up with Qh6, her queen swiftly moving to eye the vulnerable h2 pawn and creating threats of a potential mate. The audience held their breath, sensing the critical moment in the game.
Izumi, maintaining her composure, played Kf1, moving her king to a slightly safer position and freeing up her g1 square for defensive maneuvers. Ayumi pressed on with Qh2, directly threatening Izumi's rook and putting significant pressure on her position.
Izumi responded with Ke2, moving her king to evade immediate threats and maintain the defense of her rook. Ayumi captured the g2 pawn with Qxg2, now threatening a devastating attack with her queen and rook.
Izumi realized she had to act quickly to neutralize Ayumi's attack. She played Qf1, attempting to exchange queens and reduce the attacking potential. Ayumi responded with Qe4+, checking Izumi's king and keeping the pressure high.
Izumi moved her king to d2, seeking shelter from the relentless attack. Ayumi continued with Qd4+, another check, exploiting the open lines and keeping Izumi's king on the run. Izumi played Ke1, trying to find a safe haven and regroup her forces.
Ayumi brought her rook into the attack with Rae8, preparing for a decisive blow. But Izumi, seeing through Ayumi's plans, played Qd3, offering a queen exchange to neutralize the attack. Ayumi, realizing that the exchange would significantly diminish her attacking chances, declined by moving her queen back to g4, trying to maintain pressure.
Izumi then played Qf3, forcing the exchange of queens, simplifying the position and transitioning to a more manageable endgame. Ayumi, seeing no better option, exchanged queens with Qxf3, and Izumi recaptured with gxf3, now focusing on her material advantage and better position.
With the queens exchanged and her king safely tucked away, Izumi began to methodically convert her advantage. She maneuvered her pieces with precision, exploiting the open files and weaknesses in Ayumi's position. The final moves showcased Izumi's superior technique:
1. Rxe8+ Kxe8
2. Re1+ Kd7
3. Rd1 Kc6
Izumi brought her rook and king into optimal squares, pushing her advantage and gradually capturing Ayumi's pawns. Realizing the futility of further resistance, Ayumi extended her hand in resignation, acknowledging Izumi's superior play and the inevitability of her loss.
The auditorium erupted in applause, recognizing the incredible battle they had just witnessed. Izumi's ability to see through Ayumi's tricks and her flawless execution in the endgame secured her a memorable victory. Ayumi's daring sacrifice and brilliant follow-up had made the match thrilling, but it was Izumi's calm precision that ultimately prevailed.
Izumi and Ayumi stood up from their chairs, their expressions reflecting the respect they had for each other's abilities.
Ayumi extended her hand, a genuine smile on her face. "Congratulations, Aiko-san. That was an incredible game."
Izumi took Ayumi's hand and shook it firmly, her own smile matching Ayumi's. "Thank you, Sato-san. Your sacrifice was brilliant. You really had me thinking there for a while."
Ayumi laughed softly, the tension of the match giving way to camaraderie. "I hoped it would catch you off guard. You handled it perfectly, though. I still have a lot to learn."
Izumi shook her head. "Don't sell yourself short. Your creativity and boldness are remarkable. It was an honor to play against you."
Ayumi's eyes sparkled with determination. "I'll keep working on my game. Next time, I'll be even more prepared."
Izumi nodded appreciatively. "I look forward to our next match. It's players like you who make this game so exciting."
As they turned to leave the stage, Ayumi glanced back at the board one last time. "By the way, that move with your queen exchange—it was genius. I didn't see it coming."
Izumi smiled modestly. "I had to find a way to neutralize your attack. Your aggressive playstyle really pushed me to my limits."
Ayumi sighed, but it was a contented sigh, one of a player who had given her all. "Well, I suppose it's back to the drawing board for me. But I'll be ready next time."
Izumi gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "You're a formidable opponent, Ayumi. Never forget that."
Ayumi was stunned by her gesture and the way she addressed her just now.
" Ayumi---" She paused with blush on her cheeks.
" I..I mean Sato " Izumi stammered , her voice trembling slightly.
" Its okay , but can I use your….first name ? " Ayumi chuckled at her stammering.
" Sure , feel free Ayumi " This time she was more confident in using her first name.
" Thanks for your worries, Izumi " Ayumi was content that her opponent had come closer to her.
" Bye , take care " Izumi uttered her final words.
With those final words, the two parted ways, each reflecting on the match they had just played and the bond that was formed. The audience continued to applaud, celebrating not just the victory, but the incredible display of skill and sportsmanship they had witnessed.
She is completely different on the board compared to the last time I saw her. Skilled at seeing through her opponent's upcoming move. If she hadn't anticipated it , she might have lost to the knight sacrifice. Kenzo analysed Izumi's skills and it was a victory thanks to her anticipation. It's true that she is completely different. On the board she plays like a queen who sees through others' weaknesses.
As Izumi and Ayumi left the stage, Kenzo and his classmates joined in the applause, their faces reflecting a mix of admiration and excitement. Kenzo, who had been watching intently throughout the match, felt a surge of inspiration. He turned to Ken, who was still clapping enthusiastically.
"That was an amazing game," Kenzo said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "Izumi's precision and Ayumi's boldness made it unforgettable."
Ken nodded vigorously. "Absolutely. I didn't expect Ayumi to make such a daring sacrifice. It was thrilling to watch."
As the applause died down and the students began to leave the auditorium, they decided to head into the classroom. Although the game was an entertaining one but from 1-B's perspective, it was a loss of 2 point. But no one really mind it , everyone were just pleased to see that Their Class performed good against the best Class of the first years.
They entered into the classroom where everyone was praising Ayumi for playing really well. Suzune also had a cheerful smile on her face from the fact that her student performed really well.
" You played well , Ayumi " Suzune said " Keep that performance up , you will blossom into a great player "
Ayumi was caught off guard not by the words but from the fact that it was coming from Suzune itself.
" Thanks , sensei " Ayumi replied with widened eyes and red cheeks " It means a lot."
The conversation and the praising continued. The next match was between Class 1-C and 1-D. The match was scheduled at 3 in the evening but there were 1 and a half hours left. Kenzo thought of returning to his apartment since the match he waited for was done. At 2 pm Suzune left the classroom due to her works. The students were free to return to their home or to stay to watch the upcoming match. Kenzo took his things and headed towards the school entrance. While he was returning, his eyes caught Izumi who was in her class surrounded by a circle of girls. She was laughing and talking peacefully which made him feel content since past few days had been tough for her. But as his eyes left hers , she peeked at him as she had noticed him glancing at her with a content face. She gave a warm smile. Kenzo was caught offguard by her gesture but he didn't think much of it.
Kenzo returned to his apartment with a sense of satisfaction, reflecting on the intense match he had just witnessed. The memory of Ayumi's bold sacrifice and Izumi's calm precision lingered in his mind. The walk back was peaceful, with the afternoon sun casting a warm glow on the streets.
Once he arrived home, Kenzo sat at his desk, staring out the window. His mind was filled with thoughts of the Strategic Showdown and what lay ahead. There was a growing anticipation for the upcoming matches and the potential challenges they would bring.
As the clock ticked closer to 3 PM, Kenzo's phone buzzed with a message from Ken.
Ken: "Hey Kenzo, are you coming back for the 1-C vs. 1-D match? It's starting soon."
Kenzo replied quickly.
Kenzo: "I'll watch the highlights later. Need some time to rest."
He placed his phone down and leaned back in his chair, contemplating the day's events.
Kenzo spent the next few hours relaxing, allowing himself to unwind from the excitement and tension of the morning's match. As he lay on his bed, his thoughts drifted to the upcoming rounds of the Strategic Showdown. He knew that each match would only become more challenging and that he and his classmates would need to prepare rigorously.
The sound of his phone buzzing brought him back to reality. It was another message from Ken.
Ken: "You missed a great match! 1-C won, but it was really close this time."
Kenzo : "Who were the players ? "
Ken : "From 1-C , it was Sayaka Emi while from 1-D , it was Kimura Yuto. They player really well but Emi was a step ahead."
Kenzo was puzzled when he read Emi's name , he had met her earlier and helped her with a puzzle in the library.
Kenzo : "Thanks , Ken I will see you tomorrow"
Ken : " Bye , bye Take care"
Kenzo smiled, feeling a mix of relief and determination. He was glad for the break but also knew he needed to stay sharp for the future battles.
As the evening approached, Kenzo decided to review some advanced strategies and analyze previous matches. The memory of Izumi and Ayumi's game played in his mind, serving as a source of inspiration and motivation.
He sat at his desk, opened his computer, and began practicing different openings and endgames, determined to refine his skills. His usual laziness was transformed into a determination even though there was nothing much for him to learn.
The day was full of excitement and introspection, but Kenzo felt more prepared than ever for the challenges ahead. With a deep breath, he looked forward to the next round of the Strategic Showdown, ready to face whatever came his way.