The echoes of cheering and laughter faded as Kaiza and his classmates stepped out of the gaming lounge, their spirits still soaring from their hard-earned victory. The cool evening air wrapped around them, a refreshing contrast to the heated energy of the match. Neon signs from nearby shops illuminated the dimly lit streets, casting shifting shadows as the group strolled along.
Udo nudged Kaiza's shoulder, curiosity gleaming in his eyes.
Udo: Hey, Kaiza. How did you come up with that strategy back there? It was… unexpected.
Kaiza smirked, shoving his hands into his pockets.
Kaiza: Oh, that? Just something I've been experimenting with.
What Kaiza didn't say—and what even he barely realized—was how much his rank set him apart. His strategies weren't revolutionary, but they thrived on one simple truth: predictability. In lower-ranked games, players prioritized flashy kills over teamwork, clashing recklessly without considering the bigger picture.
----
Kaiza's rank, though unspoken, gave him an edge. He understood that in lower elo, coordination often disintegrated into chaos. Players focused on personal glory rather than objectives, leaving openings for unconventional picks to shine. His decision to pick Nightshade Assassin had leveraged this dynamic—an assassin thrived in disorganized clashes.
The simplicity of his plan disguised its brilliance: let the enemy overextend, capitalize on their lack of discipline, and turn their arrogance into a weapon.
Udo: I see. Well, it's a good strat. Worked like a charm tonight.
Kaiza shrugged, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
Their walk led them to a nearby convenience store, its fluorescent lights casting a stark glow onto the sidewalk. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of instant noodles, fried snacks, and sugary drinks. Each member of the group grabbed their favorites before settling into a corner table.
The conversation shifted to the game, laughter erupting as they recounted key moments. Udo imitated Bry's frantic ult, while Jay exaggerated his tank's heroics. Kaiza found himself smiling along but felt a faint twinge of dissatisfaction.
Kaiza: (thinking) Why does it feel like something's missing?
As the group finished their snacks, they dispersed, each heading home with high spirits. Kaiza lingered for a moment, gazing down the quiet street before starting his walk.
Kaiza's home greeted him with its usual stillness. Tossing his bag onto the floor, he collapsed onto his bed, scrolling idly through his phone. A thought struck him, and he opened his map app.
Kaiza: I should find a net café. Borrowing time at friends' setups isn't cutting it.
To his surprise, a result popped up just a few blocks away: MnM Gaming Café.
Kaiza: No way. That close? How did I never notice this?
Excitement bubbled in his chest. He grabbed his wallet and jacket, the promise of a proper gaming space too tempting to resist.
---
MnM Café
The café's neon sign flickered softly in the night: MnM Gaming Café. The hum of activity spilled out into the quiet street, drawing Kaiza inside. He stepped through the door and was immediately struck by the vibrant energy.
Rows of sleek PCs lined the room, their monitors glowing with vibrant colors. The air buzzed with the sound of rapid keystrokes, occasional bursts of laughter, and heated discussions. But what truly caught Kaiza's eye was the centerpiece—a stage-like arena bathed in neon light. Two players were locked in an intense match of Dominion, their every move scrutinized by an eager crowd.
Kaiza: (whispering) What is this place?
Approaching the counter, Kaiza was greeted by a friendly staff member, a headset slung casually around his neck.
Staff: First time here?
Kaiza: Yeah. What's that stage for?
The staff followed Kaiza's gaze to the arena.
Staff: Oh, that? It's where we hold bet matches, tournaments, and special events.
Kaiza: Bet matches?
Staff: Yeah, but only high-rank players get to play there. They scout newcomers before letting anyone in.
Kaiza nodded, his gaze lingering on the stage.
Kaiza: So, only the best can play there.
Staff: Exactly. It's like a rite of passage.
The words lit a spark within Kaiza. This wasn't just a café—it was a proving ground. He couldn't help but wonder what it would take to earn a spot on that stage.
Directed to a station near the back, Kaiza moved through the café. As he passed the arena, a lone figure seated nearby caught his attention. The player exuded an air of quiet confidence, their presence commanding attention without a word.
Kaiza froze for a moment as their eyes met. There was no hostility, only a quiet intensity. It was as if the player was assessing him, and Kaiza couldn't help but feel the weight of the gaze.
Kaiza: (thinking) Who is this guy?
He leaned toward the staff, curiosity getting the better of him.
Kaiza: Hey, who's that by the arena?
The staff member glanced over and smiled knowingly.
Staff: That's Yuki. He's the strongest player at MnM.
Kaiza's eyes narrowed slightly as he looked back at Yuki. The name alone carried weight, but the quiet authority in Yuki's demeanor spoke volumes. This was someone who dominated the café's competitive scene, someone who understood the game on a deeper level.
For a moment, neither of them moved. Their eyes met once more, and though no words were exchanged, the challenge was clear. It wasn't arrogance or animosity—just mutual recognition.
Kaiza: (thinking) So, that's Yuki. Let's see what it takes to get on that stage.
With a small smirk, Kaiza turned away, heading to his station. The faint hum of excitement stirred within him, the prospect of proving himself in this new arena filling him with anticipation.